Does the insomnia ever end?
Member
Thread Starter
Join Date: Oct 2018
Posts: 7
Does the insomnia ever end?
Hey everyone, got a conundrum and am wondering if this affects anyone else:
I have been alcohol-free for 2 months and 8 days. It's been going surprisingly well except for unrelenting insomnia. Insomnia is the one thing that makes me want to drink (just to make it stop), but I haven't given in thanks to the support I have and my commitment to my health and well-being. Still, it's extremely frustrating.
At first, I thought perhaps this was a result my brain's readjustment to no alcohol and that my brain would normalize within few weeks. Then it was a month. Now I'm going on 9 weeks of mostly sleepless nights except for a few here and there. It's maddening and part of the reason I drank in the first place.
I've tried everything recommended to try and establish a normal sleeping pattern:
* plant based whole foods diet and consume very little sugar
* exercise every day (1-2.5 hours)
* don't consume caffeine in the afternoon
* drink lots of water
* herbal teas/low dose melatonin
* early wake up time and don't "sleep in"
To my frustration, nothing seems to be helping. I've even tried exercising myself to exhaustion and while my body will become tired, my mind does not. I just lay there, awake, sometimes until 0300. When I do fall asleep, I wake up often.
Has this happened to anyone else? Is it ever going to go away? I've been patient and determined but it's whittling away at my mental well-being. Thanks in advance.
I have been alcohol-free for 2 months and 8 days. It's been going surprisingly well except for unrelenting insomnia. Insomnia is the one thing that makes me want to drink (just to make it stop), but I haven't given in thanks to the support I have and my commitment to my health and well-being. Still, it's extremely frustrating.
At first, I thought perhaps this was a result my brain's readjustment to no alcohol and that my brain would normalize within few weeks. Then it was a month. Now I'm going on 9 weeks of mostly sleepless nights except for a few here and there. It's maddening and part of the reason I drank in the first place.
I've tried everything recommended to try and establish a normal sleeping pattern:
* plant based whole foods diet and consume very little sugar
* exercise every day (1-2.5 hours)
* don't consume caffeine in the afternoon
* drink lots of water
* herbal teas/low dose melatonin
* early wake up time and don't "sleep in"
To my frustration, nothing seems to be helping. I've even tried exercising myself to exhaustion and while my body will become tired, my mind does not. I just lay there, awake, sometimes until 0300. When I do fall asleep, I wake up often.
Has this happened to anyone else? Is it ever going to go away? I've been patient and determined but it's whittling away at my mental well-being. Thanks in advance.
Member
Join Date: Jul 2014
Posts: 4,251
Hi and welcome.
I am one of the fortunate ones who only suffered a night or two of sleeplessness. I have never had issues with sleep- except when drinking. Alcohol makes sleep much worse.
I know you probably remember not sleeping well while drinking but you are thinking "at least I could pass out and get a few hours"
Insomnia and not getting enough sleep is no joke. The absolute worst. From what I have read around the forum your insomnia has gone on beyond the "usual" length of time after quitting. Therefore I would recommend getting to your doctor asap and asking for help. Not sleeping is absolute torture and yes, would drive a sane person to drink as the expression goes.
My older son did not sleep through the night until age 3, when he was almost 2 I gave birth to his brother, so in addition to the two previous years of no sleep with one child, I had a year of dealing with 2 children waking on and off throughout the night. actually, his younger brother started sleeping through the night before he did! I tel you this to say that although I have never suffered insomnia I have dealt with not getting a full night's sleep and it is HELL ON EARTH. There is a reason sleep depravation is used as a means of torture in war. Get to a doctor, you deserve a good night's rest and to finally start to fully enjoy the benefits of sobriety.
On that note, major congratulations on your sober time! You have done excellent work leaning on your supports and not letting this get you back into drinking.
Best of luck to you.
I am one of the fortunate ones who only suffered a night or two of sleeplessness. I have never had issues with sleep- except when drinking. Alcohol makes sleep much worse.
I know you probably remember not sleeping well while drinking but you are thinking "at least I could pass out and get a few hours"
Insomnia and not getting enough sleep is no joke. The absolute worst. From what I have read around the forum your insomnia has gone on beyond the "usual" length of time after quitting. Therefore I would recommend getting to your doctor asap and asking for help. Not sleeping is absolute torture and yes, would drive a sane person to drink as the expression goes.
My older son did not sleep through the night until age 3, when he was almost 2 I gave birth to his brother, so in addition to the two previous years of no sleep with one child, I had a year of dealing with 2 children waking on and off throughout the night. actually, his younger brother started sleeping through the night before he did! I tel you this to say that although I have never suffered insomnia I have dealt with not getting a full night's sleep and it is HELL ON EARTH. There is a reason sleep depravation is used as a means of torture in war. Get to a doctor, you deserve a good night's rest and to finally start to fully enjoy the benefits of sobriety.
