Many of us in early recovery from addictions are bone weary, even if we have not been doing very much in the recent past! There are a number of reasons for this: we have not eaten very much in recent days, weeks or even months so have depleted reserves of energy (many of our calories have been from alcohol which we have used up and replaced on an ongoing basis). We have not slept very well or properly rested (we have fallen asleep from the effects of the alcohol or drugs and had a restless sleep once these has worn off). In the early days of not drinking or using, we have had a nervous and draining energy.
If Tired Take a Rest and Sleep
As a result of us having used alcohol (or drugs) in the past to get energy, to keep us going. It is important that we establish a good pattern of sleep and do not get tempted to turn back to the alcohol or drugs to keep going when we get tired. If you are in early recovery and feel tired, take a rest and relax for a while, or if this is not an option, have a snack. Sugary may be best as this is what you usually had when you were using alcohol. It was the sweetness that gave you the energy.
Try and get into a good pattern of going to bed at a healthy time even if you do not immediately establish a good pattern of sleep. This is particularly challenging for the night owl drug addicts who, like vampires, have got into the habit of being awake at night and asleep in the day time. If you do find it hard to sleep, do not worry about it too much – no one dies from lack of sleep and if you persist in trying to establish a good pattern of rest, eventually it will come and your body will take and receive the sleep it needs.
Look at Other Habits if you can’t Sleep
If you are really struggling to sleep, it is worth looking at your other habits. Are you drinking too much caffeine (in coffee, tea or high energy drinks) in particular close to bedtime? Do you have a good pattern of eating? Are you getting enough exercise? Think of establishing a good bedtime routine, such as a milky drink, a relaxing bath, reading a book etc. Just lie still in a relaxing atmosphere and rest – sleep will come.
Do not resort to medication as this too can become addictive – and having spoken to people addicted to sleeping tablets, it is not an easy addiction to have nor a comfortable detox. A healthy natural sleep pattern will come in time and it is worth being patient for this.
Not Unusual to Have Using Dreams
One final word. It is not unusual once you get into a good pattern of sleep to have uncomfortable drinking or using dreams. These may continue for many months or even years though they should become fewer with time. You just have to bear with them as we cannot control our dreams. Be relieved when you wake up that that is all they were – a dream, and your recovery remains intact!
The Haynes Clinic is an alcohol and drug rehab clinic which offers detox and counselling for people with addictions. It follows the Twelve Step Programme of recovery.
Call 01462 851414 for free and confidential advice.
