Individuals diagnosed with substance use disorder (SUD) have a much higher risk of experiencing one or more sleep disturbances during rehabilitation and aftercare. Insomnia and sleep deprivation can cause significant health issues if left unaddressed. Bright Mission Recovery helps clients develop healthier sleeping patterns using evidence-based and alternative treatments.
The Physical Effects of Sleep Deprivation and Insomnia
Insomnia and sleep deprivation impact all systems in the body. People who fail to get the recommended amount of quality sleep each night may experience multiple preventable health issues. The brain and other organs struggle to function adequately without restful sleep. According to the National Heart, Blood, and Lung Institute (NHBLI), “Sleep deficiency can lead to physical and mental health problems, injuries, loss of productivity, and even a greater likelihood of death.”
Some of the most common physical side effects of sleep deprivation include:
- Heart palpitations or irregular heartbeat
- Increased inflammation
- Reduced pain tolerance
- Increased risk of preventable diseases, including diabetes
- Digestive issues
- Delayed reaction times and difficulty focusing
- Muscle weakness and poor communication
- Hormonal imbalances
- Unintended weight gain or loss
- Weakened immune system
- Headaches or migraines
- Chronic fatigue
Individuals with SUD have an increased risk of relapse or overdose if they experience untreated insomnia or sleep deprivation. Early intervention and treatment are the best ways to avoid long-term health issues related to sleep loss and other sleep disturbances.
3 Ways Sleep Deprivation and Sleep Disturbances Affect Recovery
Sleep deficiencies may impact how people respond to rehabilitation programs. For example, clients may have a more challenging time focusing during therapy, or they may experience more severe side effects of withdrawal. Addressing the underlying issues causing sleep disturbances provides relief and ensures clients get the recommended amount of sleep each night. Below are three ways insomnia and sleep deficiency may increase the risk of relapse and how people can avoid them.
#1. Sleep Disturbances and Deprivation Increase Overall Stress
Chronic stress is one of the leading causes of relapse. Rehabilitation involves making necessary lifestyle changes and addressing underlying causes of addictive behaviors, including stress. Therapy and other forms of treatment may temporarily increase stress as people learn to manage their condition. A lack of quality sleep increases the severity of stress and may also cause more severe side effects of SUD.
Practicing healthy sleep hygiene and creating a nighttime routine reduces stress and improves sleep quality. Clinicians work with clients to help them identify potential issues affecting sleep. In some cases, clients may benefit from prescription medications or other treatments to help them sleep through the night.
#2. Sleep Quality Impacts Cravings
Cravings may happen more frequently or feel more intrusive if people struggle with insomnia or other sleep disturbances. According to Addictive Behaviors, “Sleep disturbance has been identified as a risk factor for relapse in addiction to a range of substances.” In addition, research studies have found that “[o]n days with better than usual sleep quality, participants reported less craving.” Clients can create a comfortable sleeping space by adjusting lighting and temperature, removing distractions, and avoiding stimulating activities or foods before bed.
#3. Sleep Deprivation Contributes to Impulsivity and Impaired Decision-Making
Impulsivity is a common issue for individuals with SUD. Chronic substance abuse makes it more challenging for people to make healthy decisions. Impulsivity is a frequent cause of relapse and may increase the risk of other self-harming or self-destructive behaviors.
Clients in treatment avoid impulsivity by practicing mindfulness, self-awareness, and self-accountability. Poor quality sleep may make it harder for some clients to maintain mindfulness. A solid support system is essential to ensure clients have outside support and accountability to help them maintain sobriety until they achieve a more balanced sleep schedule.
How Does Bright Mission Recovery Address Sleep Deprivation?
Sleep deprivation affects a person’s physical and mental health. The care team at Bright Mission Recovery uses tailored treatment plans to address the root causes of sleep deprivation, allowing clients to focus more fully on rehabilitation.
Holistic therapies are commonly used to treat sleep disturbances related to depression, anxiety, or stress. Meditation, mindfulness-based techniques, and positive social interactions provide clients with emotional and practical support as they navigate rehabilitation. Clinicians generally use a combination of evidence-based and holistic therapies to help clients develop healthier sleep routines.
Improving Sleep Quality Through Lifestyle Changes
Clients with SUD benefit from making significant lifestyle changes to support ongoing sobriety during rehabilitation. The care team guides clients through identifying and addressing issues, including sleep quality, that may affect treatment or continuing care.
A few of the lifestyle changes people make to improve sleep quality during rehabilitation include:
- Going to bed and waking up at the same time each day
- Engaging in calming activities like meditation, breathwork, or reading before bed
- Limiting caffeine, sugar, and other stimulants at night
- Reducing exposure to blue light before sleep
- Regularly engaging in physical activity during the day
- Adjusting diet to promote healthier sleep patterns
- Limiting naps during the day
Bright Mission Recovery educates clients and provides them with the tools to improve their sleep quality during treatment for SUD.
Insomnia, sleep deprivation, and other sleep disturbances affect people’s quality of life and overall wellness. Individuals with SUD have a higher risk of experiencing one or more sleep disturbances during treatment. Rehabilitation programs address sleep issues using a combination of prescription medications, peer support, therapy, and lifestyle changes. Clients learn to create healthy sleep routines and habits to ensure they get the recommended amount of quality sleep each night. Quality rest is essential for stress management, physical health, and mood regulation. Bright Mission Recovery encourages clients to practice self-care and proper sleep hygiene. To learn more about our programs and support services, reach out to our office today by calling (747) 444-3284.