Can't stay asleep

[kasey0118]

I have trouble falling asleep ( takes from 1-3 hours nightly) irregardless of time I go to bed, I don't fall asleep till at least 1:00 a.m.  I then wake up at about 3-4:00 a.m, try to get back to sleep, usually takes 1 hour or so, to wake up at 6-7:00 a.m. to go to work. This has been happening for years, not a new thing..... I am not tired per say, or if I do feel tired, I still can't sleep or nap.  I am overweight, have high blood presssure, was just srated on Cholestrol Meds and even though not tired...no desire or energy to do anything after work.  My legs ( knees down) ache all the time.  I have tried to loose weight, may manage to get 20-30 lbs off, doesn't make a difference.  I have heard that sleep disorders can cause weight gain, I am wondering if this has played any part in the in-ability to loose weight.  I am concerned as I don't wan to be on meds the rest of my life, I have 3 kids I want to be around for.  

Any recommedations for sleeping?  I am very hestitant to start drugs, don't want to depend upon them for falling/staying asleep.

[Connie 1]

more exercise can help, say, 30 minutes a day of walking or more.  that can make you tired enough to get through the night, and could help with the weight too!

[Mother of bailey]

I have the same prob u do...im also over weight and have high bp...I dont know what to do eather.my dr put me on a sleeping pill but i havent took it..i dont want to...The dr seems to think alot of the prob is stress....so maby if u can take away a little stress it might help....easer said then done i know....well sorry i couldent be more help.......Valerie