In addition to medical treatment resources, be sure to seek out relationships with people who support your recovery – like support groups and recovery coaches. Post-acute withdrawal syndrome (PAWS) is a prolonged withdrawal condition that follows the acute phase, which lasts days to weeks and mainly involves physical symptoms. PAWS, however, consists of mainly psychological and emotional issues that may last for months or even years following substance discontinuation.
Our compassionate and experienced team is ready to guide you through the journey of overcoming addiction. It takes tremendous courage to decide to stop using drugs or alcohol and begin the path toward recovery. However, the challenges of withdrawal don’t always end after the initial phase of stopping.
Offer emotional support
During this neuroadaptation, you may experience mood swings, anxiety, sleep problems, and “brain fog.” PAWS is not a setback; it’s part of the recovery process. Tracking your triggers, managing stress, and taking care of your basic needs might help keep your symptoms in control. Therapy and support groups can help you cope with the mental and physical stress of PAWS. Maintaining good sleep hygiene is crucial for individuals facing PAWS. Establish a consistent sleep schedule by going to bed and waking up at the same time each day.
Why Does Post-Acute Withdrawal Syndrome Occur?
- PAWS symptoms can be frustrating because they don’t follow a predictable pattern.
- Establishing structure can help stabilize your mood and energy levels.
- Our experienced and compassionate team has an in-depth understanding of the unique challenges of post-acute withdrawal syndrome.
- Therapy and support groups can help you cope with the mental and physical stress of PAWS.
Start with your primary care physician for a referral to addiction specialists. Note any triggers or events that may have caused or worsened symptoms. Content clinically reviewed and medically verified by licensed experts to meet California Prime Recovery’s highest standards of trust, transparency, and evidence-based care. As time goes on, your PAWS symptoms will lessen and eventually disappear. Managing Post-Acute Withdrawal Syndrome requires a comprehensive approach that addresses both symptoms and underlying recovery needs.
Cocaine Withdrawal After 3 Weeks: What You Need to Know
However, anecdotal reports suggest that some symptoms persist for up to a decade following cessation. The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) confirms that benzodiazepine drug addiction withdrawal symptoms can last weeks to years. In a person with an addiction to benzodiazepines, for example, lasting withdrawal symptoms can stem from functional changes to the neuroreceptors in the central nervous system. Up to 15% of people who have taken benzodiazepines long term experience PAWS.
- Dr. Lembke notes, “Addiction and PAWS can strain relationships, so it’s essential to work on rebuilding trust and fostering healthy connections with loved ones.”
- Your symptoms might spike during high-stress periods or when encountering triggers, then subside during calmer times.
- At Resolute Recovery, we provide comprehensive addiction recovery support tailored to your needs.
Crucial Things to Know About the Alcohol Withdrawal Timeline
In addition to reducing the risk of relapse, understanding PAWS can also help individuals develop a greater sense of self-efficacy and control over their recovery. The timeline of PAWS can vary depending on the substance and individual factors, but it typically peaks within the first few months after the initial withdrawal. For some substances, such as opioids, the peak of PAWS may occur around 2-3 months into recovery, as noted by the American Society of Addiction Medicine (ASAM).
- Medical and psychological support can be beneficial in managing withdrawal and promoting long-term recovery.
- If a person with substance misuse disorder abruptly stops using the substance, they may experience withdrawal symptoms.
- When selecting a therapist, look for professionals with experience in addiction recovery and PAWS management.
- Educating loved ones about the symptoms and timeline of PAWS can help reduce misunderstandings and conflicts that may arise during the recovery process.
- Coping with mood-related PAWS symptoms requires a multifaceted approach.
Family therapy and couples counseling can also be beneficial for strengthening relationships and improving communication skills. Dr. Lembke notes, “Addiction and PAWS can strain relationships, so it’s essential https://orangetheoryfitness.co.il/why-relapse-is-a-part-of-the-recovery-journey-and/ to work on rebuilding trust and fostering healthy connections with loved ones.” Experts recommend engaging in at least 30 minutes of moderate-intensity exercise most days of the week. This can include activities such as walking, jogging, swimming, or cycling. Hazelden Betty Ford offers compassionate, evidence-based care for every stage of recovery.
The long-term effects of substance use, particularly in alcohol withdrawal syndrome, can contribute to the variability in duration and severity. PAWS refers to a group of symptoms that appear after the “acute” stage of opioid withdrawal. MHA Screening is an educational program intended to help inform people about options they have in getting help for mental health issues. It may suggest tools and resources that offer information, treatment services, self-help (or “DIY”) tools, and/or ways to connect with others. For any and all suggestions, comments, or questions, please contact Mental Health America. PAWS can manifest differently for each individual and may vary depending on factors such as the type of substance abused, duration of use, and individual physiology.
If you used a large amount of opioids for a long period of time, you are more likely to experience PAWS. PAWS can manifest with various physical symptoms, including headaches, muscle aches, tremors, and gastrointestinal issues such as nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea. These symptoms may arise as the body adjusts to the absence of the substance and can contribute to discomfort and distress during the recovery process. Persistent feelings of exhaustion and low energy levels are common symptoms of PAWS. Despite adequate rest, individuals may struggle to regain their energy and may find even simple tasks to be overwhelming. This fatigue can impact daily functioning and diminish motivation, hindering progress in recovery efforts.
When to Seek Help for PAWS
You can control the symptoms with professional oversight and medical intervention at a treatment center. Working with a substance use specialist can provide methods and medications to combat PAWS symptoms. PAWS is a set of impairments that happen immediately after you experience withdrawal from alcohol post-acute withdrawal syndrome or other substances. As it tries to reach equilibrium, it causes brain chemicals to fluctuate until they’re stable.