These materials often include self-care strategies that can improve coping mechanisms. Managing Post-Acute Withdrawal Syndrome (PAWS) can be challenging, and a strong support network plays a vital role in recovery. Various resources are available to individuals experiencing these prolonged symptoms. These alterations disrupt emotional regulation and cognitive function, increasing susceptibility to PAWS symptoms. During this phase of alcohol or drug recovery you may experience anxiety, depression, panic attacks, and mood swings, which can affect your daily functioning and overall quality of life. Several studies indicate that sudden discontinued use of marijuana can result in post-acute withdrawal syndrome upon completion of acute detox.

Improved recovery outcomes

Helpful coping strategies include keeping a steady routine, getting enough sleep, gentle exercise, mindfulness or grounding exercises, therapy, and staying connected to supportive peers. PAWS symptoms come and go, lasting up to two years as the brain slowly recovers from prolonged substance use. While this stage can feel frustrating and unpredictable, it can improve with time, structure, and medical support. It’s not a lack of effort or motivation – it’s simply your brain working hard to repair itself. Without the right support and coping strategies what is Oxford House in place, this stage of recovery can increase the risk of relapse.

Teen & Young Adult Treatment Tracks

The good news about Post-Acute Withdrawal Syndrome is that we understand it better than ever before. Much research has been done into managing the symptoms of PAWS over just the past two decades. At The Living Room, we rely on an integrated holistic approach to managing PAWS. There is a subset of detox symptoms that doesn’t get talked about enough.

How can family members support someone going through PAWS?

During active addiction, substances alter neurotransmitter production and receptor sensitivity. Recovery requires time for these systems to heal and function normally again. With the right post-acute withdrawal syndrome plan—medical support, therapy, skills training, and lifestyle changes—most people see steady improvement.

• Post-acute withdrawal syndrome is different for everyone, and certain treatments may be more beneficial than others.
• When symptoms feel unmanageable, talk with a clinician and consider short-term medications that target sleep or anxiety.
• When you stop using a certain substance, you might experience withdrawal symptoms for a few days or weeks.
• Your history with substances, stress, health, and trauma all play a role.

Regular check-ins with healthcare providers can help track progress and adjust treatment plans as needed. This continuous monitoring ensures that symptoms are managed effectively. Understanding the concept of protracted withdrawal can be crucial for individuals experiencing the lingering effects of substance use cessation. It helps in recognizing what is happening in the body and mind during recovery. Understanding the factors that influence Post-Acute Withdrawal Syndrome (PAWS) can help individuals navigate their recovery journey more effectively. Two primary contributors are an individual’s substance use history https://maxmove.net/what-happens-during-alcohol-withdrawal-causes/ and their unique biology.