What Is Withdrawal? Understanding It Before Starting Treatment
Withdrawal is the physical and psychological reaction that occurs when a person stops using a substance they have used continuously for a long time. Understanding these symptoms in advance helps both the person struggling with addiction and their family prepare for treatment in a way that is more appropriate and safer.
Why the Body Experiences Withdrawal
When a substance is used continuously over a long period, the body adjusts the chemical balance in the brain to accommodate its constant presence. When use stops abruptly, the brain needs time to restore that balance, which produces unwanted physical and psychological symptoms in the early stage of stopping the substance.
The severity of withdrawal depends on several factors, including the type of substance used, the amount and duration of use, and each person's underlying physical condition. Some people may experience only mild symptoms, while others may have severe symptoms that require close medical supervision.
Common Symptoms During Withdrawal
Symptoms vary depending on the type of substance and the duration of use, but commonly include fatigue, insomnia, irritability, anxiety, and muscle aches. In some cases, severe psychological symptoms may also occur, which is an important reason why a person should not be left to stop using a substance on their own without supervision from a knowledgeable care team.
Symptoms are usually most severe during the first 2-3 days after stopping use, and gradually ease over the following week. However, for certain substances, psychological symptoms such as cravings to use again may persist much longer, requiring concurrent psychological therapy.
Why Withdrawal Should Happen Under Supervision, Not Alone
Stopping substance use on one's own at home without supervision carries physical risks and a high likelihood of relapse when the symptoms become unbearable. A knowledgeable care team can assess the severity of symptoms and provide appropriate care promptly.
How Petch Nava Cares for Patients During Withdrawal
Petch Nava therefore begins every program with a physical stabilization phase under close supervision by the care team, ensuring patients get through withdrawal as safely as possible before moving on to psychological therapy.