Dave, the one thing that you have not tried is what is most likely to help you. You should see a psychotherapist.
The loss is only part of the problem. Normal
grief will take care of that in time, no matter how important your friend was to your life. Its what this means to you that makes the difference in terms of how long the
grief goes on. This requires professional help...its very difficult for you to figure it out on your own.
If you can't afford a therapist now, or are reluctant to go at this time, go to my Masteringstress program and choose the session that deals with loss and
grief, and ask for a review by me....I may be able to get your started in the right direction.
I am the one who had a post about losing my Dad and you posted to me earlier. I, too, have trouble sleeping and when I lay down at night, I am constantly aware of my heartbeat and just sit there and listen to it! I still have a fear of dying in my sleep, just like my Dad did, and I have been going to a grief counselor, which has helped very much. I would agree with the doctor and please see a psychotherapist...it is worth going for a good night's sleep! I still take a prescription sleep aid for now, but the counseling has made me feel much better :)
Kristy
kcossich