On that note, major congratulations on your sober time! You have done excellent work leaning on your supports and not letting this get you back into drinking.
Best of luck to you.
Member
Join Date: Jul 2014
Posts: 4,251
Also, to add, if you are wary of taking medication to sleep (I would be for sure) your doctor can still advise on additional changes you can make to help sleep come.
Some I have heard of:
Remove any live plants from the room
Keep the temperature in the room cool but add additional warm blankets, opening a window also helps
Weighted blankets
Lavandar scented oils on your temples or directly on the pillow
A warm bath or shower before bed
Various herbal teas on the market including Sleepytime or Tension Tamer
White noise machines
Self-hypnotism (I tried this years ago and have never slept so well in my life, and woken so full of energy)
Some I have heard of:
Remove any live plants from the room
Keep the temperature in the room cool but add additional warm blankets, opening a window also helps
Weighted blankets
Lavandar scented oils on your temples or directly on the pillow
A warm bath or shower before bed
Various herbal teas on the market including Sleepytime or Tension Tamer
White noise machines
Self-hypnotism (I tried this years ago and have never slept so well in my life, and woken so full of energy)
Member
Join Date: Oct 2017
Location: Minnesota, USA
Posts: 1,468
Oh, how I remember those days.
I hope for your sake they do not last much longer.
I had that for about 3 months.
I feel like once I was at ease with what I had done while drinking, my sleep improved. - May have been a coincidence, I do not know with 100%
Have you tried meditating music? Maybe one specifically for falling asleep?
I had an app on my phone for this, for the life of me can't remember who it was. I think I paid $1.99 or something for it.
Best wishes to you and I hope you are able to huh your mind and get some good rest.
Blessings,
DC
I hope for your sake they do not last much longer.
I had that for about 3 months.
I feel like once I was at ease with what I had done while drinking, my sleep improved. - May have been a coincidence, I do not know with 100%
Have you tried meditating music? Maybe one specifically for falling asleep?
I had an app on my phone for this, for the life of me can't remember who it was. I think I paid $1.99 or something for it.
Best wishes to you and I hope you are able to huh your mind and get some good rest.
Blessings,
DC
Member
Join Date: Dec 2012
Location: Toronto
Posts: 3,195
I have been struggling with insomnia for months. Drunk or sober, it's a problem. I am 8 days sober. Have only slept on 3 days during this time. I sleep 4-5 hours every 48 hours approximately. I am a zombie pretty much. Just waiting all day and night for sleep to arrive. It never does.
Member
Join Date: Jun 2016
Location: UK
Posts: 1,327
I get it too, and I know what you mean NoGoodNamesLeft that it feels like the one thing that makes you want to drink. It feels almost like a hangover after a night of insomnia and then you think what is the point? But then at least I realise I have no drunken regrets and can still usually, just about, face work... I'm only on Day 14 and hoping things get better but it's been a chronic thing (off and on) for me most of my life, drunk or sober and, like you, one of the 'reasons' I drank in the first place. It's tricky, for sure.
One thing I know I've never had is a protracted period of abstinence so here's hoping that might just be the thing! To me your 2 months, 8 days sounds a lot (and well done!) but I'm guessing many here will say you're just in early recovery still and it will get better. That's what I'm hoping anyway, for my sake as well!
One thing I know I've never had is a protracted period of abstinence so here's hoping that might just be the thing! To me your 2 months, 8 days sounds a lot (and well done!) but I'm guessing many here will say you're just in early recovery still and it will get better. That's what I'm hoping anyway, for my sake as well!
Member
Join Date: Sep 2016
Location: Atlanta
Posts: 244
Insomnia is the worst! I'm just over 8 months and I'm thrilled if I can get 3 or 4 hours of uninterrupted sleep, which is rare. I refuse to take any medication because of the negative effects they have on brain chemistry.
It appears that you are doing all the right things. It's early. Be patient and stay the course. It will get better.
It appears that you are doing all the right things. It's early. Be patient and stay the course. It will get better.
sober style
Join Date: May 2016
Location: San Antonio
Posts: 2,382
I sleep better now than when I was a drunk, but it's still not perfect. This is after 2 years sober. I mean what in life is perfect, especially as we age and our bodies gradually fall apart and stop working haha. I mean that's what's normal for everyone, period.
