Published On: November 5, 2015|Categories: Uncategorized|266 words|1.3 min read|

Why We Relapse

Relapse in the treatment of alcoholism is common—but not inevitable—for several reasons, including post-acute withdrawal symptoms, stress, and the fact that recovery programs are voluntary, and most importantly because it is easy to forget that addiction is a fatal disease.

Post-Acute Withdrawal

When we stop using drugs or alcohol, we enter an acute withdrawal phase of withdrawal, the first stage, if the quantity and frequency of use were sufficient enough to produce symptoms. Acute withdrawal symptoms, which often can last 7 to 10 days, usually not longer than a few weeks, are mostly physical and vary depending on the person and the drug. But acute withdrawal symptoms that last for months after we stop using our drug of choice are a condition known as post-acute withdrawal syndrome (PAWS), the second stage of withdrawal, that affects us emotionally and mentally and can last for up to 2 years.

Some of the common PAWS symptoms are:

  • An inability to think clearly
  • Emotional overreacting (during good times or bad times)
  • Memory impairment
  • Problems sleeping
  • Problems with physical coordination
  • Stress sensitivity

After a head injury that results in a concussion, a person can experience post-concussion syndrome weeks to months later with exactly the same symptoms we see in post-acute withdrawal. Like a blow to the head, addiction damages its target, the brain. Experiencing post-acute withdrawal symptoms can contribute to a relapse in the treatment of alcoholism.

Strategies to deal with PAWS symptoms include:

  • Self-care, including a balanced diet and exercise
  • Patience with yourself and others
  • Developing skills such as meditation to cope with stress and other triggers

In This Blog...

Related Posts

  • Enjoyed and serene lady dreaming and thinking outdoor with ocean beach and sunset light in background. Concept of happy lifestyle female people in outdoor leisure. Love and peace concept day

    PTSD and Substance Use: Overcoming Dual Diagnosis after Domestic Violence

    621 words|3.1 min read|
  • Different Ways Depression Can Lead to Substance Use

    650 words|3.3 min read|
  • A Complete Breakdown of the Detox Phase in Recovery

    889 words|4.4 min read|
  • What to Expect on a Recovery Journey from Alcohol Addiction

    718 words|3.6 min read|
medical pills or drugs on the table. healthcare. problems with drugs or medical help concept. copyspace for textDeath by Pain Killers: The Government Weighs In
Unintended Consequences: The Potential for Opioid Misprescribing Due to Healthcare Reform and Parity