The 6 Major Symptoms of Post Acute Withdrawal Syndrome

Post Acute Withdrawal Syndrome poses the most significant threat of relapse for people who are recovering from drug addiction or alcoholism. Also referred to as PAWS, recognition of and treatment for the symptoms associated with post acute withdrawal syndrome is critical in order to achieve sobriety one day at a time, for a lifetime. And while the treatment of PAWS at a residential inpatient center or intensive outpatient program is essential for a successful recovery, PAWS can persist for up to two years after a person has stopped using. This means that treatment for PAWS must continue long after a person has completed a drug rehab program in order for recovery to be successful. There are 6 symptoms of PAWS as defined by experts in the fields of drug addiction and alcoholism. These symptoms generally set in immediately after a person completes acute withdrawal or detox and continues on average for 3 to 6 months. However, it should be noted that many people only experience these symptoms for a few weeks, while others report them for years after getting clean. However, PAWS can be effectively managed with therapy, good nutrition and exercise. 1.)Decreased ability to form complex thoughts, solve basic problems or remain focused on a task for a sustained period. Abstract reasoning is impaired. These problems can have serious self-confidence ramifications that can lead to or further exacerbate depression and suicidal thoughts. 2.)Memory loss. Both short term and long term memory can be affected. Generally this memory loss is sporadic in nature but can have enough of an effect to cause a multitude of problems. 3.)Erratic Emotional Behavior. Post Acute Withdrawal Syndrome can cause a person to overreact to something simple, or have little reaction to something very serious. People might alternate between periods of feeling completely dull and emotionally empty to periods of unwarranted anger, frustration, and outbursts. 4.)Coordination Problems. The term “Dry Drunk” actually describes the conditions caused by PAWS symptoms. A person may have balance issues and stumble, sway, or even fall, and their reflexes are significantly inhibited. The performance of even simple tasks may become difficult as a result of hand-to-eye coordination issues and problems with fine motor skills. 5.)Sleep Disorders. PAWS symptoms may cause a person to sleep too much or not enough; these issues are often complicated by severe difficulties in developing regular sleeping cycles. 6.)Inhibited Stress Coping. People who are suffering from PAWS might find themselves unable to cope with everyday stresses, leading to a deterioration of a career or relationships. A person might feel aggravated and stress without any cause at all. The symptoms of PAWS are especially troublesome considering that each symptom exacerbates the other, leading to an overall state of depression and/or exhaustion. However, it’s actually easy to manage post acute withdrawal as long as a person is vigilant in recognizing their symptoms. If you or someone important to you is suffering from post acute withdrawal syndrome, the best course of action is always individual and/or group therapy, proper nutrition, and plenty of exercise and water. If the symptoms are severe enough, medication may be required to bring them under control.

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