Protracted Withdrawal Syndrome(PAWS): How to Recognize and Cope

Protracted withdrawal, also called PAWS or PWS, refers to the symptoms that occur after someone stops using drugs or alcohol. PAWS can be the biggest threat to the recovery of your health and well-being. Looking at this simply you'll see those withdrawal symptoms are a signal that your body needs help – and there are many methods to help manage these challenges during recovery. First, you must understand that the symptoms are not just physical. They can be mental and emotional as well making them even more difficult to detect and overcome. Lyle produced this video to help you learn the signs of PAWS while answering our viewer's top questions. We want people to get the right support with recovery time and their overall health while dealing with these painful episodes.

00:00 - 00:15 Intro
00:16 - 01:19 What is Acute Withdrawal?
01:20 - 02:19 What is Post-Acute Withdrawal?
02:19 - 03:15 What is Protracted Withdrawal?
03:16 - 03:40 Is dizziness a withdrawal symptom?
03:41 - 04:30 Do withdrawals come in waves?
04:31 - 06:23 How is withdrawal different from other predictors of Relapse?
06:24 - 07:08 Are withdrawal symptoms permanent?
07:09 - 10:03 what are benzodiazepine protracted withdrawal symptoms?
10:04 - 12:50 what are the benefits of holistic of medication tapering and addiction treatment?
12:51 - 14:10 Outro

Common signs and symptoms of protracted withdrawal can include:
1. Fatigue or excessive tiredness that is difficult to overcome, even with adequate sleep and rest.
2. Irritability, mood swings, anxiety, or depression that can be severe or prolonged.
3. Difficulty concentrating or focusing attention, which may lead to problems with memory or information processing.
4. Physical symptoms such as headaches, body aches, muscle spasms, or gastrointestinal distress.
5. Sleep disturbances such as insomnia, restless sleep, nightmares, vivid dreams, and sleep apnea.
6. Sensory disturbances such as hypersensitivity to light and sound as well as sensitivity to odors and taste abnormalities.
7. Cravings for unhealthy foods and/or an inability to maintain a healthy diet or weight gain despite dietary changes.
... and many many more

Protracted withdrawal can emerge throughout the recovery process, making recovery unpredictable and challenging to cope with. This is best treated by seeking medical assistance and guidance before attempting any cessation. This may include addressing underlying causes such as unresolved trauma, lack of emotional support, or unsatisfactory lifestyle. Alternative to Meds Center staff has helped thousands of people successfully taper off drugs and avoid protracted withdrawal symptoms.

-----Benefits of Holistic Medication Tapering and Addiction Treatment-----
The common practice of medicating a person in recovery can obscure the origin of symptoms and delay full recovery. Psychosocial (non-medicated) treatment was shown superior to prescription medication, in a meta-analysis published in the Journal of Addictive Behaviors. Holistic treatment options allow the individual and their care providers to tailor a customized treatment plan to fit their individual needs in recovery. Remember that quitting medication alone, “cold turkey,” is hazardous. The process requires a thoughtful combination of therapy and medication tapering under the care of mental health and medical professionals.

ATMC!
When beginning the incredible journey of recovery, many aspects of the process can seem daunting, especially the potential for intense and protracted withdrawal symptoms. While it is true that PWS/PAWS can last for years, you don’t have to despair. There is freedom in recovery, and with Alternative to Meds, you can find your own way to resolve your symptoms holistically with thoughtful, informed care.

Withdrawal symptoms and other issues related to the risk of relapse can be tackled with confidence through knowledge! Contact us today to learn more about our unique approach. Your journey to recovery is within your grasp with our help. Don’t let the fear of withdrawals or PAWS keep you from improving your life.

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[Noir-srbw]

Im 31 months of k this is torchure. I hope this goes aoon they say we all heal.

[Snowflake]

Good information. Im going through protracted now. My symptoms are brain pressure and burning, pulsating head and Spine. Cant walk for long or stand up. Feels more like an injury. 12 months off. Can you heal? Too fast taper by Dr from sertraline 15 year use.

[EllieLindhorst]

Im really scared i still wont be myself with all my feelings when i go off abilify. Is there hope for me? Im trying to excersise and eat right at least and maybe thats enough

[jrman]

I'm 23 months off and still having severe withdrawal. Can anyone help me? Save my life