Many individuals experience lingering symptoms that can persist for weeks, months, or even years after stopping substance use. This condition, known as Post-Acute Withdrawal Syndrome, represents a critical but often overlooked phase of the recovery journey. While it can feel overwhelming at times, symptoms typically diminish in frequency and severity with time. By taking a proactive approach to physical, mental, emotional, and social well-being, a person can reduce the impact of PAWS and support their own long-term recovery.
PAWS Timeline: How Long Symptoms Last
In the beginning, post-acute withdrawal symptoms may begin to feel as if you are on an emotional rollercoaster, with mood swings ranging from happy, to irritable, to sad. It can be overwhelming at first, but as you make progress in your recovery, symptoms of post-acute withdrawal syndrome begin to dissipate. After time, you may go a month without experiencing any PAWS and suddenly they will reappear unexpectedly. One of the hardest parts of PAWS is often the unpredictability of the occurrence of symptoms, making PAWS a major barrier for recovering from a SUD.
It’s especially common after stopping substances like benzodiazepines, alcohol or opioids, which affect how the brain processes thoughts and emotions. Supportive RelationshipsEstablishing connections with friends and family can greatly aid recovery. Having conversations about experiences and feelings can provide comfort and reduce feelings of isolation. Gillian Tietz is the host of the Sober Powered podcast and recently left her career as a biochemist to create Sober Powered Media, LLC. When she quit drinking in 2019, she dedicated herself to learning about alcohol’s influence on the brain and how it can cause addiction. Today, she educates and empowers others to assess their relationship with alcohol.
Coping strategies to manage PAWS
The symptoms can be discomforting, and without healthy coping skills, can lead to a relapse, no matter how committed one is to remaining clean and sober. Learning about the symptoms of post-acute withdrawal syndrome, along with implementing healthy coping strategies, is the most efficient way to prevent relapse. Self-care is a crucial aspect of the recovery process for individuals experiencing post-acute withdrawal syndrome (PAWS). While professional treatment plays a significant role in managing PAWS, incorporating self-care practices into daily life can greatly enhance the healing process and improve overall wellbeing. There are many outpatient treatment programs available to guide you through the post-acute withdrawal phase during recovery to prevent relapse. Contact a treatment provider today to learn more about the various rehab options.
- Avoid situations, including triggers, that may initiate a craving to use, or situations that are anxiety-provoking, such as loud or crowded places.
- Many people in recovery experience these symptoms, and when symptoms persist or intensify, the risk of relapse can increase.
- Recognizing that PAWS is a normal part of the recovery process can help individuals and their loved ones maintain realistic expectations and avoid feelings of frustration or despair.
- Practice self-compassion and allow yourself space to feel without judgment.
- Remember that brain healing takes time, and each day of recovery contributes to long-term wellness.
- In some cases of PAWS (particularly if symptoms include intense depression or emotional pain), suicidal ideation may emerge.
Assessment Phase:
Aftercare and ongoing support are essential components of a comprehensive PAWS management plan. These services help individuals maintain their recovery progress, prevent relapse, and build a strong support network. Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) is a form of psychotherapy that helps individuals identify and change negative thought patterns and behaviors. In the context of PAWS, CBT can be particularly effective in managing symptoms such as anxiety, depression, and insomnia. The acute withdrawal phase occurs immediately after an individual stops using a substance.
Common Symptoms of Post-Acute Withdrawal Syndrome
Chronic abuse of alcohol, opioids, or benzodiazepines disrupts the brain’s ability to regulate its mood, energy, stress, and reward systems. Post-Acute Withdrawal Syndrome (PAWS) is a phenomenon that occurs when someone with a severe alcohol addiction goes through medical detox and their body has an extreme reaction. For a simple explanation, it’s withdrawal symptoms that last for a long, protracted time.
Certain factors can increase an individual’s susceptibility to experiencing PAWS, which can significantly complicate recovery. Employing these strategies can help individuals navigate the challenges of PAWS and support sustained recovery. Regular physical activity is another key component of managing PAWS symptoms. Exercise releases endorphins, which are natural mood-boosters and stress-reducers.
Anxiety and panic attacks may occur as the body’s stress response system becomes dysregulated. Individuals may feel a sense of impending doom, racing thoughts, and physical symptoms like rapid heartbeat and sweating. Individuals experiencing PAWS often struggle with significant mood disturbances.
- Reach out to a trusted healthcare provider or support group for guidance and assistance.
- Educating loved ones about the symptoms and timeline of PAWS can help reduce misunderstandings and conflicts that may arise during the recovery process.
- The length and intensity of an individual’s substance abuse can significantly impact the PAWS timeline.
- Social isolation deepens when you lack energy for gatherings or feel too anxious to leave home.
Tips for Improving Sleep During PAWS Recovery
By providing a stable and understanding support system, loved ones can play a crucial role in helping individuals navigate the challenges of PAWS and maintain their recovery. While the most intense withdrawal symptoms typically take place in the first few days or weeks, PAWS refers to a prolonged and recurring set of symptoms that can continue for months or even years. The body and brain may continue to struggle to regain balance after substance use stops, often causing emotional, mental, and physical challenges.
When family members and friends understand PAWS, they can provide more informed and effective support to their loved ones in recovery. Educating loved ones about the symptoms and timeline of PAWS can help reduce misunderstandings and conflicts that may arise during the recovery process. For example, if a family member knows that irritability and mood swings are common symptoms of PAWS, they may be more patient and understanding when their loved one exhibits these behaviors.
Research indicates that around 90% of individuals recovering from opioid use disorder will experience PAWS, making the management of these symptoms what is post-acute withdrawal syndrome paws crucial. Acute withdrawal presents immediately after substance cessation, characterized by severe physical and psychological symptoms. Typically, these symptoms evolve within hours to days and resolve within two weeks.
During the acute withdrawal phase, individuals may experience intense physical and psychological symptoms. These can include tremors, nausea, vomiting, headaches, and severe cravings for the substance. It’s crucial to seek medical supervision during this phase, as some withdrawal symptoms can be life-threatening.