For some individuals, falling asleep can be a serious challenge. Daily stressors, countless responsibilities, and poor mental health can negatively impact an individual’s ability to achieve an adequate amount of sleep. It is common for people to try natural supplements but when all else fails, traditional medicine such as Ambien may seem like the best choice. Although certain sleep medications such as Ambien can be helpful, they can come with serious risks to one’s health. Therefore, holistic care at Avalon Malibu can be a safe alternative to prescription medications. Taking a holistic approach can effectively promote better sleep without the harmful side effects of Ambien.
What Is Ambien?
Zolpidem, also referred to as Ambien, is a non-benzodiazepine receptor modulator that is usually prescribed for temporary and chronic insomnia. Ambien is part of the control substance class C IV group and is regulated by the Drug Enforcement Agency (DEA). Unfortunately, this sedative-hypnotic drug is commonly abused.
The prescription medication relieves sleep challenges by helping people fall asleep, stay asleep, and have fewer awakenings. Ambien is often taken for seven to ten days before improvement is seen. If someone still experiences problems sleeping while using the drug, they are advised to seek further care.
The Warning Signs of Ambien Addiction
According to the Journal of Research in Medical Sciences, a wide body of research has reported the safety and efficacy of Zolpidem in treating insomnia. Although there may be few abuse and dependence capability reports, many cases of Zolpidem misuse are still reported worldwide.
For example, numerous cases in the U.S. and various European countries have highlighted that Zolpidem can cause a euphoric mood, increased tolerance, and uncomfortable withdrawal symptoms. Further studies have reported that pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics may play a critical role in cases of non-benzodiazepine dependence, abuse, and withdrawal syndrome.Â
Signs of Ambien side effects or dependence include:
- Frequent blackouts
- Sleepwalking
- Promiscuous behavior
- Odd behavior with little to no memory
- Uninhibited sociability and talkativeness
- Impaired coordination and balance
- Low mood
- Confusion
- Trembling
- Unsteady gate
- Hallucinations
Why Is Sleep So Important?
Living with untreated insomnia can have negative effects on many aspects of an individual’s life. Sleep is a critical part of one’s routine and effort to maintain well-being. Of course, it is important to gain an adequate amount of rest to stay productive during the day. The better a person sleeps, the better their mental and physical health tends to be. For example, getting enough sleep can promote healthy weight management, good brain function, and heart health. Good sleep can also improve relationships, enhance academic progress, and boost an individual’s work performance.
Holistic Care Versus Traditional Medicine
Choosing the most effective type of treatment for any health complication can feel like an overwhelming process. Some individuals may be quick to pick the traditional pharmaceutical route. Although medicine may bring immediate relief, an individual may build an increased tolerance over time, which can lead to Ambien abuse.
Holistic care is a more natural, whole-person approach that provides an individualized path forward. This type of care addresses an individual’s physical, mental, emotional, social, intellectual, and spiritual aspects. Although holistic services may require more effort, taking on a more natural approach typically comes with fewer side effects. What’s more, holistic options tend to be enjoyable and can often be used at any time, which is empowering. These options also create long-lasting results and promote a safer outcome.
Some advantages that can come from incorporating holistic methods to treat insomnia include:
- Improved immune system
- Better pain management
- Lower cost
- Improved mood
- Little to no side effects
- Effective relapse prevention
Developing an Individualized Treatment Plan to Gain the Most From Holistic Care
Knowing that choosing the right treatment option can be a stressful process, we at Avalon Malibu offer individualized treatment plans with compassionate and experienced specialists. These thoughtful, collaborative plans reduce the hassle of trial and error and make for a more enjoyable healing experience. A trained specialist may work closely with people to get to know their strengths, history, and goals. It may feel uncomfortable to discuss one’s medical history, but doing so can allow a specialist to develop the best comprehensive treatment plan for a lasting recovery.
Holistic Care Options for Insomnia at Avalon Malibu
After discussing the pros and cons of holistic care, the next step would be to review different holistic treatment methods that may apply to the individual’s needs. For example, engaging in yoga and meditation, art, music, and writing therapy can improve an individual’s ability to sleep. Different types of talk therapy can also provide certain skills and unique coping mechanisms to target and manage stress for improved sleep quality. It is important to note that staying dedicated to treatment can ensure the most benefit from treatment and help people establish better quality lives.
Avalon Malibu’s mental health and addiction treatment center is a world-renowned residential addiction and mental health treatment center in California. We are dedicated to healing adults experiencing substance use disorders (SUDs) as well as psychiatric and mental health issues. The difference? We focus on potential, not pathology. At Avalon Malibu, our approach for treatment is to ensure each individual has access to a range of holistic therapies specifically designed to meet their unique needs. We take pride in our highly-trained, professional staff that is diverse and understanding, representing a variety of specialties. Call Avalon Malibu at (844) 857-5992 for support with finding the cause of your insomnia and using holistic methods to achieve proper sleep.Â