So what I do for sleep is what I do for a lot of things, I put forth a good faith effort on a consistent basis, observe what works and what doesn't, tinker a little, observe more, etc. And I still have periods where I can't get enough sleep but way fewer than I used to, and I know it's not the end of the world no matter what. Now being a drunk and continuing to drink, that's the end of the world haha!
So what I do for sleep is what I do for a lot of things, I put forth a good faith effort on a consistent basis, observe what works and what doesn't, tinker a little, observe more, etc. And I still have periods where I can't get enough sleep but way fewer than I used to, and I know it's not the end of the world no matter what. Now being a drunk and continuing to drink, that's the end of the world haha!
Member
Join Date: Nov 2014
Posts: 403
I haven't really posted much as of late. I did want to reply here because it seems like a number of highly-functioning women (who are balancing family, children, and [demanding] careers) have posted.
I just wanted to wish all of you forbearance and patience in your journey. I'm nearly three years in, and, yes, I miss it, but, I'm well-aware that my alcoholic life could no longer be sustained. Everything had fallen apart, except my professional life--that was starting to show wear as well. By nature of my profession, I have long periods of time off and each hospitalization took place during that time. Unfortunately, it didn't stick until the third or fourth time.
I'm also here if you want to chat.
Best.
I just wanted to wish all of you forbearance and patience in your journey. I'm nearly three years in, and, yes, I miss it, but, I'm well-aware that my alcoholic life could no longer be sustained. Everything had fallen apart, except my professional life--that was starting to show wear as well. By nature of my profession, I have long periods of time off and each hospitalization took place during that time. Unfortunately, it didn't stick until the third or fourth time.
I'm also here if you want to chat.
Best.
Member
Thread Starter
Join Date: Oct 2018
Posts: 7
Thanks everyone for your responses. I actually had a decent night last night (after it took me 2 hours to fall asleep). Recently bought a new, very nice, very plush king size bed so that also helps. It's amazing what a little comfort will do.
Blue Belt
Join Date: Jul 2015
Location: Soberville, USA
Posts: 4,174
Nogood,
I'm pretty clean for a long time and I now normally sleep 5 to 6 hours straight.
Sleeping has been nearly the most wonderful gift sobriety has offered.
It is one of my baseline reasons to never drink again.
My sleeping was horrible initially. Maybe 2 or 3 hours a night for days at a time. I took naps all the time.
I am looming forward to routinely sleeping 7 or 8 hours all the time. I will be so much more efficient knowing I can lay my head in a pillow and get straight rest.
I can't wait.
Thanks.
I'm pretty clean for a long time and I now normally sleep 5 to 6 hours straight.
Sleeping has been nearly the most wonderful gift sobriety has offered.
It is one of my baseline reasons to never drink again.
My sleeping was horrible initially. Maybe 2 or 3 hours a night for days at a time. I took naps all the time.
I am looming forward to routinely sleeping 7 or 8 hours all the time. I will be so much more efficient knowing I can lay my head in a pillow and get straight rest.
I can't wait.
Thanks.
Member
Join Date: Jan 2019
Posts: 510
Originally Posted by Meraviglioso 
Hi and welcome.
I am one of the fortunate ones who only suffered a night or two of sleeplessness. I have never had issues with sleep- except when drinking. Alcohol makes sleep much worse.
I know you probably remember not sleeping well while drinking but you are thinking "at least I could pass out and get a few hours"
Insomnia and not getting enough sleep is no joke. The absolute worst. From what I have read around the forum your insomnia has gone on beyond the "usual" length of time after quitting. Therefore I would recommend getting to your doctor asap and asking for help. Not sleeping is absolute torture and yes, would drive a sane person to drink as the expression goes.
My older son did not sleep through the night until age 3, when he was almost 2 I gave birth to his brother, so in addition to the two previous years of no sleep with one child, I had a year of dealing with 2 children waking on and off throughout the night. actually, his younger brother started sleeping through the night before he did! I tel you this to say that although I have never suffered insomnia I have dealt with not getting a full night's sleep and it is HELL ON EARTH. There is a reason sleep depravation is used as a means of torture in war. Get to a doctor, you deserve a good night's rest and to finally start to fully enjoy the benefits of sobriety.
On that note, major congratulations on your sober time! You have done excellent work leaning on your supports and not letting this get you back into drinking.
Best of luck to you.
I am one of the fortunate ones who only suffered a night or two of sleeplessness. I have never had issues with sleep- except when drinking. Alcohol makes sleep much worse.
I know you probably remember not sleeping well while drinking but you are thinking "at least I could pass out and get a few hours"
Insomnia and not getting enough sleep is no joke. The absolute worst. From what I have read around the forum your insomnia has gone on beyond the "usual" length of time after quitting. Therefore I would recommend getting to your doctor asap and asking for help. Not sleeping is absolute torture and yes, would drive a sane person to drink as the expression goes.
