If you attempt to detox from drugs or alcohol at home, you will likely experience a host of uncomfortable withdrawal symptoms. For some people, withdrawal is so intense that they cannot endure them for the duration of the detox. With the help of a medical detox program, you can get through withdrawal with minimal to no symptoms, making it much easier to stay on course. However, once you have made it through detox, you are not necessarily free and clear. Some people experience what is known as post-acute withdrawal syndrome (PAWS), which can drag out the recovery process.
At Serenity House Detox & Recovery Houston, we understand that recovery extends well beyond detox. Those experiencing post-acute withdrawal syndrome can continue to struggle for up to a year. Therefore, we carefully design our drug detox programs to include ongoing treatment to help all of our clients enjoy a successful, lasting recovery. To learn more about how we can help you through post-acute withdrawal syndrome, give us a call today at 866.516.8356.
Symptoms of Withdrawal
When you abruptly stop taking drugs or alcohol after you have developed a dependence, you will experience acute withdrawal symptoms. These can include:
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Muscle aches and pains
- Extreme fatigue
- Moodiness
- Anxiety
- Depression
- Insomnia
- Upset stomach
Withdrawal symptoms typically last anywhere between a few days to a few weeks. Making it through detox can be quite challenging, but your work is still not complete. Some people will continue to experience various withdrawal symptoms for an extended period, possibly up to one year. These withdrawal symptoms that continue past the detox period make up what is known as post-acute withdrawal syndrome.
Symptoms of Post-Acute Withdrawal Symptoms
The symptoms of post-acute withdrawal syndrome generally occur in spurts and may include:
- Depression
- Anxiety
- Low energy
- Lack of mental clarity
- Insomnia
- Poor sleep quality
- Irritability
Drug and alcohol addiction causes changes in the brain. Once you discontinue using substances, it takes time for your brain to recover fully, so you may experience PAWS.
What Are the Risk Factors for Post-Acute Withdrawal Syndrome?
Not everyone who detoxes from drugs or alcohol experiences post-acute withdrawal syndrome. Several factors put you at a higher risk for PAWS:
- Length of use: The longer you have been using drugs or alcohol, the more likely you will experience PAWS.
- The quantity used: Those who drink or use excessive amounts of drugs or alcohol are at a higher risk for PAWS.
- Co-occurring mental health conditions: If you suffer from conditions like depression, anxiety, or PTSD alongside your drug or alcohol addiction, you are more likely to develop PAWS.
If you’re at a heightened risk for post-acute withdrawal syndrome, it’s often best to reach out to a professional detox center, like Serenity House Detox & Recovery Houston.
Can a Drug Detox Program Help You Manage PAWS?
You probably understand how a drug detox program can help you get through the initial detox process. Through a combination of medications and therapy, you can get through withdrawal with minimal discomfort. Once you have made it through detox, you may worry about how you will sustain sobriety. This is what makes ongoing treatment so important.
Even though the symptoms of PAWS will not be as severe as those during acute withdrawal, you will need support to reduce the risk of relapse. Your treatment team will be available to help you manage the psychological distress through various therapies and possibly even a continuing course of medication.
Serenity House Detox & Recovery Houston Can Support Your Needs
For the best chance of a lasting recovery, you need ongoing treatment beyond the initial detox phase. Continuing with treatment at a drug detox program for an extended period can help you make it through the challenges of PAWS. At Serenity House Detox & Recovery Houston, we will support you and provide you with the tools you need to get clean and stay clean for the long term. To get started on your journey to sober living, call us today at 866.516.8356.
