Need advice on how to sleep in dorm room with noises and some light...I've tried everything..?

Question

I live in a dorm room, with 2 other roommates. Since the beginning of last semester, I have had problems with sleeping. They don't seem to be getting extremely worse, bbut everything I try does not seem to make them better. Let me explain the situation in my dorm room. Like I said, 3 people. Very small room. There are 2 lights, one overhead light, and one light over the sick and counter. These lights stay off at night once I go to sleep, but one of my roommates has a flourescent desk lamp that seems to light up the room like it is world war 3. He is also not the quietest roommate in the world. He tends to watch TV, albeit at a low volume, long after I go to bed.I use a face mask which I have purchased at Bed, bath and Beyond, and ear plugs, but they both don't seem to work. Light seeps in through mynose bridge, and the ear plugs only offer some relief. I can't seem to fall asleep. Does anyone have any suggestions? Anything at all? I am running out of ideas, and becoming sleep deprived

Also, I have already gone to the RA and tried to work something out, and he has tried to find us a solution that would benefit both of us, but it seems like I am getting the short end of the deal. Are there any suggestions? Relaxation techniques? Sleep masks that do not allow light to seep thru? I am a person who values ad needs his sleep, and this is seriously affecting my mental health. I am just about hating College because of it.

Answer 1

I used to work nights in a noisy neighborhood (ALL my neighbors had Harleys and seemed to be unemployed and couldn't seem to ever tune their bikes correctly). I got a THICK (about 3/4" memory foam) padded sleep mask at Brookstone that had speakers built in and a plug to insert an iPod, CD player or other peripheral and adapted to fit any small headphone jack. It wrapped around my whole head and cost about $37. I also have insomnia. What works best for me is to go to bed at the same time every night, wake up at the same time every morning and avoid ALL beverages for about 3 hours before bed time. Being extremely sensitive to light, I also sleep with a pillow over my head/face, even with the sleep mask on. Sometimes, in the event of no sleep, I get up and take a Benedril or generic equivalent (25mg) over-the-counter allergy aid. Most doctors will tell you to try this if you have insomnia. It knocks you out. Don't take more than 1 unless you want a hangover effect (and I am 6'4", 220 and it messes me up).

Answer 2

You are being too inconsistent! That pup has no idea where she's supposed to be. You need to pick one place and stick with it, whether it's the kennel or your bed. Honestly, I don't think she would bark for that many nights in a row in a crate. You could try keeping her up during the day, so she will be tired at night. She is stressed, think of all the changes she's been through in the last few days. Keep her crate away from the outside walls, so she's not right next to the neighbours. Having a puppy is just like having a human baby, you will lose some sleep, sadly lol. Just be patient, and give her some more time. And stay consistent

Answer 3

I second the fan option. It creates a pleased white noise that should drown out almost anything. For the light I would try suggesting a black light bulb. Still lights the room, a little, but is not oppressive at all.

Third option, really take this up the chain of command. If the RA won't help go above them to the hall supervisor or the student housing manager. You don't have to live with conditions like that.

Answer 4

Wow! Sounds like a problem. First talk to your roommate because they should be more considerate. Ask them if they are going to study at night to either go to the lounge, which I hope you have so you don't have to have any light. Also, if they are going to watch t.v. watch it low enough for your ear plug to block out the sound. When living with a roommate, there has got to be some give and take. Sounds like it this isn't working talk to your roommate and if that doesn't work see if you can get a new roommate or your own room.

Answer 5

honestly i would recommend white noise like a fan but that would affect your roommates. If the light bothers you that much get a sleep mask that goes over your eyes. If it's the noise, earplugs. I slept with earplugs for 5 years of college bc of my living siutaion and it worked wonders. the best ones are in the sporting goods section, like at wal-mart. the little spongey ones you smash and put in your ear and then they expand to block out noise. they use them for shooting ranges and what not.

Answer 6

Headphones and a facemask to cover the light

Answer 7

Quit being a punk. Get up and tell him or her that you have a problem. Put up a sheet or something.

Answer 8

get drunk first then go to sleep........