Insomnia for most of us is an annoying condition that springs up out of nowhere, lasts for a couple of days, and then goes away all by itself -- an inevitable by-product of our often busy and stressful lives.

Sometimes, however, it’s more troublesome and needs to be addressed.

This article lists seven common sense solutions to help combat insomnia, and reduce the chances of suffering from it again in the future.

1. Time to worry. The most common cause of insomnia is worry. Our finances, relationships, children, and careers, all fight for our attention and keep us awake at night. One way past this is to create a ‘worry-time’ -- 15mins during each day when you do nothing except worry and make plans to sort out any troubles. Then the next time a problem rears it's ugly head when you're trying to sleep, promise that you’ll address it during your ‘worry- time‘. Your mind will soon become accustomed to the routine, making it easier for you to get some rest.
2. Limit caffeine! We all like a nice cup of tea, coffee or a soft drink, but often forget they can act as stimulants and therefore disturb our sleep. So try to moderate them in the afternoon and especially before bedtime.
3. A place of peace. Keep televisions and radios out of the bedroom; or at least don’t turn them on before trying to sleep. The bedroom should be a place of recuperation away from the hustle and bustle of everyday life - It’s probably the only room in the house where the hectic world can be left behind for a few hours. So do yourself a favour and leave the televisions and radios in the living room where they belong.
4. Replace you bedding Has your bedding become a little old and dreary; your pillow somewhat flat and misshapen? If so, they could well be the cause of your insomnia. Remember, your bed should be a place of recuperation-- not somewhere to toss and turn all night trying to get comfortable. So treat yourself to some cheerful new bedding. You’re sure to feel the benefit.
5. Relax. Avoid becoming agitated before retiring otherwise you'll simply lie awake all night fretting. Listen to calming music, read a nice book, or take a warm bath to prepare yourself first. Reading a few good jokes can also help. They'll lighten your mood and reduce any apprehension.
6. Go to bed at set times. If you keep irregular sleeping hours, your body clock is thrown into disarray. So adopt the good habit of going to bed at set times on a regular basis. Your body will appreciate the routine and fall into line more easily.
7. Wake up early. Get up early every morning even though you’ve slept poorly and feel exhausted. This is easier said than done, of course, especially after going to work all week, but staying in bed because you’re just too tired to get up will only strengthen your cycle of insomnia. So despite feeling weary, do your very best to rise early every day. You’ll no doubt feel rotten for a while, but it’ll be worth it in the end.
8. Seek medical advice. For most people, insomnia is a bothersome condition that seemingly comes and goes, apparently for no reason at all, and is therefore nothing to be overly concerned about. However, if you’re suffering to the extent that it’s seriously affecting the quality your life, it's advisable to visit your local doctor or other medical professional for a check up.

There you have them -- Seven common sense solutions for a better night’s sleep.