Managing Post-Acute Withdrawal Symptoms
In the journey towards recovery from substance misuse disorders, it's essential to be aware of Post-Acute Withdrawal Syndrome (PAWS), also known as Protracted Withdrawal Syndrome (PWS). This condition involves persistent emotional and physical symptoms that can linger long after the initial withdrawal stage.
Individuals experiencing PAWS may encounter symptoms such as mood swings, anxiety, depression, sleep issues, and cravings. These symptoms can vary greatly among individuals, may persist from several months up to two years, and often fluctuate in intensity over time. The emotional symptoms also commonly include heightened stress responses and uncontrollable emotional reactions.
A 2020 study found that people experiencing withdrawal from antidepressants may experience lasting, severe PAWS symptoms, with the symptoms lasting from 6 months to more than 23 years, with a median of about 6.5 years. It's important to note that symptoms during acute withdrawal tend to be more physical and vary depending on the substance, but can include nausea, an increased heart rate, muscle aches, and headaches.
While it may not be possible to prevent PAWS for people in recovery from a substance misuse disorder, adopting self-care strategies and working with healthcare professionals can help manage symptoms and potentially reduce the risk of relapse.
Effective coping strategies include seeking professional medical and psychological support, especially when symptoms become severe or risky. Engaging in therapy such as cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) to handle mood swings, anxiety, and cravings is also beneficial. Establishing consistent sleep routines and practicing good sleep hygiene to combat insomnia is another essential strategy.
Stress-reduction techniques like mindfulness meditation, breathing exercises, or yoga can help manage stress and emotional responses. Maintaining a healthy lifestyle with balanced nutrition and regular physical activity can improve energy and mood. Building a strong social support network can assist with motivation and emotional stability.
Avoiding triggers and substances that could provoke cravings or relapse is also crucial. Resources for finding help in the United States include SMART Recovery and the National Drug Helpline.
Doctors may diagnose PAWS based on a person's medical history, findings from a physical examination, and results from tests such as a complete blood count, metabolic panel, liver function tests, arterial blood gas test, urinalysis, toxicology screening, and a urine test to rule out withdrawal from specific drugs or combinations.
Some additional risk factors for developing PAWS include an abrupt end to the misuse, the duration of the misuse, the intensity of the misuse, other physical or mental health conditions, and some genetic factors.
Remember, PAWS symptoms can recur even after detoxification feels complete, so awareness and long-term management are crucial to enduring recovery. If you or someone you know is struggling with substance misuse and recovery, seeking help from organisations such as the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) and the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline can provide much-needed support.
- In the recovery process from substance misuse disorders, it's crucial to be aware of Post-Acute Withdrawal Syndrome (PAWS), also known as Protracted Withdrawal Syndrome (PWS), which can cause persistent emotional and physical symptoms long after the initial withdrawal stage.
- Symptoms of PAWS can include mood swings, anxiety, depression, sleep issues, and cravings, and might also involve heightened stress responses and uncontrollable emotional reactions.
- A 2020 study revealed that individuals experiencing withdrawal from antidepressants may suffer from lasting, severe PAWS symptoms, with the symptoms lasting from 6 months to more than 23 years, with a median of about 6.5 years.
- Adopting self-care strategies, such as seeking professional medical and psychological support, engaging in cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), establishing consistent sleep routines, and practicing good sleep hygiene, can help manage symptoms of PAWS and potentially reduce the risk of relapse.
- Maintaining a healthy lifestyle with balanced nutrition and regular fitness and exercise, building a strong social support network, and avoiding triggers and substances that could provoke cravings or relapse are also important coping strategies in managing PAWS symptoms.
- Resources in the United States for finding help include SMART Recovery and the National Drug Helpline, while organizations like the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) and the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline offer much-needed support for those struggling with substance misuse and recovery.
