Prevent Relapse by Understanding Post-Acute Withdrawal Syndrome

Relapse is a scary word.  Relapse is a scary word.  Relapse can best be avoided during Post-Acute Withdrawal Syndrome by understanding the reasons for it.  Many situations can lead to relapse, such as people believing that they have learned how to use socially now that they “understand” addiction, or hanging out with others who do not support their sobriety, or not reaching out for support when it is needed.

Another thing that can lead to relapse is Post-Acute Withdrawal Syndrome or PAWS.

PAWS isn’t the same for everyone.  Some people may experience no symptoms of PAWS, while others may have varying symptoms that decrease with time.

When someone decides to become substance-free, they usually expect some discomfort as most have experienced withdrawal symptoms in the past. They also know that withdrawal symptoms will decrease as the substance clears from the body.  As that stage of withdrawal ends, they begin to feel better and think more clearly.

PAWS is not as easily predicted as acute withdrawal.  Physical cravings are less common than in the early stages of recovery, but psychological symptoms that come and go can be more common with PAWS.

Individual experiences vary but some of the most reported conditions experienced include:

• Irritability
• Insomnia
• Anxiety and/or depression
• Fatigue
• Lack of motivation
• Difficulty thinking clearly
• Mood swings
• Obsessive thoughts
• Lack of concentration

These symptoms can be frightening, however, if the person in recovery understands that PAWS symptoms are common and will pass, they are less worrisome.  Brain changes occur during addiction and time is required for brain neurochemistry to return to a normal healthy state.

Understanding both addiction and all that occurs during recovery is important for those trying to maintain their sobriety.  In addition to knowing the symptoms of PAWS, understanding how to cope is important also.

Some helpful tips include:

• Identifying a solid support system of family, friends, health care providers, and support groups,
• Reaching out to a support system as needed,
• Planning a daily schedule that includes time for self-care, rest, and relaxation,
• Eating a healthy diet,
• Getting enough sleep,
• Participating in a regular exercise routine,
• Being kind to yourself, and
• Being patient – knowing that PAWS doesn’t last forever and that you are on the road to long term health

Gulf Breeze Recovery understands the importance of helping their guests not only overcome active addiction, but also equipping them with the tools and resources for maintaining sobriety, long-term.  Participants at Gulf Breeze Recovery receive follow-up care after completing the program with one-on-one educators who help with early recovery, and virtual groups to offer ongoing support.  Group classes and individual therapy work to help participants understand addiction and recovery and to be better prepared to maintain sobriety.

Gulf Breeze Recovery strives to offer the best and most comprehensive alcohol and substance abuse treatment options in the country, with plans of treatment tailored to fit individual needs.  Our professional and medical staff are available to meet all your needs for high-quality substance abuse treatment.

If you or someone you care about, has an ongoing history of alcohol or substance use and/or relapse, contact Gulf Breeze Recovery or call: 833.551.2356 to speak to an addiction expert to learn more about their residential program, out-patient program, and intensive out-patient program, and which of these can best fit your individual needs.  These programs have helped many people overcome their addiction and embrace their new happy, healthy, substance-free lifestyle.

We help people not just to survive, but to THRIVE!