Post-acute withdrawal syndrome (PAWS) is a condition characterized by a second set of withdrawal symptoms many individuals experience following the initial withdrawal process. Following drug detoxification treatment, prioritizing ongoing recovery support and treatment is essential for preventing relapse and PAWS.
What Is Post-Acute Withdrawal Syndrome (PAWS)?
Post-acute withdrawal syndrome (PAWS) occurs when an individual experiences psychological withdrawal symptoms following the medical detox process. The drug and alcohol withdrawal process in detoxification is characterized by uncomfortable mental and physical symptoms during withdrawal from a substance.
Withdrawal symptoms can vary depending on the substance of abuse, length of abuse, and the user’s health status. The most common symptoms of alcohol and drug withdrawal are nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, anxiety, tremors, and insomnia. The initial drug and alcohol detoxification helps rid the body of the substance, while post-acute withdrawal syndrome (PAWS) involves symptoms that can last for months or even years.
PAWS is often characterized by various emotional and psychological symptoms rather than the physical symptoms associated with acute withdrawal. The symptoms of PAWS can include:
- Anxiety
- Depression
- Irritability
- Trouble sleeping (insomnia)
- Fatigue
- Mood swings
- Lack of pleasure (anhedonia)
- Memory impairments
- Drug or alcohol cravings
- Difficulty concentrating or paying attention
The symptoms of post-acute withdrawal syndrome may come and go unpredictably, heightening the significance of effective treatment and coping strategies.
Treatments and Coping Strategies for Post-Acute Withdrawal Syndrome (PAWS)
Experiencing post-acute withdrawal syndrome (PAWS) while in recovery from addiction can be challenging, requiring immediate intervention. While addressed in drug and alcohol rehab, the physical and psychological aspects of addiction may persist following treatment. A treatment plan for PAWS must include a combination of therapies and lifestyle modifications to ensure all aspects of addiction recovery are addressed.
Setting yourself up for recovery success after finishing drug and alcohol rehab requires an intensive treatment plan that prioritizes the psychosocial aspects of recovery. From behavioral therapies and medication management to lifestyle modifications and psychosocial support, you can help treat and prevent PAWS in long-term recovery.
Behavioral Therapies for Post-Detox Success
Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) is one of the most effective behavioral therapies in drug and alcohol rehab. CBT helps manage and mitigate the symptoms of PAWS by identifying and altering negative thought patterns. These negative thought processes contribute to substance abuse, triggering addiction cravings or leading to relapse. By pinpointing these thought and behavioral patterns in addiction recovery, individuals can develop effective coping mechanisms to beat post-acute withdrawal syndrome (PAWS).
Another popular behavioral therapy approach in drug detox is dialectical behavior therapy (DBT). DBT is an effective treatment for patients who struggle with managing and regulating intense emotions. Both CBT and DBT talk therapy for PAWS ultimately helps with emotional regulation during the recovery process, facilitating ongoing healing and emotion management.
Medications to Support Long-Term Recovery
Medication management, or medication-assisted treatment (MAT), is often integrated into drug and alcohol detox programs. In some cases, healthcare professionals may prescribe medications in the early stages of recovery to manage or prevent PAWS symptoms. These prescription medications can include antidepressants, SSRIs, anti-anxiety medications, or mood stabilizers, depending on the individual’s health status and substance abuse history.
Building a Support System and Sober Community
A robust support system following drug rehab is crucial for relapse prevention and a successful recovery. Friends, family members, support groups, sober communities, and therapists can help facilitate the recovery process for post-detox success. Recovery support networks offer a sense of community, understanding, and encouragement when navigating post-acute withdrawal syndrome (PAWS). Building connections with others in recovery can provide practical advice and guidance when experiencing similar challenges or celebrating wins.
Therapy sessions, whether individual or group, provide a safe space for recovering individuals to open up and discuss their struggles and successes. A support system in recovery is all about surrounding yourself with people who want to see you succeed and you can lean on when you need encouragement.
Lifestyle Modifications for Addiction Recovery
Following alcohol and drug detox, you’re going to be making some pretty influential changes and lifestyle modifications. Addiction recovery means leaving your old life of addiction behind and claiming your new life of freedom. Adopting healthy lifestyle changes is essential for ensuring post-detox success and managing PAWS in recovery. Try regular exercise, such as walking, yoga, running, weight-lifting, or pilates. Eating a well-balanced diet rich in essential nutrients and vitamins contributes to both body and mind health.
Prioritizing a good sleep schedule and comfortable sleep arrangements can help prevent disturbances and insomnia during recovery. Stress management and relaxation techniques, such as meditation, mindfulness, yoga, and deep breathing, can also mitigate PAWS symptoms.
Holistic Therapies for PAWS
Holistic therapies in drug and alcohol detox can complement traditional addiction treatment services for PAWS. At Coastal Detox, our holistic detox treatments include acupuncture, aromatherapy, massage therapy, and manual lymphatic drainage in drug rehab.
Holistic practices in addiction treatment help alleviate emotional and physical stress, further aiding in PAWS treatment and promoting well-being. The meaning of holistic is to heal the individual—mind, body, and spirit. We incorporate holistic techniques in drug rehab not as a substitution for medical treatments but rather as an enhancement to PAWS treatment and management.
Long-Term Commitment to Sobriety
Beating post-acute withdrawal syndrome (PAWS) requires a long-term, steadfast commitment to sobriety. Ongoing recovery management entails attending support meetings, checking in with healthcare providers, ongoing psychotherapy, and prioritizing health and wellness.
Understanding the signs and symptoms of PAWS is critical for individuals in the early stages of addiction recovery. Immediate intervention and treatment can help reduce the psychological and emotional distress associated with post-acute withdrawal syndrome (PAWS). Individuals can achieve lasting sobriety by staying informed and being proactive in symptom management.
Drug and Alcohol Detox in Stuart, FL
Without the proper resources and treatment strategies, post-acute withdrawal syndrome (PAWS) can be a significant risk factor for relapse. With the combination of cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), holistic treatments, and healthy lifestyle changes, you can beat PAWS and accomplish lasting success on the road to recovery.
You CAN achieve sobriety.
Contact us to get into drug detox today. Visit our website for more information on our South Florida drug detox facility and addiction treatment programs in Stuart.
References:
- World Health Organization, 2009. Clinical Guidelines for Withdrawal Management and Treatment of Drug Dependence in Closed Settings.
- Journal of Studies on Alcohol and Drugs, 2022. Neurobiology and Symptomatology of Post-Acute Alcohol Withdrawal: A Mixed-Studies Systematic Review.
- Medical News Today, 2022. How to cope with post-acute withdrawal syndrome.
- WebMD, 2024. Post-Acute Withdrawal Syndrome and Opioids.
- Healthline, 2022. How to Recognize and Manage the Symptoms of Post-Acute Withdrawal Syndrome.