Addiction is a complex condition to treat that can cause long-lasting withdrawals, cravings, and other symptoms that can lead to a relapse. If you’re experiencing post-acute withdrawal syndrome (PAWS), it’s vital to know there are several methods for managing the long-lasting withdrawal symptoms connected to substance use disorders (SUDs). A PAWS program uses a mix of treatments—including medication-assisted treatment (MAT), cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), lifestyle skills, and alternative therapies like yoga, massage, and acupuncture.
The Ranch PA supports those struggling with addictions to alcohol, prescription medications, heroin, or other problematic substances. Our drug and alcohol detox focuses on the physical and psychological symptoms that are common with PAWS. Our team of therapists will develop a comprehensive program that includes behavioral and holistic therapy along with medical support to aid in your recovery journey.
What Is Post-Acute Withdrawal Syndrome?
Post-acute withdrawal syndrome is a condition connected to substance abuse that focuses on the lingering withdrawal symptoms that persist after treating substance use disorders. Post-acute withdrawal symptoms include physical and psychological indicators that can disrupt a person’s life and lead them to relapse.
Quitting drinking or taking other problematic substances suddenly causes your body to detoxify, which can trigger various physical symptoms. These may include headaches, nausea, vomiting, muscle aches, stomach cramps, and trembling. These symptoms generally will go away after three to seven days.
PAWS also includes psychological challenges that can linger for longer than a few days. These symptoms include:
- Insomnia
- Irritability
- Anxiety
- Depression
- Impaired concentration
- Lack of enthusiasm or motivation
- A lack of impulse control
- Substance cravings
These symptoms will persist for up to two years, with the frequency and severity of symptoms fading over time.
How Can You Manage Withdrawal Symptoms?
Post-acute withdrawal symptoms can last for one to two years and sometimes longer, depending on the severity of the substance abuse and the dedication the person has to get healthy. While the best option is to work with a professional therapist, there are things you can do at home to help alleviate these symptoms.
Educate yourself on the symptoms of post-acute withdrawal syndrome. Take time to practice daily self-care, such as deep breathing exercises, yoga, meditation, or reciting a personal mantra. Other ways you can help with managing withdrawal symptoms include:
- Start a journal and write about your experiences and how they made you feel
- Share your feelings with others
- Avoid triggering situations or people
- Practice relaxation techniques every day
If you’re abusing methamphetamine, opioids, cocaine, benzodiazepines, marijuana, or other substances, you’re at risk of developing PAWS.
How Do You Treat Post-Acute Withdrawal Symptoms?
While there’s no cure for substance use disorders, treating post-acute withdrawal symptoms is possible through an accredited addiction treatment program. They combine proven therapeutic methods with medication to create a whole-person recovery experience with a long track record of success.
Medication-Assisted Treatment
Medical staff will evaluate you and create a medication plan for you to follow. The staff will administer medications and monitor you for adverse side effects throughout the program. These medications can ease physical and mental withdrawal symptoms so you can safely break free from the addiction.
Additionally, you can take supplements, such as Omega-3 fatty acids, magnesium, vitamin B, and adapters, such as ginseng, light, and turmeric.
Behavioral Therapy
As part of a treatment program, you’ll participate in group and private therapy sessions utilizing cognitive-behavioral and dialectal behavior therapy (DBT). These programs address the behaviors that are created by the addiction and replace them with new, healthier behaviors. Instead of reaching for another drink, you learn to say “no, thank you” and walk away to call a sponsor or trusted friend.
In addition to behavioral therapy, treatment centers offer holistic therapy to help build confidence and self-esteem. These include yoga and meditation, nutrition education, and creative self-expression.
Lifestyle Changes
Enrolling in a treatment program is one of the best ways to learn to manage PAWS and lead a healthy and productive lifestyle. They’ll discuss several lifestyle changes that can help you better manage your symptoms. These will include the benefits of healthy eating, joining an exercise program, the importance of getting a good night’s sleep, and how to avoid triggers.
Enroll in Addiction Treatment at The Ranch PA Today
Recovery Ranch PA welcomes those struggling with post-acute withdrawal syndrome. Our team has experience treating all types of addiction and will sit down with you to talk about the reasons you drink or use drugs. We’ll develop a whole-person recovery experience that can include detox, residential mental health treatment, aftercare, and alumni programs. You’ll participate in group and private therapy sessions where you’ll learn many healthy coping skills to stop the abuse once and for all.
If you or a loved one is struggling with post-acute withdrawal symptoms, today is the best day to enroll. Fill out our online form or call 717.969.9126 today to schedule a consultation and tour of our addiction treatment center in Wrightsville, Pennsylvania.