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Embarking on a journey to recovery is a commendable decision, but it often comes with numerous challenges, such as withdrawal symptoms. People who attempt to detox on their own without medical supervision may feel overwhelmed during the withdrawal phase and be unable to stick to their recovery goals.
However, experiencing withdrawal is a perfectly normal part of the healing process. In our blog, we will explore what post-acute withdrawal symptoms (PAWS) are and offer you practical tips to manage PAWS and succeed in your recovery journey.
Table of Contents
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Understanding PAWS
Post-acute withdrawal symptoms (PAWS) refer to the symptoms that persist after the acute withdrawal phase is over. While the initial (acute) withdrawal symptoms may last only for a few days, PAWS can trouble a person for weeks and even months after they stop using drugs or alcohol.
PAWS are caused by the changes in brain chemistry. Substance abuse affects neurotransmitters in the brain, and when a person stops consuming drugs or alcohol, their brain needs time to return to a stable state. In some cases, people may still experience PAWS a year after they quit using substances.
Common Symptoms of PAWS
The symptoms of PAWS will depend on a variety of factors—the substance that was abused, the length of substance abuse, whether a person was using one or several substances at the same time, and their physical and mental health. Here is a list of the most common PAWS:
- Irritability and mood swings. It is not uncommon for a person to struggle with their emotions during the recovery process—they may feel anxious, depressed, or angry without any particular reason.
- Drug cravings. Unfortunately, quitting drugs or alcohol does not mean the desire to use will disappear. A person may feel strong cravings during the first months of their sobriety.
- Difficulty sleeping. People in recovery often struggle with insomnia—their sleep is disrupted, they are unable to fall asleep, or they spend only a few hours sleeping, which affects their day-to-day life.
Duration of PAWS
It is difficult to predict how long a person will suffer from post-acute withdrawal symptoms. In general, PAWS will persist for several months after a person quits drugs or alcohol—in most cases, symptoms resolve within six months.
Nonetheless, a person’s medical history and personal circumstances may mean PAWS will last longer—some individuals report withdrawal symptoms that trouble them for over a year. It is advised to reach out to a healthcare provider to develop a personalized recovery plan that will suit your needs.
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Tips to Manage PAWS
While PAWS can be an obstacle on your road to recovery, there are ways to deal with the symptoms and make your life easier:
- Eat properly and stay hydrated. Your nutrition affects both your physical and mental health—make sure your diet includes all the necessary food groups and drink at least eight glasses of water a day.
- Build a support system. Do not go through this challenge on your own—share your struggles with your family and friends, join a local support group, and consider therapy to address the root cause of your addiction.
- Exercise regularly. There are numerous benefits to physical activity—from a boost in mood to reduced levels of stress. Something as simple as a daily thirty-minute walk may do wonders for your health!
How Touchstone Recovery Center Can Help You
Professional Help for PAWS
You do not have to handle post-acute withdrawal symptoms on your own—reach out to Touchstone Recovery Center to get the help you need. A team of experts will be able to diagnose your symptoms, come up with a treatment plan that suits your requirements, and support you on your recovery journey.
Benefit From Working With Touchstone Recovery.
When you choose to be assisted by Touchstone, you get access to a wide range of services:
- Different types of therapy (including individual and family therapy)
- Medication management
- Holistic treatments (such as yoga and art therapy)
The road to recovery may be full of challenges, but with Touchstone Recovery Center by your side, you will be able to overcome them!
FAQs
What are post-acute withdrawal symptoms?
Post-acute withdrawal symptoms (PAWS) are the symptoms that a person may experience after they stop using drugs or alcohol. They are caused by the changes in the brain chemistry and persist for weeks and months after the substance use is discontinued.
What are the symptoms of PAWS?
There are numerous symptoms of PAWS—a person may struggle with their mood (anxiety, depression), feel physically unwell (headaches, nausea), and have cravings to use drugs or alcohol.
How long do post-withdrawal symptoms last?
On average, PAWS persists for a few months; many people resolve this issue within half a year. In certain cases, PAWS may last longer, especially if a person does not get any support or treatment.
How do you deal with post-acute withdrawal?
There are several things you can do to manage PAWS—stick to a healthy diet, exercise regularly, share your struggles with the support system around you, and visit a doctor to get professional help.
Should you get professional help to treat PAWS?
It is recommended to see a doctor when you start experiencing PAWS – a healthcare provider will be able to diagnose you properly and come up with a treatment plan that suits your needs.
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Reach Out to Touchstone Recovery Center
Dealing with post-acute withdrawal symptoms may seem daunting, yet when you are equipped with the knowledge from our guide and have Touchstone Recovery Center by your side, your chances of recovery will greatly increase. Manage your symptoms with the help of qualified professionals—contact Touchstone Recovery Center to book your first appointment.
