Drug and alcohol addiction can lead to severe, sometimes life-threatening complications in your mental and physical health. Repeated use of addictive substances can change how the brain and body function, making it very challenging to stop when you choose.
Many with addiction require comprehensive treatment and continuing support. Comprehensive treatment programs may begin with a medically-supported detox program. A detox program provides medications, emotional support, and holistic therapies that allow people to have a safe, complete detox.
Detox can be very challenging. People often experience uncomfortable or dangerous withdrawal symptoms throughout the process. In most cases, withdrawal symptoms last for days or weeks. However, some people develop a condition called post-acute withdrawal syndrome (PAWS).
People with PAWS experience withdrawal symptoms that last for months or longer. Post-acute withdrawal syndrome can make it very challenging for people to avoid relapse.
This article will explore PAWS and how to manage it. You will learn:
What you will learn:
- What post-acute withdrawal syndrome is
- The symptoms of post-acute withdrawal syndrome
- How to manage PAWS
- Where to find substance abuse treatment and support
If you or someone you love struggle with long-lasting withdrawal symptoms, help is available at Alamo Behavioral Health. Contact our intake specialists to learn about our programs or schedule an intake appointment.
What is Post-Acute Withdrawal Syndrome (PAWS)?
Drug and alcohol withdrawal occurs in two stages. First, people go through acute withdrawal. People experience the onset of withdrawal symptoms during this stage. Typically, the acute withdrawal stage lasts a few days or weeks, depending on the substance used, dose, and other factors.
Possible acute withdrawal symptoms include:
- Elevated heart rate
- Nausea and vomiting
- Mood swings
- Anxiety
- Depression
- Insomnia or sleep disturbances
- Agitation
- Tremors
- Excessive sweating
People may experience intense cravings during the acute withdrawal phase, which increases the risk of relapse.
Some people experience dangerous or severe complications during withdrawal. These include:
- Seizures
- Hallucinations
- Dehydration
- Coma
People with active addiction and those in withdrawal require comprehensive emotional and physical support.
Recognizing the Symptoms of PAWS
While many people have short-lived withdrawal symptoms that last just days or weeks, some people develop a condition called post-acute withdrawal syndrome (PAWS). People with PAWS experience long-lasting mental health symptoms, including:
- Fatigue
- Foggy thinking
- Cravings
- Aggression
- Depression
- Nightmares or sleep disturbances
- Apathy
- Low energy
- Poor concentration
- Panic attacks
- Irritability
- Lower stress tolerance
- Low motivation
- Anxiety
- Poor concentration
People do not typically have long-term physical symptoms, but these mental health symptoms can jeopardize long-term recovery.
Post-acute withdrawal symptoms can vary, depending on the substance people abuse. PAWS is more common among people with a history of mental health disorders or severe addiction.
How to Manage Post-Acute Withdrawal Syndrome
People who develop PAWS may feel frustrated by their lingering symptoms. They may feel like they will never be able to move forward. Living with long-lasting symptoms can be exhausting and discouraging.
There are several coping strategies people with PAWS can use to manage their symptoms. Here is an overview of some of the steps people can take to manage PAWS.
Practice self-care
Self-care means more than simply responding to stress. It means structuring your life to allow you to meet your physical and emotional needs.
Eating well, reducing stress, exercising regularly, and prioritizing sleep can improve your physical health. These habits can improve sleep, help with emotional regulation, and naturally increase energy levels. Practicing good self-care can help you feel your best while living with PAWS.
Learn about PAWS
Learning about the common symptoms of PAWS and hearing other’s experiences can help to reduce isolation or loneliness in recovery. It can be beneficial to join a support group of people living with PAWS or learn about the condition from trusted sources.
Get support
Living with PAWS can feel isolating or lonely. It can feel like you are the only one struggling with these symptoms. Finding support can help you feel less alone as you navigate this condition.
Addiction treatment centers may offer support groups that provide specific guidance for people with PAWS. People must also receive mental health support and medical treatment to help them stay focused on recovery throughout challenging times.
Seek medical treatment
If the symptoms of PAWS are disrupting your life, medical treatment may be necessary. Your doctor may be able to recommend prescription or over-the-counter medications to reduce PAWS symptoms.
Living with post-acute withdrawal syndrome can feel like a significant setback in your recovery process. Getting the right treatment and support can help you manage your symptoms and improve your quality of life.
Find Treatment Now
If you or someone you love struggles with long-lasting withdrawal symptoms or you need addiction treatment, you are not alone. Contact the Alamo Behavioral Health specialists to learn more about our post-acute withdrawal syndrome (PAWS) treatment and support programs.
Reach out to our intake specialists to ask questions, verify your insurance, or schedule an intake appointment.
References:
- National Institute of Health (NIH): Post-acute Withdrawal Syndrome
- Science Direct: Identification and Evidence-Based Treatment of Post–Acute Withdrawal Syndrome
- NIH: Management of Post-Acute Alcohol Withdrawal: A Mixed-Studies Scoping Review
