Can You Still Sleep On Meth? How Meth Affects Sleep

As a Schedule II drug, methamphetamine is used clinically to treat ADHD and other conditions. However, many use the drug recreationally..

The substance is used in a variety of ways, all of which can pose their own dangers and risks to your well-being.

Meth can have countless side effects, both long-term and short-term, that can range in severity. In fact, meth can even affect your quality of sleep and sleep patterns.

Side Effects Of Meth Use That May Disturb Sleep

Using meth can disturb your ability to sleep. Unlike some other risks associated with methamphetamine abuse, sleep disturbances can occur with use no matter how frequent or infrequent it is.

There are several side effects methamphetamine can have on your body that make sleep disturbances more likely.

Hyperactivity

One common side effect that can occur immediately after using meth is hyperactivity. Hyperactivity refers to excessive movements or fidgeting.

If you’re constantly moving around, it can be difficult to get adequate sleep.

Euphoria

Another common side effect of meth is a feeling of euphoria or a rush. This is often the reason people use methamphetamine.

The rush of neurotransmitters like dopamine and serotonin during a meth high can make it hard to fall asleep.

Restlessness

Similar to hyperactivity, many people experience restlessness when they use methamphetamine. While restlessness can make it hard to sleep, it also can make it hard to even relax or rest.

Increased Attention

Lastly, a side effect associated with meth abuse that can affect your sleep is increased attention. Meth is a stimulant drug, meaning it can cause increased wakefulness and attention.

As your brain is paying extra attention to all of its surroundings, you may find it challenging to turn off your thoughts and sleep.

How The Meth Comedown And Withdrawal Affect Sleep

Though short-term effects of meth use can make sleeping more difficult, you may struggle to sleep even after you stop using the drug.

This is because the feeling associated with your high ending, known as the meth comedown, and meth withdrawal are associated with some unpleasant symptoms.

Poor Sleep Quality

After coming down from your high or going through withdrawal, you may find that your sleep is of poor quality.

This is because the increase of neurotransmitters your brain experiences while high is quickly depleted, which can affect many bodily functions.

Onset Of Narcolepsy

The link between meth use and narcolepsy is a bit confusing and complex, since meth is often used to treat narcolepsy.

However, when abused, it can create bigger issues that lead to the onset of narcolepsy. This is because you may not have been sleeping at regular times when you were using meth.

Decreased Sleep Time

Lastly, coming down from meth or experiencing withdrawal from it can lead to a decrease in overall sleep time.

This can be due to insomnia or even other withdrawal symptoms preventing you from sleeping. It may take time for your body to adjust back to its normal sleeping patterns after meth use.

Health Risks Of Prolonged Sleep Deprivation

While sleep deprivation can be annoying and leave you struggling to make it through the day, it can also be dangerous.

Your body functions and relies on sleep, so when you don’t get enough, this can make it difficult for bodily systems to work properly.

Health risks from sleep deprivation can lead to issues over time such as increased blood pressure, diabetes, psychosis, and heart attack.

Development Of Mental Illness

One risk of sleep deprivation is the development of a mental illness. For example, some people may develop depression, anxiety, or even bipolar disorder from meth-induced insomnia.

Mental illness often requires professional treatment and sometimes therapy to help you cope.

Irritability

Another less serious but still frustrating risk of sleep deprivation is irritability. Irritability not only makes day-to-day life frustrating for you but can also cause issues in other areas of your life.

Specifically, increased irritability can make it difficult to complete daily tasks and maintain relationships with others.

Mood Swings

Finally, many people experience mood swings when they aren’t getting enough sleep. This can make it challenging to get through the day and deal with any obstacles.

Treating Meth-Induced Insomnia

Insomnia due to meth can be aggravating and difficult to deal with. However, it can be treated.

Some treatments for insomnia can be done at home by changing habits while others may require attention from a medical professional.

At-home treatments for insomnia may include:

• cutting out caffeine
• meditation
• exercise
• creating a sleep schedule
• cutting out alcohol
• taking supplements like melatonin

If you’re still struggling with insomnia, you may need professional medical advice. Professional insomnia treatment can include therapy and medication.

Treatment Programs For Methamphetamine Abuse

The first step in recovering from meth-induced sleeping problems is getting treatment for substance abuse.

It can be challenging to find a treatment center that you can trust, so we’ve done the work for you.

Located in Massachusetts, Bedrock Recovery Center is a highly rated facility to begin your recovery.

We offer meth addiction treatment, as well as care for all substance use disorders, and tailor our treatment to suit your individual needs.

From detox support to help with cravings, medication-assisted treatment, recovery education, therapy, support groups, and inpatient or outpatient programs, you’ll be on your way to a successful recovery.

Find Drug And Alcohol Treatment Services At Bedrock Recovery Center

Are you or your loved one ready to recover from meth addiction? Call our helpline at Bedrock Recovery Center today.