Ever since experiencing a terrifying sleep paralysis incident a few years ago, I've had insomnia. The only thing that's prevented it is sleeping pills like zzzquil. I've tried to wean myself off of them, but then I start getting the paralysis again, and wake up 4 to 5 times a night. We have to take care of my young stepdaughter every second weekend now, so I'm realizing that taking sleeping pills is dangerous now. My stepdaughter has an ear infection right now, and supposedly was up throwing up last night. I took a sleeping pill last night. She said I woke up, looked at her, but then fell down, right back to sleep. I know I should probably go to the doctor about my insomnia, and maybe start doing natural things like exercising, just wondering how common this is?