Connection Between Insomnia and Detox

What is the Connection Between Insomnia and Detox?

Insomnia is when a person is having a hard time sleeping or can’t stay asleep for an extended period of time. When a person abuses a substance, either drugs or alcohol, it affects the brain in many different ways. This involves sleeping patterns such as sleep quality, the length of time spent sleeping, and the time it takes to fall asleep.

When a person decides to seek treatment, and on their road to recovery, one of the withdrawal symptoms is insomnia. This increases the risk of drugs or alcohol cravings if not managed properly. Sleep and addiction have a connection that makes it harder to recover from substance abuse. Insomnia hinders the brain to come with self-regulation abilities and new coping mechanisms that are vital for a person’s recovery from addiction.

What Should You Know About Insomnia and Withdrawal?

Insomnia is one of the most common symptoms for people recovering from alcohol or drug abuse. When the body no longer receives these substances, the body reacts. The case of insomnia is different for everyone. Others have it for weeks, months, or years which often results in tiredness, anxiety, reduced excitement, irritability, and poor concentration. You shouldn’t take this lightly. Seeking professional treatment is the best option to avoid relapse.

What Can You Do to Combat Insomnia During Recovery?

Here we have listed some of the ways that you can improve your sleep:

1. Have a Regular Sleep Schedule

It can be difficult to adjust your sleeping schedule when your body is lacking in substances in your system. You should start by having a sleep schedule that you should follow constantly. When you do this, your body’s internal clock or circadian rhythm will slowly adjust. Over time, you’ll notice that you’re sleeping better and longer.

2. Relax Before Bedtime

Now that you know the connection between detox and insomnia, it is vital that you do this step. There are a lot of things you can do to relax before you fall asleep. You can either take a shower, listen to soothing songs, or read your favorite book. Avoid using your mobile device or watching TV one hour before your scheduled sleep time. Using gadgets before bedtime can make your mind stay active longer than you intended to.

3. Watch What You Intake

Things that contain nicotine and caffeine are not something that you should consume for four to six hours before your desired bedtime. It is best to avoid coffee, tea, chocolate, and many others. Also, it is not a good idea to sleep without eating anything. There is a possibility that you’ll wake up in the middle of the night with a gurgling stomach, and you don’t want that.

4. Keep Your Naps to a Minimum

If you love to take a nap during the day, you should keep it short. Napping for more than 30 minutes can impede your body’s clock. You may find it difficult to follow your sleep schedule. Not only that but taking naps during the day can make you drowsy.

5. Note That Your Bedroom is for Sleeping Only

Know your limits. Your bedroom should stay as your bedroom. Avoid working or watching television on your bed. You should set boundaries. When your body is conditioned to perceive your bedroom for the purpose of sleeping only, you’ll always have a good night’s sleep. For you to avoid the risk of relapse, it is important to recognize the connection between sleep and addiction recovery.

6. Exercise Regularly

Knowing how to manage your sleep and detox is important for your progress. Working out on a regular basis will not only make you fit and healthy, but it will also aid you in sleeping better. It is proven that exercise contributes to deep and restful sleep. Your body will definitely thank you for that. This can also strengthen your immune system and enhance your cardiac health. As well, this can also improve your mental health and reduce anxiety and stress.

It can be draining and frustrating if you’re suffering from sleep deprivation. It can also have a big impact on your mental and physical state. You can follow these steps to manage sleep and addiction recovery at the same time. However, if your insomnia is extreme, you can always seek help from professionals. You can be certain that you’ll have a long and restorative sleep in no time.

If you or your loved one is struggling with insomnia during detox, Haven House is a recovery center near Nashville. We can help you combat insomnia without risking relapse. We have a 12-step, Christ-based program that will be beneficial for you! Contact us now!