What Are Addiction Withdrawls

When embarking on a journey toward recovery from addiction, it can help to be aware of the hurdles that may arise along the way. One significant challenge that people often face is withdrawal symptoms. Let's explore the nature of withdrawal symptoms, how they manifest, and their impact on the path to recovery.

I have written blog posts explaining in more detail additional important topics of addiction. You can find them below.

• Click here to learn more about the difference between addiction and substance use disorder.
• Click here to learn more about addiction criteria.
• Click here to learn more about triggers.
• Click here to learn more about cravings.
• Click here to learn more about support systems.
• Click here to learn more about relapse prevention planning.
• Click here to learn more about drink tracking.
• Click here to learn more about mood fluctuations.
• Click here to learn the difference between moderation and abstinence.

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The Body's Signal of Change

As someone decides to reduce or eliminate their substance or behavior of choice, the body's adaptation mechanisms are disrupted. Withdrawal symptoms then become a prominent sign of these adaptations. The body attempts to restore equilibrium, but the experience can be quite uncomfortable.

Here are some common experiences:

Physical Discomfort

• Nausea, vomiting, diarrhea
• Sweating and tremors
• Muscle aches and headaches
• Changes in heart rate and blood pressure

Psychological Challenges

• Anxiety and depression
• Irritability and mood swings
• Strong cravings for the substance or behavior

Sleep Struggles

• Insomnia or restless sleep
• Vivid and distressing dreams

Cognitive Impairment

• Difficulty concentrating and mental fog

Overwhelming Fatigue

• Feeling exhausted and lethargic

Heightened Pain Sensitivity

• Increased perception of physical pain

Understanding Psychological Symptoms

Psychological withdrawal, also referred to as emotional or mental withdrawal, encompasses the emotional and mental symptoms that emerge when someone dependent on a substance or behavior faces its reduction or cessation. While these symptoms do not exhibit physical discomfort, they can be equally, if not more, challenging.

Here is what that can look like:

• Cravings: Intense and persistent desires for a substance or behavior.
• Anxiety: Feelings of restlessness, nervousness, and impending doom.
• Depression: Overwhelming sadness, hopelessness, and a loss of interest in once-beloved activities.
• Irritability And Anger: A short temper and a quick trigger for irritation.
• Mood Swings: Rapid and unpredictable mood shifts, from extreme highs to lows.
• Lack Of Concentration: Difficulty focusing, decision-making, and clear thinking.
• Obsession And Preoccupation: Consuming thoughts about the substance or behavior.
• Emotional Numbness: Feeling emotionally detached or unable to experience pleasure.
• Sleep Disturbances: Insomnia, vivid and distressing dreams, or irregular sleep patterns.
• Guilt And Shame: Feelings of remorse and self-blame for past actions during the addiction.

The Mechanisms at Play

Withdrawal symptoms are the outcome of a series of adaptations within the body and brain, as they become accustomed to the persistent presence of a substance or behavior. This adaptation process involves several key elements.

• Neurochemical Shifts: The brain undergoes neurochemical changes, particularly with substances like drugs and alcohol. These changes can alter the natural production of neurotransmitters like dopamine, which influence our feelings of pleasure and reward.
• Tolerance Development: Over time, tolerance is developed, necessitating larger doses of the substance or more frequent engagement in the behavior to attain the desired effects. This tolerance perpetuates the dependency.

The Varying Timelines

The duration of withdrawal symptoms is far from one-size-fits-all, as it depends on a multitude of factors, including:

• The Substance Or Behavior: The specific substance or behavior from which withdrawing is a major determinant. Each substance has its own withdrawal timeline. Short-acting opioids, such as heroin, may entail a relatively shorter withdrawal period compared to long-acting opioids like methadone.
• Level Of Dependence: The extent of dependence is a key player. Those with a more profound or prolonged dependency often experience withdrawal symptoms over a more extended period.
• Individual Variability: Just as no two people are exactly alike, their withdrawal experiences can differ significantly. Some may undergo a faster or slower withdrawal process.
• Professional Support: The availability of professional treatment and support is a pivotal influencer. Medically supervised detox and therapeutic interventions can significantly alleviate withdrawal symptoms and potentially shorten their duration.
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The Phases of Withdrawal

