Discogirl I get the monthly Puzzler Collection book (they sell it in Sainsburys etc) which has lots of different puzzle types inc crosswords. It sits by my bed and I do some every night until my eyes get heavy. I find it more engaging than reading a book and it's like my little comforting routine now! I also find it helps with the psychological fear of "I'm going to sleep now" that you refer to which I totally relate to - instead you're just going to bed to do some puzzles
Yes I've tried Amitriptyline too - most sedating ADs in fact! You do get used to them after a while, which is why I'm in the middle of switching from Mirtazapine to Trazodone which is equally as good for sleep (in my experience). But, if HRT improved your sleep before (it did for me too, hugely) I'm sure it will again and that won't be necessary. Sounds like a good plan to up by half a patch and see how you get on, then increase again if necessary. You don't mention how old you are, but I've read several places that younger women often need higher doses of HRT, so in general nothing to be worried about.
Sending you lots of good vibes - you'll turn this corner soon, it's just a little blip not a full blown "relapse"
