Can Sleep Deprivation Lead To A Relapse?

Scientists understand a lot more about sleep today than they did a decade ago, but there are still things to learn about our natural ‘power charging’ state – especially in recovery. Prevention Before Treatment For instance, there is a big difference between the symptoms lack of sleep brings in a healthy brain in comparison to one that’s been touched by substance-use disorder (in most cases the substance doesn’t matter since the addiction is the underlying issue). If a healthy person will experience difficulties in concentration and temporary memory failures, a person dealing with addiction risks a relapse even though they’ve been sober for a while and doing well. While relapsing can be seen as part of the journey to a better life and a more secure self (both emotionally and physically), it is not something anyone wants to go through more than needed. Of course, there are ways to come out of the experience a bit more knowledgeable, but I always recommend prevention before treatment. But, to prevent, one needs to understand why a lack of sleep has such devastating effects on a recovering addict in comparison to a healthy person. The Link Between Sleep Deprivation And Addiction The main symptoms of sleep deprivation show up at brain level, impairing judgment, creating confusion, and overall inducing various cravings. For instance, a healthy person who doesn’t have good sleep habits will end up feeling hungry and craving fatty foods and sweets. On the other hand, the cravings of an addict are always related to their drug of choice, and sleep deprivation will only increase the risk of relapsing. When the brain is sleep deprived, you lack control over your own thoughts and cravings. Everything becomes less important than getting your needs satisfied and logical thinking is usually down-voted. So, if […]

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