Yes, alcoholics often need a lot of sleep. After all, alcohol is a depressant and can have a sedative effect on the body. As such, it can make people feel tired and lethargic and, as a result, lead to increased sleep needs.
Alcohol also affects the body's natural sleep-wake cycle, disrupting both the quality and quantity of sleep. It can reduce the amount of time spent in REM (rapid eye movement) sleep, the stage of sleep that provides the deepest and most restorative rest. This can lead to fatigue and make it difficult for an alcoholic to stay awake during the day.
Alcohol also increases the body's production of adenosine, a chemical associated with fatigue, which can make people feel even more sleepy and sluggish. Additionally, alcohol can cause dehydration, which can make it even harder to stay alert during the day.
Finally, alcohol use can also lead to anxiety and depression, both of which can cause insomnia and make it hard to fall asleep or stay asleep. This can lead to even more fatigue and an increased need for sleep.
In short, alcoholics often need a lot of sleep due to the effects of alcohol on the body's sleep-wake cycle and the body's production of adenosine. Additionally, alcohol can cause anxiety and depression, which can make it even harder to get a good night's sleep.