Sleeping disorders and the inability to sleep is a common issue in the United States, with 48% of Americans reporting insomnia on occasion, while 22% consistently suffer from an inability to sleep each night. Females tend to have a higher rate of insomnia, as much as 1.3 times more than their male counterparts, according to the Cleveland Clinic.
Sleeping Pills Defined
Sleeping pills can be in over-the-counter forms or in prescriptions from doctors. They help alleviate symptoms of restless sleep, inability to sleep, chronic insomnia, depression, and even anxiety. They act by suppressing the nervous system which allows the body to calm down and relax making rest easier. Unfortunately, these pills are known to be very addictive, and with regular use over time, they can cause an individual to build up a tolerance, thus increasing the need for more. As the need increases, so do the development of dependence on the pills.
Side Effects of Sleeping Pills
Long-term use of sleeping pills that lead to dependence can result in withdrawal symptoms when one decides to cut use cold turkey. Additionally, there are other negative side effects that may result from the use, even when one is using the pills as directed.
- Drowsiness during the day
- Groggy, consistent tired feelings
- Confusion
- Memory issues
- Inability to balance
- Inability to drive, walk, eat, or function during normal daily activities
Sleeping pills have many upsides for those that struggle with getting in a good night’s rest. That doesn’t mean that they should be taken without caution. When used over a long duration of time, there can be serious negative impacts associated with the pills. They can actually counter sleep efforts, lead to addiction, and even cause health issues to arise.
Overdose Symptoms
It is possible to overdose on sleeping pills. If one takes more than is directed at one time or if one takes these pills along with alcohol, the effects can be deadly. In most situations, those who overdose of sleeping pills, happen by it accidentally. In some circumstances, severely depressed individuals may actually deliberately try to overdose and commit suicide.
Symptoms of overdose include:
- Extreme lethargy
- Breathing issues
- Abdominal discomfort
- Loss of appetite/inability to eat or take in nutrition
- Constipation
- Clumsiness/loss of balance
When one combines alcohol with sleeping pills, the results can include:
- Drowsiness
- Dizziness/disorientation
- Memory problems
- Slowed heart rate
- Impaired motor control
- Difficulty breathing
- Lowered blood pressure
- Unusual behavior
- High risk of overdose
- Death
Getting Help
If you are struggling with your addiction to sleeping pills, there is hope. The medical detox and addiction treatment center alternative at Discovery Place provides stable and supportive surroundings to help you overcome your addiction. We can assist you in managing both the physical and psychological symptoms of withdrawal in the most comfortable manner.
Our alternative treatment center addresses every aspect of your overall healing with our well-rounded programs. Your ability to overcome your addiction is a realistic goal and you can do it with some help and support. To learn more about our programs call us at 1-800-725-0922. Our respectful and caring staff are here to help you 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. Your successful recovery is within reach, contact us today.
