Millions of people struggle with sleep every night. This leaves many people seeking synthetic solutions and substances. However, it is important to be careful when it comes to using substances for sleep because there can be many negative side effects. This includes side effects associated with Ambien. People also wonder, “Is Ambien addictive?” The answer is, “Yes, there is potential for dependence.” The good news is that there are many other alternatives to help you with sleep struggles, as well as effective recovery options if you are addicted to Ambien.
Is Ambien Addictive?
When asking the question, “Is Ambien addictive?” it is important to distinguish the difference between addiction and dependence. Addiction is when an individual changes their behavior in association with a certain substance or process (like with alcohol or gambling addiction). Dependence, on the other hand, refers to when an individual becomes physically used to taking a substance and may feel withdrawal when the substance is taken away.
While there are instances of Ambien addiction, people tend to fall into the dependency camp when it comes to their use of Ambien. However, it is also important to note that addiction and/or dependence on Ambien is considered less likely if one is using it as prescribed. This is why following a doctor’s instructions with any controlled substance is so important.
Better Understanding Ambien
Many people have heard of Ambien (the brand name for the drug zolpidem) as a sleep aid, but are not exactly sure of what it is or how it works. According to Health Psychology Research, “Zolpidem is a sedative-hypnotic type medication used for the treatment of insomnia in adults. It comes in both immediate and extended-release forms; the immediate release preparations are used to treat symptoms related to delayed sleep onset. The extended-release preparation treats both delayed sleep onset and decreased sleep latency.”
There is a very key word in that definition, “insomnia.” Insomnia is a very severe form of sleep struggle that should be taken very seriously and is much more than simply having a bad night’s sleep. Many people seek out Ambien because they feel that they are struggling with insomnia, when in actuality, they may be dealing with some more minor issues of sleeplessness or restlessness. A responsible doctor will be able to determine this difference and offer other alternatives to Ambien, as it is a more intense form of pharmacotherapy. Yet, some doctors misdiagnose and prescribe Ambien when it is not needed.
It is also important to be open and honest with doctors about mental health issues and any history of addiction because this can make you more susceptible to addiction to Ambien. If you feel that you are struggling with Ambien addiction and/or dependence, it is important to seek professional help as soon as possible. Of course, you will have to know the signs and symptoms of addiction to look out for.
The Signs and Symptoms of Ambien Addiction
The signs and symptoms of Ambien addiction are likely going to vary based on the individual and the situation, but there are some universal signs to look out for. The following are just a few of those signs and symptoms:
- Acting aggressively
- Feeling overly anxious and/or depressed
- Struggles with memory
- Feeling unusually drowsy
- Having a lack of coordination
- Experiencing nightmare
- Feeling impaired while driving or operating machinery
- Isolating away from loved ones
- Struggles with cognitions
- Having delayed reaction times
- Experiencing suicidal ideations
As you can see, these can be very serious side effects. Reaching out for professional help sooner rather than later can mean the difference between short-term side effects and long-term consequences.
Is Ambien Addictive? Treating Ambien Addiction
The good news is that there are many alternatives to using Ambien for sleep issues. Of course, if addiction is present, that must be managed first. One effective way to address addiction is to utilize psychotherapy. Psychotherapies like cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) can help get to the underlying issues as to why you may struggle with sleep in the first place. It can also help to address and mitigate addictive behaviors.
Holistic healing options are also ideal for treating an addiction associated with sleep. This is because physical modalities like yoga therapy can help an indivdual exert energy and ready them for a healthier night’s sleep.
Mindfulness meditation can also be highly beneficial for dealing with Ambien addiction because it can address the racing thoughts that are often associated with sleeplessness. Meditation can also help to calm the mind and has even been shown to slow the heart rate and lower blood pressure, both of which can factor into a better night’s sleep.
A Focus on Long-Term Success at The Phoenix Recovery Center
Here at The Phoenix Recovery Center, we believe in long-term success over short-term “fixes.” That is also why we feel there are often better options for sleeplessness than reliance on substances (in most cases). Our promise is that all of our recovery plans are individualized and comprehensive, with a focus on the future.
Stop losing sleep over losing sleep. The time to recover is now. You can do this! We can help!
Many people are unaware of the dangers of Ambien misuse. It is important to understand the potential for dependence on Ambien (zolpidem) and the signs of addiction to look out for. This can help when it comes to figuring out safe usage practices and alternative options for managing insomnia. If you feel like you or a loved one is struggling with issues of addiction, mental illness, or co-occurring disorders, we can help get you on the right road to long-term recovery right away. You don’t have to go through this process alone. To begin your healing journey complete this short form or call The Phoenix Recovery Center at (801) 438-3185.
