Why might I be unable to sleep after drinking alcohol and how can I improve my sleep?

Drinking alcohol can affect your sleep in several ways. It might seem like alcohol helps you fall asleep faster, but it can actually cause sleep problems during the night. One study found that alcohol consumption is linked to sleep issues, such as waking up often or feeling tired in the morning.

Another study showed that alcohol can cause your legs to move a lot while you sleep, which can wake you up. This is called periodic limb movements. This makes it hard to stay asleep and get good rest.

To help improve your sleep:

• Avoid alcohol before bed: Try not to drink alcohol close to bedtime.
• Create a bedtime routine: Go to bed at the same time every night and do calming activities like reading.
• Make your bedroom comfortable: Keep your room dark, quiet, and cool.

If you keep having trouble sleeping, talk to a healthcare provider for more help. For mental health concerns, visit 988lifeline.org.