How do you deal with not being able to sleep?

[HelenaFitbit]

I sleep less than 5 hours each day... make that 3 (usually 2 and some). I know it's a really bad thing and I should be getting a lot more sleep than what I'm getting; but I can't seem to wind down.  All of a sudden is 11pm and I'm still due to wake up at 2.30am.

Then I end up grumpy, drinking more coffee and sweets than I should; then I aim to go to bed early the next day; so I start prepping up my things and... 11pm hits again. I really wish I was kidding: 

So I really need your help; what are the best tips on how to wind down for bed? Should I take a sleeping pill to (kind of) force myself to sleep? I've found a couple tips on a Buzzfeed article and I might try some of them (the least embarrassing though) . Tell me what you think of these: 

1. Imagine that you are powering down your body, part by part.
2. Try a structured breathing technique to help you relax.
3. Listen to audiobook versions of childhood favorites.
4. Do something creative like doodling, coloring, or journaling.
5. Keep a notepad by your bed to jot down repetitive thoughts.

 What are your tips for those times you can't fall asleep?

[SunsetRunner]

Stop drinking coffee or at least lower your consumption of caffinated drinks and don't drink it in the evening. Ever since I stopped drinking caffinated drinks and started eating better it only takes me a few minutes to fall asleep.

[Mamabear0314]

I have amazon music so I downloaded "Weightless" by Marconi Union. If I can't sleep I just put that on repeat, about as loud as white noise. It helps a lot. On bad nights I take Advil PM.

[HelenaFitbit]

@SunsetRunner I've stopped taking caffeine after 5pm; I take some warm milk or herbal tea. 

@Mamabear0314 I'll search that one, thank you!

I've noticed this week that packing my things and laying out my clothes for the next day has been giving me some peace of mind and I get to bed faster. A couple nights the 11pm mark was hit but I'm happy to say that it was not every day.