Symptoms of post-acute withdrawal syndrome (PAWS) can be a major challenge for individuals recovering from addiction. PAWS refers to the range of physical and psychological symptoms that can persist after the acute withdrawal stage has ended.
Understanding these symptoms is the first step toward effectively managing them.
What Is Acute Withdrawal?
The acute withdrawal stage happens after someone stops taking their substance of choice. Withdrawal is well-known as a painful process. It can involve many unpleasant symptoms, which can range from mild to severe. Severe symptoms may include tremors, seizures, and vomiting. This is because the body is no longer used to functioning without the substance.
Depending on the addiction, withdrawal may even be dangerous or life-threatening. That is why it is important to not quit “cold turkey.” Instead, people should detox with help from a qualified treatment center. Detoxing safely is the first step toward lifelong recovery from substance abuse. Fortunately, withdrawal symptoms typically subside within a few days to a week.
What Is Post-Acute Withdrawal Syndrome (PAWS)?
PAWS refers to a set of withdrawal symptoms that occur after the acute withdrawal stage has ended. Unlike acute withdrawal, which usually does not last much longer than a week or two at most, PAWS symptoms can last for weeks, months, or even years after an individual has ceased using drugs or alcohol. Needless to say, this can be extremely distressing.
PAWS Symptoms
Symptoms of PAWS can include:
- Cravings
- Anxiety
- Stomach pain
- Muscle aches
- Headaches
- Insomnia or difficulty sleeping
- Fatigue and low energy levels
- Irritability
- Mood swings
- Depression
PAWS can also disrupt an individual’s sense of self, their relationships, and their daily routine.
Why Does PAWS Occur?
PAWS occurs because substance use disorder (SUD) often causes long-term changes to the brain and body. These changes can persist even after an individual has stopped using drugs or alcohol, leading to persistent symptoms.
One key factor that contributes to PAWS is brain chemistry. Substance use can alter the levels of neurotransmitters, such as dopamine and serotonin. These neurotransmitters are responsible for regulating mood, motivation, and other key functions. After an individual stops using drugs or alcohol, these neurotransmitter levels may take time to normalize, leading to persistent symptoms.
Substance use can also cause physical changes to the brain, damaging the overall structure and function. This is another reason why addiction is a brain disease. Unfortunately, these physical changes can lead to persistent symptoms even after an individual has stopped using substances.
How to Manage PAWS
While PAWS can be difficult to manage, there are things that can be used to counteract or mitigate its symptoms. Focusing on some of the following areas can help people manage their PAWS symptoms and continue on the path to recovery success.
#1. Exercise
Physical activity is amazing for physical, emotional, and mental well-being. It is especially effective in managing symptoms of anxiety, depression, and low energy levels.
Regular physical activity can help to regulate mood and boost energy levels. This makes it an important tool in the management of PAWS symptoms.
#2. Sleep Hygiene
Poor sleep hygiene can exacerbate symptoms of anxiety and depression. It can also contribute to low energy levels.
By maintaining good sleep hygiene, such as sticking to a consistent sleep schedule and avoiding caffeine and screens before bed, individuals can mitigate fatigue-related symptoms of PAWS.
#3. Nutrition
A balanced diet can support the whole body during the recovery process. Consuming a diet rich in nutrients, such as vitamins and minerals, can reduce symptoms of fatigue. It can also reduce mood swings and headaches.
#4. Therapy
Individual therapy can be extremely effective in managing symptoms of anxiety, depression, and cravings. Therapy can help individuals to understand the underlying causes of their PAWS and to develop coping strategies to counteract their effects.
Addressing your symptoms with your therapist can open the opportunity for you to collaboratively develop skills to manage your symptoms.
#5. Medications
In some cases, medications may be prescribed to manage PAWS. For example, antidepressants may be used to manage symptoms of depression, while sleep aids may be used to address insomnia
It is important to work closely with a healthcare provider to determine if medications are appropriate for you. They can also help you understand their potential side effects and risks.
#6. Holistic Practices
Alternative therapies, such as acupuncture, massage, and yoga, can also be effective in managing symptoms of PAWS. These therapies can help to reduce stress, regulate mood, and improve sleep. This makes them a valuable tool in the management of PAWS.
One example of an effective holistic therapy is mindfulness. Mindfulness practices, such as meditation and deep breathing, can reduce symptoms of anxiety, depression, and cravings. By focusing on the present moment, individuals can develop a greater sense of calm and control, which can be especially helpful during moments of intense cravings.
#7. Avoidance of Triggers
Triggers can be anything that may lead to a desire to use drugs or alcohol. It is important to be aware of personal triggers and to take steps to avoid or manage them. For example, if an individual experiences intense cravings when they encounter certain people or environments, they may need to avoid these triggers, especially in early recovery.
#8. Support
Finally, it is important to seek help when managing PAWS. Reach out to your therapist, case manager, and other members of your support team at Dream Recovery to assist in overcoming PAWS symptoms.
Recovery With PAWS
PAWS can be a major challenge for individuals recovering from SUD. Fortunately, by understanding what PAWS is, how it occurs, and how to counteract its effects, individuals can successfully navigate the recovery process and achieve lasting recovery. Whether through exercise, therapy, support groups, or alternative therapies, there are many strategies that individuals can use to manage their PAWS and stay on track with their recovery.
If you or someone you know is struggling with post-acute withdrawal syndrome (PAWS) in recovery, it’s important to know that there are resources to manage your symptoms. By implementing these techniques, you can successfully manage your symptoms of PAWS and achieve lasting success in your recovery. Work to improve your self-care by exercising, getting good sleep, eating nutritious meals, attending individual therapy, taking prescribed medications if necessary, utilizing holistic practices, avoiding triggers, and asking for help. These actions can help you to take control of your physical and emotional health and move forward in your recovery. To learn more about managing PAWS and addiction recovery in general, reach out to Dream Recovery at (657) 216-7218.
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