Tackling an addiction and getting sober is one of the best things you can do for your health.
But, it does bring many short and medium-term challenges, though, from depression to a range of physical and mental withdrawal symptoms. One potential challenge you might not be aware of is sobriety fatigue.
This is a feeling of being worn out or exhausted, which can be particularly strong during the first few months of recovery. There are a number of causes, and not everyone will experience sobriety fatigue, but it can be very difficult to deal with.
It is important to understand and address sobriety fatigue in the recovery process, as it could otherwise increase the chance of relapse going forward.
What Is Sobriety Fatigue?
So, what is sobriety fatigue exactly? Sobriety fatigue (also known as recovery fatigue) refers to a general feeling of tiredness and exhaustion that is often experienced. This is particularly apparent in the early stages of recovery. A number of causes seem to combine at the same time, and the overall effect can be a little overwhelming.
Getting sober can be physically and mentally taxing, and your mind and body take time to adjust. During your substance misuse, you are also likely to have put your physical and mental health through a lot of strain, affecting your sleep patterns and general health. The effects can be hidden under the other impacts of substance misuse and addiction, leading to a ‘crash’ during recovery.
Sobriety fatigue can manifest in a number of different ways, including:
- Physical fatigue
- Tiredness
- Mental exhaustion
- Brain fog
- Lethargy
- Lack of motivation
It can also overlap with other longer-term withdrawal symptoms, such as depression.
What Causes Sobriety Fatigue?
Sobriety fatigue does not generally have a single easily identifiable cause but arises from a combination of effects.
Withdrawal symptoms can be one leading cause. When you misuse a substance over a long period of time, your brain and body become used to that substance being present and adjust to account for it. Alcohol, for example, is a central nervous system depressant, and your system compensates by making more of a neurotransmitter called glutamate.
When the alcohol is withdrawn, you are essentially still flooded with this energising glutamate, which can lead to a number of withdrawal symptoms, including:
- Racing heart
- Anxiety
- Shakes or tremors
- Sleeplessness and insomnia
This can contribute to a feeling of lasting tiredness or exhaustion even after the initial withdrawal symptoms wear off.
Your body may also be in recovery from a long period of substance misuse. Stimulants like cocaine and amphetamines can have an apparent negative effect on sleep patterns by keeping you awake. Still, even depressants like alcohol and cannabis can affect the quality of sleep. Some people believe these substances help them to sleep, but even if they allow them to get to sleep initially, they can increase the difficulty in maintaining sleep and reduce restful REM or deep sleep.
The process of recovery can also be emotionally and mentally exhausting in general terms, adding to the overall feeling of fatigue during recovery.
How Long Does Sobriety Fatigue Last?
If you are in recovery or looking to start the process, you might be asking the question, ‘How long does sobriety fatigue last?’
Unfortunately, there is no single answer to that question. A number of factors can influence the person’s general health, including the substance involved, the length and heaviness of substance misuse, and the person’s general health.
Recovery fatigue may start in the first week of sobriety and last for around a month. However, this can vary quite widely. It’s important to be patient. Recovery is an ongoing process, and, for many people, sobriety fatigue is a normal part of that process.
Strategies for Managing Sobriety Fatigue
There are a number of steps that can be taken to help manage sobriety fatigue, which can be undertaken as part of a supervised addiction recovery programme or as part of an ongoing aftercare programme.
Physical Health
Improving your physical health can be a vital part of addiction recovery and can also help you overcome exhaustion and fatigue. Realistic exercise programmes, proper nutrition, and hydration can all help.
Mental Health
Looking after your mental health is just as important, and if you attend a rehab programme, mental health issues are also usually addressed through therapy and other treatments. Techniques such as mindfulness and meditation can also help to deal with stress, anxiety and emotional issues during your recovery.
Lifestyle Adjustments
Establishing a healthy daily routine, avoiding triggers, and avoiding high-stress situations can all help you recover overall and overcome fatigue. Adopting healthy sleep hygiene patterns can also help you get enough high-quality sleep, which is essential for general well-being.
Seeking Support
If you undergo addiction treatment at a professional rehab like Cassiobury Court, you will be given support and guidance both during the main treatment programme and afterwards as part of a comprehensive aftercare programme.
Support groups and peer networks can also be extremely valuable in managing sobriety fatigue, as it can be helpful to share advice and experiences with others who understand the challenges of recovery. General medical practitioners like your GP may also be able to help or signpost you towards more specialist people and services.
Overcoming Sobriety Fatigue
Overcoming sobriety fatigue is difficult, but it can be done, especially with the proper support in place. A comprehensive rehab and addiction treatment programme will address every aspect of substance misuse, including managing detoxification and the psychological aspects of addiction.
A holistic treatment programme will also provide full aftercare and address issues like nutrition, exercise and lifestyle that are important to an ongoing recovery – including managing sobriety fatigue.
If you have a problem with substance misuse or addiction or are working through sobriety fatigue after treatment, get in touch with Cassiobury Court today to find out how we can help.
