Addiction is a complex beast, often accompanied by different mental health struggles that may linger even after the drugs are out of your system. One such hurdle is Post-Acute Withdrawal Syndrome (PAWS).
At Grace Recovery Center, we understand what PAWS involves and are here to support you through this stage on your road to recovery from addiction. Keep reading to learn more.
Understanding Post-Acute Withdrawal Syndrome
Post-acute withdrawal syndrome (PAWS) happens after the initial detox period. It’s a group of symptoms that may appear weeks or sometimes even months following discontinuation of substance use.
Causes of PAWS
PAWS symptoms arise due to substance misuse disorder altering the body, brain, and central nervous system. In individuals addicted to benzodiazepines, lasting withdrawal symptoms may result from changes to the neuroreceptors in the central nervous system.
Symptoms of PAWS
Unlike acute withdrawal symptoms, which are majorly physical, PAWS affects primarily your mental health. These symptoms include:
- Mood swings
- Anxiety
- Insomnia
- Difficulty concentrating
- Irritability
- Low energy
- Varying levels of depression
These signs can be erratic, and their intensity may differ from one person to another. Dealing with these distressing PAWS symptoms without adequate support could lead to relapse.
Strategies for Coping with PAWS
Our belief at Grace Recovery Center is that understanding PAWS is the first step toward handling it effectively. Here are some strategies that can help:
- Education: Understand this is part of being in recovery; it helps alleviate guilt and shame associated with these same symptoms.
- Self-care: Regular exercise, eating a well-balanced diet, and sleeping enough helps manage PAWS symptoms.
- Therapy and counseling: You can explore how to cope with PAWS through cognitive-behavioral therapy, among other counseling approaches.
- Medication: There might be prescription medication if any specific symptom needs management.
- Support groups like Narcotics Anonymous (NA) or Alcoholics Anonymous (AA): Networking with other individuals undergoing similar situations will not only provide comfort but also reduce isolation while offering practical tips.
- Monitor triggers: Keep track of what triggers your symptoms and avoid them as much as possible.
- Practice mindfulness: Being in the present moment can reduce anxiety and stress related to PAWS.
- Be patient: PAWS symptoms may not go away immediately but eventually subside. Remain dedicated to your recovery journey, remembering that it is a process.
The Role of Grace Recovery Center in Your Recovery Journey
At Grace Recovery Center, we incorporate these strategies into an individualized care plan for holistic addiction recovery. Our top-rated drug and alcohol rehab in Los Angeles offers detox and residential treatment programs that provide the guidance and support needed to address PAWS and other addiction recovery challenges.
Professional Addiction Therapy Services to Treat PAWS
- Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) recognizes negative thought patterns contributing to PAWS symptoms.
- Dialectical behavior therapy (DBT) helps manage emotions better and improve interpersonal skills.
- Eye movement desensitization and reprocessing (EMDR) works on traumatic experiences triggering PAWS symptoms.
- Group therapy fosters a supportive environment for clients to share their experiences and learn from others.
- Individual therapy offers personalized support addressing particular needs associated with PAWS.
Treatment for Post-Acute Withdrawal Syndrome at Grace Recovery Center
At Grace Recovery Center, we’re here to support you every step of the way on this journey. If you or a loved one is facing PAWS, don’t hesitate to reach out. Our devoted team is ready to guide you through this challenging recovery phase. Remember, no matter how small, progress leads you closer to taking back control of your life. Recovery from addiction isn’t a straight path – embrace the journey, lean on your support system, and know that PAWS can be overcome with patience, strength, and expert help. Reach out to Grace Recovery Center for addiction treatment in Los Angeles today. Let’s walk this path together!