Tired After Quitting Alcohol? A Guide to Answer Why and What to Do

Quitting alcohol can be an important step in a person’s life–the beginning of a new, healthier chapter of recovery. If you’ve taken this step, you can feel good knowing that better days lie ahead. Still, it is common to experience some bumps along the way, and one of them is a feeling of fatigue in the immediate aftermath of quitting alcohol. If you have this condition–what some call “sobriety fatigue”–you’re not alone. Here at Aware Recovery Care, we understand how frustrating it can be to feel so tired in early recovery, and we’re here to give you the guidance you need. Keep reading to learn more about sobriety fatigue, as well as some helpful tips for how to manage it. 

Why Are You Tired After Quitting Alcohol?

Feeling tired after quitting alcohol is quite common, and it can result from a variety of factors. Understanding sobriety fatigue is essential to knowing how to address it. 

First, your body and brain are undergoing major changes. The body is going through a period of detoxification and healing. This process, while essential, can really tire out your brain and body. So, be patient with yourself. 

Next, keep in mind that excessive alcohol consumption disrupts sleep. Even when you do sleep, that sleep is usually fitful, lacking the kind of deep rest needed to restore your body. If you’re now in your early days of recovery, your body still has a long way to go to regulate itself and establish a regular sleep cycle. Furthermore, alcohol abuse can lead to major nutritional deficiencies, which can result in fatigue. As your body heals and your diet improves, you may well see some improvement. 

Lastly, you shouldn’t underestimate the emotional toll of early recovery. Many people who have struggled with a substance use disorder have also struggled with a wide range of emotional and mental challenges–loneliness, stress, trauma, and more. As your mental and emotional state improves, you may find yourself feeling more energized in your daily life.

How Long Are You Tired After Quitting Alcohol?

The length of your sobriety fatigue varies based on a range of factors–some having to do with your drinking history, and some having to do with your overall health. 

Your fatigue may last a few weeks, or it may last for months. Don’t lose heart, though. You’re tired because you are turning your life around, making a change for the better. It’s important to have patience as your body adjusts. Your fatigue will diminish as you get healthier.  

If your fatigue lasts longer than a few months, though, you may want to consider discussing the condition with a medical professional.

How Can You Manage Fatigue After Quitting Alcohol?

Finding healthy and effective ways to manage your fatigue will help you work toward long-term success. Let’s explore some helpful strategies.

Self-Care

The term self-care is increasingly popular these days, and it includes a range of possible options. Are there some activities that bring you joy and relaxation? Maybe you enjoy long walks, watching movies, playing sports, spending time with loved ones–whatever brings you a sense of peace and ease in your life, you should pursue. Give yourself permission to do these things, and allow yourself to rest when you need to rest.

Regular Sleep

Getting on a regular sleep schedule will work wonders for you. To ensure the highest quality sleep, you’ll also want to figure out a calm bedtime routine to help you wind down and achieve a deep, restful state. You’ll also want to avoid screens and caffeine before bed.

Nutrition

Years of alcohol abuse can take a toll on your body. As you work your way back to health, eating a healthy, balanced diet will be essential to your recovery. Be sure to consume foods rich in vitamins and minerals. You may even want to ask a doctor to test for any deficiencies so that you can address them in your food consumption. Furthermore, it is absolutely essential to stay hydrated.

Exercise

Consistent physical activity helps improve energy levels and mood. You can start with light exercises, things like walking, stretching, and yoga. As your energy improves, you can increase the intensity of your workouts. Exercise releases endorphins, which can help you overcome lethargy, fatigue, and low moods.

Mental Health and Stress Management

It’s important to manage stress and take good care of your mental health. A self-care routine can go a long way, and you may also want to explore getting professional help. People in recovery also benefit from participating in mutual-aid fellowships like Alcoholics Anonymous, where you can find peer support from people who know how you feel.

When Should You Get Help?

If you’ve tried implementing healthy habits and you still find yourself deeply fatigued, you should seek professional guidance. Persistent fatigue may be caused by underlying causes that a medical professional can address. 
The in-home addiction treatment (IHAT) program offered by Aware is one option for individuals suffering from addiction and seeking lasting recovery from the comfort of home. Aware offers evidence-based support services, including medication management, peer support, community connections, family support, and more. This comprehensive approach can help you stop drinking and stay stopped, all while supporting your overall health and wellbeing.

Next Steps

Quitting drinking can be the beginning of a beautiful new chapter in your life, and you shouldn’t let fatigue stand in the way. If you’re looking for a comprehensive approach to treating your addiction and supporting your health, you can implement some of the self-care practices mentioned above. 
If you feel you need more hands-on, professional support, the IHAT program at Aware can be part of your solution. Here at Aware, we boast a 78% recovery success rate and a completion rate 2.5 times higher than that of traditional rehabs. We provide convenience, privacy, flexibility, and the ability to pursue treatment at home, which  means you don’t have to put your life on hold. Contact us to begin your treatment today.