When you abruptly stop using a substance that your body has become addicted to, you will experience symptoms of illness. This is known as withdrawal, and it is a direct result of your body adapting to the absence of a drug it has become dependent on.
Drugs like heroin, opioids, and some painkillers act on a type of neurotransmitter in the brain called dopamine. Dopamine, normally produced in the brain, creates feelings of euphoria and happiness. However, after long-term use of some drugs, the brain stops creating its dopamine and instead relies on the drug to produce these feelings. When the drug is removed, the body reacts to the sudden absence, creating symptoms of withdrawal.
Withdrawal will not happen after one or two uses. Instead, symptoms will appear once the body has become dependent on the drug. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), dependence on a drug can occur even with prescribed use.
Symptoms of withdrawal vary and may range from mild to severe, and are sometimes serious enough to require medical attention. Some factors affecting withdrawal symptoms include:
- The addictive substance
- How long has the substance been used
- Age and physical condition
- The method of withdrawal
Physical and Psychological Dependence
Withdrawal happens when the body and mind react to the absence of a substance they’ve grown accustomed to. This process can vary greatly depending on whether the dependency is physical, psychological, or both. Physical dependence occurs when your body becomes so used to the substance that it needs it to function normally. When the substance is removed, your body reacts with physical symptoms like shaking, sweating, or nausea. On the other hand, psychological dependence is the belief that you need the substance to feel good, manage stress, or fit in. This kind of dependence can be just as challenging as physical withdrawal, as the mind struggles to break free from the thought patterns that associate the substance with relief or pleasure.
What to Expect During Withdrawal
While symptoms do vary, they often include changes in mood, depression, irritability, and anxiety. The person might experience insomnia and fatigue, and both nausea and cravings are possible. Symptoms of common cold, such as a runny nose and feeling hot or cold, might be present.
Depending on the addictive substance, other severe symptoms may include confusion, paranoia, disorientation, and tremors.
The duration of both mild and severe symptoms might vary from a few days to weeks, but they will eventually diminish.
Opiate Withdrawal Symptoms
According to the National Institute on Drug Abuse, opiates are one of the most widely abused drugs. Opiate withdrawals can be more serious than with other substances, especially when the person is coming off of drugs like heroin and morphine.
The following are common, early symptoms of opiate withdrawal:
- teary eyes
- restlessness
- insomnia
- anxiety
- muscle aches
- runny nose
- severe yawning
After a couple of days, the symptoms of opiate withdrawal will worsen and will likely include:
- high blood pressure
- increased heart rate
- nausea & vomiting
- blurry vision
- abdominal pain
- diarrhea
Symptoms are usually not life-threatening and only last about seventy-two hours. However, some people may require medical attention. Doctors can prescribe medication to help ease the symptoms of withdrawal.
Alcohol Withdrawal Symptoms
The symptoms of alcohol withdrawal are often similar to those of opiate withdrawal and include:
- headaches
- anxiety
- shakiness
- nausea & vomiting
- sweating
- hallucinations
- seizures
Some people also experience something known as delirium tremens. Also referred to as DTs, delirium tremens can cause extreme delusions and hallucinations as well as confusion, rapid heart rate, fever, excessive sweating, and high blood pressure.
Marijuana Withdrawal Symptoms
Marijuana is a commonly misunderstood drug. While most people do not believe it is an addictive substance, it can be just as addictive as other drugs if used regularly. Symptoms are not likely to be dangerous or severe but include:
- irritability
- insomnia
- loss of appetite
- mood swings
- headaches
- lack of concentration
- marijuana cravings
- depression
Is Withdrawal Safe?
While withdrawal is a natural process, it’s important to note that it can sometimes be dangerous, especially when withdrawing from substances like alcohol, benzodiazepines, or opioids. For these substances, medical supervision is highly recommended to ensure that the withdrawal process is as safe and comfortable as possible. Medical professionals can help monitor your symptoms, provide necessary medications to ease discomfort, and prevent life-threatening complications. Never hesitate to seek medical advice before starting the withdrawal process—doing so could make all the difference in your journey to recovery.
Different Treatment Settings for Withdrawal
Everyone’s journey through withdrawal is different, and the path you take depends on the severity of your symptoms and the substance you’re withdrawing from. For some, home-based withdrawal may be an option, especially if the symptoms are mild. This can often be managed with the support of a trusted friend, family member, and healthcare provider. If your symptoms require more oversight, outpatient treatment might be the next best step. This involves meeting with a healthcare professional regularly, receiving support, and learning coping strategies. For more severe cases, residential treatment in a detox center or hospital may be necessary, offering 24/7 care and the opportunity to focus solely on your recovery without outside distractions. Regardless of the setting, the key is to choose one that aligns with your needs and ensures you have the support you need to safely manage withdrawal.
Time Frame for Withdrawal Symptoms
How long withdrawal lasts can vary significantly from person to person. Generally, mild withdrawal symptoms might last anywhere from a few days to a week, while more severe symptoms could stretch over several weeks. The duration is influenced by various factors, such as the substance involved, how long it’s been used, and your overall health. Some symptoms, such as cravings, may continue even after physical symptoms subside, sometimes lasting for months or even years. Understanding this timeline can help you better prepare for what to expect and remind you that, although it can feel overwhelming, the process is temporary, and recovery is within reach.
Cravings and How to Manage Them
One of the most challenging aspects of withdrawal is the cravings. These can start as mild but can quickly intensify as your body and mind crave the feelings of relief they associate with the substance. Cravings are not just about wanting the substance physically; they’re deeply tied to your brain’s learned patterns and emotional responses. Managing cravings can be one of the hardest parts of recovery, but it’s crucial for long-term success. To help combat these urges, try engaging in distraction techniques, like going for a walk or reading a book, or practicing mindfulness and relaxation exercises. For some, professional support or pharmacotherapy—medications designed to ease cravings—can be incredibly helpful during the withdrawal phase.
Follow-Up Treatment
Withdrawal is just the beginning of the recovery process. To ensure lasting success, it’s essential to plan for follow-up treatment. This could include continued therapy, group counseling, or outpatient rehabilitation programs to help you stay on track. The road to recovery involves not just getting through withdrawal but building new habits, strengthening your emotional health, and learning to manage triggers that may lead to relapse. Having a structured follow-up plan will help you maintain the momentum you’ve gained during withdrawal and set you up for long-term sobriety.
Quitting any addictive substance may seem hopeless, but there is help. America’s Rehab Campuses provide both medical detox therapies to help ease the discomfort of withdrawal symptoms and behavioral therapy for long-term sobriety.
