Post-acute-withdrawal syndrome

Post-acute withdrawal syndrome (often abbreviated as PAWS) is a set of persistent impairments that occur after withdrawal from alcohol, opiates, benzodiazepines, antidepressants, and other substances. Individuals with PAWS experience a variety of symptoms from a constellation of psychiatric and physical health issues. These symptoms include mood swings, irritability, fatigue, variable energy, trouble with sleep, difficulty with cognitive and executive functions, and difficulty in maintaining social relationships.

Symptoms

The symptoms of PAWS include:

• Mood swings
• Irritability
• Fatigue
• Variable energy
• Trouble with sleep
• Difficulty with cognitive and executive functions
• Difficulty in maintaining social relationships

Causes

PAWS is caused by the lingering effects of drug or alcohol addiction. The brain chemistry of the individual is altered due to the substance abuse, and it takes time for the brain to return to its normal state. This can result in a variety of symptoms that can last for weeks, months, or even years after the individual has stopped using the substance.

Treatment

Treatment for PAWS typically involves a combination of medication and therapy. Medication can help to manage the symptoms, while therapy can help the individual to develop coping strategies and to address any underlying issues that may have contributed to the substance abuse in the first place.

See also

• Withdrawal
• Substance abuse
• Addiction

References

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