Coping with PAWS: Strategies for Managing Post-Acute Symptoms
If you’ve recently completed addiction treatment, congratulations! However, you might be experiencing post-acute withdrawal syndrome (PAWS), which can make your recovery journey more challenging. PAWS is a set of physical and emotional symptoms that can last for weeks or months after quitting drugs or alcohol. In this article, we’ll discuss some strategies to help you cope with PAWS and avoid relapse.
What Are Post-Acute Withdrawal Symptoms?
PAWS can occur after the acute withdrawal period, which typically lasts for a week or two. PAWS can be difficult to manage, and it’s important to understand that it’s a normal part of the recovery process. PAWS symptoms can include:
- Anxiety
- Irritability
- Insomnia
- Fatigue
- Depression
- Difficulty concentrating
- Memory problems
- Mood swings
Understanding PAWS
PAWS can occur due to changes in the brain’s chemistry caused by drug or alcohol abuse. The brain tries to adapt to the presence of these substances and produces more neurotransmitters to counteract their effects. When the substance is removed, the brain has to readjust to the new balance of neurotransmitters. This process can take time and cause physical and emotional symptoms.
Coping Strategies
- Get enough sleep. Sleep is essential for physical and emotional health. Try to establish a regular sleep routine and create a comfortable sleep environment.
- Exercise regularly. Exercise can improve mood and reduce stress. Find an activity you enjoy and make it a part of your daily routine.
- Eat a healthy diet. A balanced diet can provide your body with the nutrients it needs to function properly. Avoid sugary and processed foods, which can worsen mood swings.
- Practice mindfulness. Mindfulness can help you stay present and reduce anxiety. Try meditation, deep breathing, or yoga.
- Attend support groups. Support groups can provide a sense of community and help you feel less alone. Attend meetings regularly and share your experiences with others.
- Stay busy. Boredom can trigger cravings and make PAWS symptoms worse. Find hobbies or activities that you enjoy and keep yourself busy.
- Avoid triggers. Triggers can be people, places, or things that remind you of substance use. Identify your triggers and avoid them as much as possible.
- Seek professional help. If your symptoms are severe or interfere with your daily life, seek professional help. A therapist or psychiatrist can help you manage your symptoms and develop coping strategies.
- Practice self-care. Self-care can help you feel better and reduce stress. Take care of your physical and emotional needs, and be kind to yourself.
- Be patient. PAWS can be frustrating, but it's important to remember that it's a normal part of the recovery process. Be patient with yourself and focus on your progress.
- PAWS can be a challenging experience, but it's important to remember that it's a normal part of the recovery process. Coping with PAWS requires patience, self-care, and a variety of coping strategies. If you're struggling with PAWS, reach out to Surfside Recovery for help.
FAQs
PAWS can last for weeks or months after quitting drugs or alcohol.
In some cases, medication can be helpful for managing PAWS symptoms. Talk to a psychiatrist or addiction specialist for more information.
No, exercise can actually improve mood and reduce stress, which can help with PAWS symptoms.
No, PAWS symptoms can vary from person to person and depend on the substance used and the individual’s history of use.
Yes, PAWS can make recovery more challenging and increase the risk of relapse. It’s important to have a support network and coping strategies in place to manage PAWS symptoms.