I'm Newly Sober & I Have Insomnia!!!!

One of the most common problems we see from people new to recovery is the inability to or lack of sleep.  You would think that after you stop drinking and using the mind and body would catch up and you'd sleep better.  To a degree that is true but like everything else in early sobriety, it takes time.

With years of substance abuse, chemical imbalances are created in the brain.  Many times the mind and the brain take longer to cooperate and get into what we deem "normal".  We are beaten up three ways by active addiction.  Spiritually, mentally, and physically.  The physical piece like weight issues, muscle soreness, and how our bodies feel over all a lot of times get much better after the detox phase.  Then as we move through the program of a drug rehab over 28 days we begin to feel mentally better.  The biggest issue most people face from a mental standpoint is the racing thoughts that occur when our heads hit the pillow at night.  We think about everything that is wrong in our life.  Guilt and shame begin to flood every thought.  When our brains are "going 100mph" at night, many times sleep doesn't happen.

Just remember, this is going to stop in time.  Don't use any over the counter drugs or sleep medications.  We are trying to get all chemicals out of our life and this only hurts that process.  This is a great time to start practicing what 12 step models teach.  If you don't believe in a higher power this can be your acid test.  Sometimes saying a little prayer helps.  Try and see, you have nothing to lose.

"(Higher Power,)
Please take away all the thoughts in my head right now.  I can't stop thinking about horrible things in my life.  Please let me believe that everything is going to be ok.  Let me see any good that has come into my life. "

Clearbrook Manor

1-800-582-6241

Offering Help, Promising Hope

www.clearbrookinc.com