What is Post-Acute Withdrawal Syndrome? [Infographic]

Post-acute withdrawal syndrome (PAWS) often occurs in individuals who have abused alcohol or other substances for a prolonged period of time and have discontinued. On the surface, this syndrome can appear similar to depression and may have a profound effect on an individual’s mood.

More than the loss of happiness, individuals suffering from this withdrawal symptom may also suffer from altered circadian rhythm and mood swings. It’s important to know the ways to identify post-acute withdrawal syndrome (PAWS), as well as potential solutions for treatment when it occurs.

Detox from drugs and alcohol safely at the medical detox center in Jacksonville, Florida.

How To Spot Post-Acute Withdrawal Syndrome (PAWS)

This withdrawal symptom may occur for individuals who have abused alcohol, barbiturates, or benzodiazepines, so be on the lookout if the use of these substances has discontinued for someone you know. Symptoms tend to peak around the four to eight-week mark, where general cognitive impairment is likely to manifest.

Extreme drug craving, anxiety and panic attacks, and suicidal ideation may occur as well as a result of this syndrome. If any or all of these occur, it’s best to seek medical treatment immediately to ensure that safety is maintained. The dual diagnosis treatment program in Jacksonville can address mental health issues from post-acute withdrawal syndrome.

What To Do About Post-Acute Withdrawal Syndrome (PAWS)

Like other issues that revolve around illicit substance abuse and addiction, post-acute withdrawal syndrome can be fought with treatment. Undergoing detox at a professional facility is often the best course of action, preferably before symptoms of this syndrome begin to present themselves. Because these symptoms are a result of an individual’s brain adjusting back to being without the illicit substances they were abusing, adjustment is often gradual and should be done nearby to medical professionals. While the ultimate solution is often to face this syndrome head-on, that isn’t a battle that needs to be fought alone. 

Consider the following programs for safe withdrawal to fit your needs:

• Residential drug rehab in Jacksonville
• Intensive outpatient program (IOP)
• Outpatient rehab program in FL
• Partial hospitalization program (PHP) in FL

What Else Should I Know About Withdrawal?

While some medications and behavioral therapies can help to alleviate many of the symptoms of this syndrome, the best defense is often a positive attitude coupled with a healthy lifestyle. Post-acute withdrawal syndrome is often a necessary evil that must be conquered, and the effects are temporary and short-lived for most people.

There are many quality rehabilitation facilities and programs with methods designed to help deal with this syndrome. In fact, most medical professionals assisting with rehabilitation will be familiar with the signs that signal the syndrome may have arrived.

For the majority of individuals suffering from addiction, a professional drug rehabilitation facility will be their final answer to overcoming their abusive habits. Call 866.605.0532 and contact Beaches Recovery today for more information on combating addiction as well as post-acute withdrawal syndrome. Taking action now can save you time and energy later if symptoms associated with this syndrome appear.