Sleeping Pills
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Why Sleeping Pills?
Sleeping pills, including prescription medications like benzodiazepines and non-benzodiazepine sedative-hypnotics, are commonly prescribed to manage insomnia and other sleep disorders.
While effective for short-term use, prolonged consumption can lead to tolerance, dependence, and eventually addiction. Individuals may find themselves needing higher doses to achieve the same effect, leading to misuse and potential health risks.
Stats Around World and Pakistan
Aged 20 and Over in USA
Using Sleeping Pills in Pakistan
Globally, the misuse of sleeping pills is a growing concern. In the United States, approximately 4% of adults aged 20 and over reported using prescription sleep aids in the past month.
In Pakistan, a study conducted in urban communities of Karachi found that 31.3% of respondents reported insomnia, with 30.2% of them using sleep medicines.
Additionally, the prevalence of self-medication in Karachi was found to be 84.8%, indicating a high tendency towards unsupervised use of medications, including sleeping pills.
Effects of Sleeping Pills on The Body
Cognitive Impairment
Long-term use can lead to memory loss, confusion, poor concentration, and impaired decision-making abilities. In severe cases, it may contribute to dementia-like symptoms.
Physical Dependence
The body adapts to the medication, requiring higher doses over time to achieve the same effect. Sudden discontinuation can cause withdrawal symptoms, including tremors, sweating, and severe anxiety.
Respiratory Issues
Sleeping pills depress the central nervous system, slowing breathing and oxygen intake. This can be life-threatening, especially when combined with alcohol or other sedatives.
Mental Health Disorders
Prolonged use is linked to an increased risk of depression, anxiety, paranoia, mood swings, and suicidal thoughts.
Increased Risk of Falls & Accidents
Sleeping pills impair motor coordination and reaction time, increasing the likelihood of falls, fractures, and car accidents, particularly in older adults.
Cardiovascular Risks
Some studies suggest that long-term use of certain sleeping medications may increase the risk of heart disease, irregular heartbeat, and high blood pressure.
Gastrointestinal Issues
Long-term use of sleeping pills can cause nausea, constipation, bloating, and stomach pain. It may also increase the risk of gastritis and acid reflux.
Rebound Insomnia
When individuals try to stop taking sleeping pills, they may experience worse insomnia than before, making it harder to quit.
How We Treat Sleeping Pills Addiction?
Comprehensive Assessment & Treatment Planning
- Evaluate medication use and medical history
- Screen for co-occurring mental health disorders
- Create a personalized treatment roadmap
Medically Supervised Detoxification
- Gradual tapering of sleeping pills
- Monitor and manage withdrawal symptoms
- Ensure 24/7 medical supervision during detox
Psychological Therapy & Counseling
- Conduct CBT to change harmful patterns
- Use motivational techniques to build insight
- Address emotional triggers and root causes
Family Therapy & Support Integration
- Educate families about addiction recovery
- Improve trust and communication at home
- Involve loved ones in therapy sessions
Holistic Therapies & Sleep Restoration
- Teach relaxation and mindfulness practices
- Provide education on healthy sleep hygiene
- Restore natural sleep without medication
Aftercare Planning & Relapse Prevention
- Develop a structured relapse prevention plan
- Offer ongoing support and follow-up care
- Connect clients with support groups
