Understanding the Stages of Withdrawal

Recreational drug and alcohol use is pervasive in our society. No one who begins drinking or experimenting with drugs sets out to become addicted, and many hold the belief that it will never happen to them. Still, millions of Americans struggle with substance use disorders (SUD). SUD is a chronic health condition that has far-reaching impacts on the affected person and those who love them.

If you or a loved one struggles with SUD, a Nashville drug and alcohol detox center can provide the relief you seek. The Ranch is one of the leading addiction treatment programs in Tennessee. We know that asking for help is hard, but doing so is the first step toward achieving the life you want. Contact us online or call 888.486.3821 to learn about our treatment programs and how we can help. 

The Facts About Withdrawal

Simply put, withdrawal from drugs or alcohol is unpleasant and, in some cases, as with alcohol or opioids, can even be dangerous. Withdrawal symptoms and their severity vary depending on factors, including the substance involved, the length of use, and the severity of addiction. For many people with SUD, the fear of withdrawal symptoms and the desire to avoid them are barriers to treatment, contributing to a cycle of chronic relapse. 

Knowing what to expect from withdrawal and having ample support in place can help alleviate these fears and effectively manage the detox process. Following are the general stages of withdrawal:

• The anticipatory stage – This stage begins before the last use, and symptoms include anxiety, fear, and cravings. Most people relapse following this stage.
• The early withdrawal stage – This stage lasts a few hours to a day after the last use. Mild symptoms include anxiety, irritability, profuse sweating, tiredness, and insomnia.
• The acute withdrawal stage – One to three days after the last use, severe symptoms peak and may include nausea, vomiting, muscle aches, fever, chills, high blood pressure, agitation, and mood swings.
• Post-acute withdrawal syndrome (PAWS) – One week to several months after acute withdrawal, intermittent symptoms of PAWS may include anxiety, irritability, sleep disturbances, poor concentration, and low energy. 

For most, the acute withdrawal phase is the most challenging, as symptoms are at their worst. However, following acute withdrawal, the body is free of all substances, and physical dependency has passed. Psychological symptoms, as described above in the PAWS phase, become the most significant risk factor for relapse, which is why drug and alcohol detox needs to be followed with treatment to address the underlying factors that contributed to the development of SUD. 

Managing Withdrawal Symptoms

Seeking help from a medically supervised drug and alcohol detox program is the most effective way to manage withdrawal symptoms safely. A multidisciplinary treatment team of doctors, nurses, psychiatrists, therapists, and other addiction treatment specialists can ensure that your physical and mental health needs are met, making the detox process more tolerable. 

Within such a program, withdrawal symptoms are managed through:

• Medication-assisted treatment
• Monitoring vital signs
• Nutritional support
• Individual counseling and therapy
• Group therapy
• Relaxation and stress management techniques

Often, individuals with SUD have made multiple attempts to detox on their own. A history of chronic relapse, particularly with opioids, stimulants, and alcohol, can increase the severity and dangers of withdrawal symptoms. Being in a detox program provides you with a clean, safe, supportive environment where there is no access to drugs, alcohol, or environmental triggers, which significantly reduces the risk of relapse.

Call The Ranch for Drug and Alcohol Detox Today

Addiction is a life-threatening disease that requires professional treatment. Recovery is a lifelong journey that involves commitment and patience. At The Ranch, we know that you will face setbacks along with your achievements. We offer a full continuum of care, from detox through aftercare planning, to help ensure you receive the personalized, comprehensive treatment needed to meet your goals and experience the joys of life without the chains of addiction.

Call 888.486.3821 or contact us online to talk with an intake specialist and enroll in drug and alcohol detox today.