A-Z of Addiction Recovery: Z is for Zzzzzz

Zzzzzzz

Sleeping or "catching z's" is an important part of our health and life. When sleep is disrupted it can affect the ability to think, diminish one's mood, and inhibit the ability to complete daily tasks. The overall well being of a person is disturbed when addiction and withdrawal causes one to be sleep-deprived. Prescribed medications for sleep may have become addicting, or taking stimulants may make it difficult to sleep soundly, (this includes caffeine and nicotine.)

Many clients use different forms of natural or non-addicting sleep aids in early recovery to help get the body's time clock back on track. I am neither a medical professional nor a sleep expert. I am a group counselor merely reporting what our clients say helps them fall asleep.

Melatonin, a natural sedative, can be helpful and is non-addicting. Trazodone, which is stronger and nonaddictive is prescribed by a doctor. Home relaxation activities such as taking a warm leisurely bath, listening to soft music, and drinking chamomille tea help induce sleep in some of our clients. Reducing noise and interruptions is also advised; turn off the phone, TV, and computer, or close the window and door if the noise is outside, and inform people in the house that you are going to bed ("Quiet, please") may keep the surrounding noise level down.

Closing curtains and blinds, laying on pillows that are comfortable, (not too flat or too puffy for your head and neck), and spreading out on a mattress that is soft and cozy, yet firm, can help you sleep. Blankets that are lightweight and not too warm, nor leave you feeling cold, may help. You can also adjust the room temperature by using a low speed ceiling or table fan, adjusting the windows, and wearing comfortable clothes to bed.

Early addiction recovery is a time of healing and more sleep may be needed while the brain and body heals itself. We hope you find your own way to a better night's sleep....Zzzzzzz. Let us know what works well for you - please blog us your own sleep tips.