Understanding Withdrawal Symptom Levels

When an abuser of drugs or alcohol decides to stop their addiction, they will undergo two levels of withdrawal. The first is a physical withdrawal, and later, a psychological withdrawal. 

A medically supervised treatment facility is an optimum place to go for detoxification. The reasoning behind this is that they will help monitor the patient as they go through the detoxification process which can be reassuring during this challenging time. 

Below is some helpful information to understand the withdrawal process patients undergo.

Part 1: Detox

Withdrawal symptoms vary with the type of substance an abuser was using. Time for withdrawal may also vary.

A medically supervised rehabilitation facility is highly recommended during this first important step since detox can be physically taxing.

Usual withdrawal symptoms for those wanting to stop the intake of drugs and alcohol may include:

1        Rapid heartbeat 
2        Sweating 
3        Nausea, vomiting and diarrhea 
4        Breathing challenges and chest tightness 
5        Tremors

The above withdrawal symptoms may appear at different times. A trained medical facility will help the patient alleviate the detox side-effects.

Following the physical detox phase, it’s important for the patient to go into treatment rehabilitation so they are guided in various ways to stop the addiction for good.

This step is vital, because it will help the patient during the “post acute withdrawal symptoms” (PAWS) phase of their recovery.

Part 2: Post Acute Withdrawal Symptoms (PAWS)

After a physical detox, patients must then face what’s called post acute withdrawal symptoms otherwise known as PAWS. This phase is purely psychological and a critical part in staying sober.

In fact, many health care professionals consider it of equal importance to the physical detox phase.

PAWS may last a few days; and, can return at various times for up to two years.

In essence, the brain is attempting to modify itself with its new healthy lifestyle changes.

The most common symptoms of PAWS include:

1        Anxiety and impatience

2        Mood fluctuations

3        Challenges in a restful night’s sleep

4        Fatigue

5        Difficult time concentrating 

A common “thought reaction” to the above side effects is to retreat back to drugs and alcohol. PAWS can be very challenging and this is why ongoing support therapy is critical to the success of remaining sober. Understanding that these symptoms will pass in a few days will give a former abuser hope.

Part 3: Understanding PAWS

It is normal for those in recovery to feel absolutely discouraged when PAWS rears its head. That is why it is so important for a person to take part in a treatment program and learn the steps in how to understand and mange this phase of the recovery.

A support group will teach the following PAWS management tools:

1        Be patient 

2        Don’t be fearful 

3        Understand that PAWS will go away in a few days 

4        Focus on a health and wellness routine of balanced meals and exercise 

5        Consider massage therapy, acupuncture, yoga and meditation for therapy 

6        Seek the help of a support group, counselor or spiritual advisor  

7        If sleep is interrupted, get rest when possible

Someone in recovery needs to surround themselves with positive people and reduce the negatives and stresses in their lives.

A rehabilitation support group will offer resources to help learn more about PAWS which may include educational sessions, sobriety groups, and counseling. Having the tools to manage PAWS provides empowerment and hope.

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