Most people experience sleep issues in early recovery, leaving them cranky, unable to function, and reaching for the wrong types of foods for a boost. Lack of sleep can also put recovery at risk. Learning how to get more sleep in recovery is important for healing and growth.
Why Sleep Matters
Insomnia is more common in early recovery than for people in the general public. Sleep is critical to getting the body to rest, supports digestion of food, and helps keep the body and mind healthy. Lack of restful sleep can put people at risk of a return to drugs or alcohol. Early recovery is characterized by not sleeping, waking up at all hours, and just generally feeling lethargic. This can leave a person feeling exhausted.
Disrupted Sleep Patterns
Disturbed sleeping patterns and poor sleep quality is common for people in early recovery. It is part of the withdrawal process. Common symptoms include:
- Trouble staying asleep
- Racing thoughts
- Lethargy
- Nightmares
- Tiredness during the day
- Excessive sleeping
- Difficulty falling asleep
The most basic level if the stuff that keeps people up at night in early recovery like fears, anxiety, trauma, and regrets. It is not until a person settles into emotional balance in recovery and therapy they find some peace and this can help them sleep. There may be untreated co-occurring disorders that need support in treatment. It can result in an emotional rollercoaster until it begins to heal.
Improving Sleep
One of the best ways to improve sleeping patterns is to work towards establishing an improved quality of sleep. This includes:
- Establish regular sleep routine by going to bed at same time each night
- Drinking herbal teas
- Exercising during the day
- Practice relaxation techniques like body scan meditation
- Avoid eating meals close to bed
- Have Epsom bath before bed
- Avoid caffeinated beverages close to bedtime
- No screens an hour before bed
Sleep recovery is essential in overall recovery but it takes time. The body and mind are both adjusting to what is going on and they may not longer feel intense cravings or sleep disturbances are an issue once recovery gets rolling past the first six months and beyond.
Finding rest in recovery starts with making the decision to attend rehab and find healing. Oceanfront will help you kick addiction to the curb with our premier beachfront community in Laguna Beach. We are founded on the principle of providing the best in care and services at affordable prices. We are located in beautiful Laguna Beach. Call us to find out how we can help you navigate addiction recovery: 877-279-1777