Withdrawal symptoms follow a general pattern, which includes:

• Onset Phase: Symptoms typically begin shortly after discontinuing the substance or behavior. The timing of onset varies depending on the substance but generally occurs within hours or a few days after the last use.
• Peak Intensity: In most cases, withdrawal symptoms reach their peak in intensity within the first few days to a week.
• Gradual Subsiding: Following the peak, symptoms gradually start to subside. This phase can last for varying durations.
• Protracted Or Post-Acute Phase: Some may experience protracted withdrawal symptoms that persist for an extended period, often involving psychological and emotional challenges.

The Journey to Recovery

The severity and duration of withdrawal symptoms can vary greatly, influenced by factors like the specific substance or behavior, the level of dependence, and a person's health. For certain substances, such as alcohol, withdrawal symptoms can become life-threatening, underscoring the importance of professional guidance and support.

Here are 11 things to look out for to show that you are moving into recovery from uncomfortable withdrawal symptoms:

1. Resolution of Symptoms

• The most visible sign of recovery is the gradual disappearance of withdrawal symptoms. Physical discomfort, such as nausea or muscle aches, will diminish and eventually fade away. Similarly, psychological symptoms like anxiety and depression will improve over time.

2. Increased Comfort

• Recovery brings a growing sense of physical and emotional comfort, feeling less distressed, agitated, and physically unwell as withdrawal symptoms become less severe.

3. Regaining Control

• Recovery involves taking back control over life and behavior. With reduced withdrawal symptoms, the person can think more clearly and make healthier choices.

4. Improved Sleep

• Better sleep patterns often emerge as recovery progresses. Insomnia and sleep disturbances gradually give way to a more regular and restful sleep routine.

5. Stabilized Mood

• Emotional stability and an improved mood are positive signs of recovery. Mood swings, irritability, and anxiety occur less frequently as they move forward.

6. Reduced Cravings

• Over time and with continued recovery efforts, cravings for the addictive substance or behavior should lessen in both frequency and intensity. Managing and ultimately overcoming these cravings is a significant aspect of recovery.

7. Increased Engagement in Treatment

• Active participation in treatment, whether through therapy or support groups, is a positive indicator of recovery. It demonstrates a commitment to the process.

8. Re-established Routine

• Recovery involves re-establishing a daily routine that does not revolve around the addictive substance or behavior. This may include returning to work, school, or other responsibilities.

9. Social Reintegration

• Recovery often means rebuilding social connections and relationships that might have been strained during addiction. It is a return to a more fulfilling and supportive social life.

10. Physical Well-Being

• Improved physical health and increased energy levels are also signs of recovery. This may include adopting healthier eating habits, engaging in regular exercise, and prioritizing self-care.

11. Continued Sobriety or Abstinence

• The ultimate goal of recovery is to maintain recovery, whatever that might look like is very personal and individualized, from the substance or behavior that led to addiction. Resisting the urge to relapse into undesired behavior is a significant milestone.

Take Action Now

It is never too late to begin the journey to recovery. I have designed tools and resources using my expertise to help those with addictive behaviors overcome and live happier and healthier lives. 

If you or a loved one is struggling with addiction, I can help. If you are interested, you can check out the available resources here: Click here to learn more.

Below are additional resources that can help with taking that first step toward lasting change. 

Recovery Journal. One Day at a Time: Daily Steps to Overcoming Addiction

Rewired: A Bold New Approach To Addiction and Recovery

Addiction Recovery Skills to Rewire the Brain: A Mindful Workbook to Understand Addiction, Stop Unhealthy Behaviors, Manage Cravings, and Prevent Relapse to Start Living a Mentally Healthy Life

About the Author

Jessica Taylor is a licensed therapist and board certified coach who contributes to the promotion of mental health and addiction awareness by providing educational resources and information.