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I wanted to put this problem out to the group. My daughter has been an alcoholic since she was a teenager, going to multiple rehabs, and having periods of recovery usually lasting about a year or two. She has always had sleeping problems, even as a child, only sleeping 4 or 5 hours a night, and being restless throughout. As an adult, it has gotten worse, and I'm wondering if her alcoholism is part of the reason she's now having trouble even falling asleep at all. She was very emotional because of lack of sleep, so she went to a sleep disorder clinic, who told her she didn't have a problem, and she should be able to take melatonin and listen to music to fall asleep. Has anyone here had a person in recovery who has gone through sleeping problems? If so, was it recommended for those to take sleeping pills? My daughter is afraid to get started on that train..
Hi BG. I would think someone in the field of alcoholism would best be able to answer your questions, like a CASAC (Certified alcohol and substance abuse professional) who has studied the chemistry of what alcohol does to someones system. I tend to think sleeping pills are not a good answer for anyone with addiction . My A slept excessively when drinking so that was the opposite effect. The folks I know of who have gone to sleep disorder clinics end up spending the night and being monitored throughout. Im not sure a good diagnosis can be made without that step. I hope you will keep searching for the answers you need, and others on the board may be able to help, Lyne
BG, the only thing I can say is that when my AD has stopped drinking on and off, she suffers from insomnia. Shes tried herbal teas, other supplements and has cut back severely on caffeine....to no avail Im afraid. When my AH has cut back on his alcohol consumption, his biggest complaint is that he cant sleep. I dont think sleeping pills would be the route to go, but I have no expertise on the subject.
I suffered from insomnia since I was a kid. Apart from living in a chaotic alcoholic situation- I also suffered from bad neglect. This is why I had nightmares. In order to switch off the nightmares I would wake myself up.
I would not talk about the pros and cons of meds- Tradition 10. However, speaking for myself; I use a product i buy from the supermarket. St John's Wort is not a quick fix. But it does take the edge off of anxiety, and does help me to straighten out my sleep patterns.
I still have heaps to do with Alanon and one other 12 Step group. I find that I have to face down, and acknowledge, the impacts on my life- recognise that i have to live in the present if I want to live at all.
I rarely if ever drink alcohol; don't use dope; have tea or coffee, as a treat, about once a month.
i used to be a compulsive eater- but not now. I have regular exercise, and maintain good social contacts, these days.
Oten when i am visiting; or being visited; I drink water. -it's no big deal.
But this took me years of letting go- it is not a quick fix, by any means!
Buckeye Girl - there's two posts from you on the subject -- I responded in the other one...(((Hugs))) I would gladly combine them if I knew how to do so!
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Practice the PAUSE...Pause before judging. Pause before assuming. Pause before accusing. Pause whenever you are about to react harshly and you will avoid doing and saying things you will later regret. ~~~~ Lori Deschene