My older son did not sleep through the night until age 3, when he was almost 2 I gave birth to his brother, so in addition to the two previous years of no sleep with one child, I had a year of dealing with 2 children waking on and off throughout the night. actually, his younger brother started sleeping through the night before he did! I tel you this to say that although I have never suffered insomnia I have dealt with not getting a full night's sleep and it is HELL ON EARTH. There is a reason sleep depravation is used as a means of torture in war. Get to a doctor, you deserve a good night's rest and to finally start to fully enjoy the benefits of sobriety.
On that note, major congratulations on your sober time! You have done excellent work leaning on your supports and not letting this get you back into drinking.
Best of luck to you.
Member
Join Date: Feb 2017
Location: Right here, right now
Posts: 3,964
Hi, congrats on your sober time!
I started having insomnia in my late 30’s before my drinking problem started. It got worse with the drinking. Even after I stopped, it took near a year to sleep better. I took prescription sleep meds for a long time, but weaned off a few months ago. I do still take melatonin and a product called Source Naturals Sleep Science/ Night Rest. I’m not recommending or not but it works wonders for me. My sleep quality has improved drastically, though I still only get about 6-1/2 a night. I don’t feel I need more though.
There are lots of natural supplements and other options if you talk to your doctor or a naturopath. Meditation apps also help me a lot to wind down. I like Insight Timer. Even YouTube has some good stuff. Everyone is wired differently. No one deserves to be sleep deprived.
One more thing... not sure if you are male or female. Hormones can really affect sleep too, especially perimenopause/menopause.
I started having insomnia in my late 30’s before my drinking problem started. It got worse with the drinking. Even after I stopped, it took near a year to sleep better. I took prescription sleep meds for a long time, but weaned off a few months ago. I do still take melatonin and a product called Source Naturals Sleep Science/ Night Rest. I’m not recommending or not but it works wonders for me. My sleep quality has improved drastically, though I still only get about 6-1/2 a night. I don’t feel I need more though.
There are lots of natural supplements and other options if you talk to your doctor or a naturopath. Meditation apps also help me a lot to wind down. I like Insight Timer. Even YouTube has some good stuff. Everyone is wired differently. No one deserves to be sleep deprived.
One more thing... not sure if you are male or female. Hormones can really affect sleep too, especially perimenopause/menopause.
Member
Join Date: Feb 2017
Location: Right here, right now
Posts: 3,964
Originally Posted by gettingsmarter
Be mindful of watching stimulating media while trying to go to bed. Watching TV or youtube videos on my phone will keep me up all night.
Guest
Join Date: Aug 2015
Location: Atlanta
Posts: 8,674
Just piping up about another kind of meds - prescriptions like anti-depressants. Nogoodnames, I don't see you mention if you have seen any drs (general practictioners or specialists like psychs). I am also almost 3 yrs in and over time have changed my (non-sleep aid) prescriptions to AM rather than PM taking.
I've taken sleep meds every night at times, and now rarely because they seemed directly connected to horrific night sweats so the whole getting sleep thing was nullified
I do nap. I've deliberately gotten to the point that they are short (an hour, even 45 min) not marathons like I have done at some points, and in truth do still when I am emotionally overwhelmed. I have found that my body has settled into a 430 ish, 530 at the typical latest, wake up time. I'm going to bed btw 845 and at latest 10, most of the time.
I'm not trying to be a downer with sharing my sleep issues this far in- they frustrate me a lot much of the time, but I'll call least to mind here, once again - I'm grateful to have sober sleep issues than the truly pitiful "sleep" I ever had drunk.
Keep on going. You've got good time yet are still quite early, so wishing you what most of us experience, which is significant overall improvement in health and life.
I've taken sleep meds every night at times, and now rarely because they seemed directly connected to horrific night sweats so the whole getting sleep thing was nullified
I do nap. I've deliberately gotten to the point that they are short (an hour, even 45 min) not marathons like I have done at some points, and in truth do still when I am emotionally overwhelmed. I have found that my body has settled into a 430 ish, 530 at the typical latest, wake up time. I'm going to bed btw 845 and at latest 10, most of the time.
I'm not trying to be a downer with sharing my sleep issues this far in- they frustrate me a lot much of the time, but I'll call least to mind here, once again - I'm grateful to have sober sleep issues than the truly pitiful "sleep" I ever had drunk.
Keep on going. You've got good time yet are still quite early, so wishing you what most of us experience, which is significant overall improvement in health and life.
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