I have also always had problems getting to sleep. Yes, Xanax works very well for me for sleep and for stopping anxiety attacks, but I also choose not to become dependent on meds. However, there are times when your health and the lack of sleep necessitates taking something. My doctor suggested something called "mirtazepine" (sp?) which is actually an older anti-depressant. But it is not a narcotic or habit forming like Xanax nor is it like Ambien since it is in the anti-depressant class of meds.
I'm only in week 2 of the program, but have already found that the relaxation tape makes me sleepy if I listen to it right before bed. There are also lots of other tapes that are more geared to sleeping, some you can download from iTunes. Let me know if you need some names of them and I'll send.
Sleepless in California-
Boy oh boy do I know what you are going through with the no sleep thing...ever it seems!What really adds to the anxiety of insomnia is my boyfriend really gives me the guilt trip if I don't go to bed at the same time he does....which usually ends with me just not going to bed, and another night{s} of anxiety ridden insomnia and worrys.I always say though that it will get better...it has to!