Ohio Valley Times

Many individuals face sleep challenges, particularly those recovering from substance use disorders. This includes substances like benzodiazepines, opioids, alcohol, and methamphetamine. Recovery often involves difficulties in falling asleep or maintaining good sleep quality. In an attempt to address these issues, some turn to marijuana as a self-medication tool. However, experts advise seeking professional help instead of relying on cannabis due to its complex effects on sleep.

A cohort study revealed that 79% of people in recovery experience sleep problems even after a year of abstinence. Sleep disturbances are linked to the body's adjustment process post-substance use and can be exacerbated by psychological distress related to maintaining sobriety. Additionally, addiction can disrupt levels of GABA, a neurotransmitter essential for rest and circadian rhythm regulation.

Substance withdrawal often triggers sleep issues which may persist for months or years into recovery. These disturbances can also increase the risk of relapse. Different substances affect sleep in various ways: alcohol dependence is associated with insomnia and potentially sleep apnea; marijuana withdrawal can lead to initial sleep problems; opioid detoxification is linked with insomnia; cocaine abstinence deteriorates sleep quality; methamphetamine recovery involves high rates of poor-quality sleep during early withdrawal stages; benzodiazepine withdrawal commonly results in anxiety and insomnia.

Common sleep disorders during recovery include insomnia, REM sleep behavior disorder (RBD), and rebound nightmares. THC in marijuana might help users fall asleep faster but reduces REM sleep time, affecting dream occurrence—a double-edged sword for those haunted by nightmares yet problematic when ceasing marijuana use.

Long-term marijuana use may contribute to RBD, causing vivid dreams and physical movements during sleep—issues already prevalent among those recovering from addiction. Some studies suggest potential benefits of cannabis for treating certain disorders under controlled conditions but highlight the need for further research.

Marijuana's impact on conditions like sleep apnea remains debated. While some findings suggest cannabis might aid airway muscle control during sleep, others show no significant effect or identify negative impacts on overall sleep architecture.

Combining marijuana with other substances such as alcohol or benzodiazepines poses additional risks. Mixing these can exacerbate respiratory depression and other health hazards.

Despite its perceived benefits, using marijuana as a long-term solution for sleep issues in recovery is discouraged due to potential dependency risks and unresolved underlying causes of disturbances.

Healthier alternatives include cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) for insomnia, meditation, deep breathing exercises, melatonin supplements, and magnesium intake—all contributing to improved stress management and healthier sleeping patterns without the risks associated with cannabis use.

For persistent issues despite natural remedies, professional support from centers like Harmony Ridge Recovery Center offers structured assistance tailored to individual needs—emphasizing sustainable strategies over quick fixes while addressing both substance use and related challenges comprehensively.