Anyone who has experienced physical addiction to a drug can attest to the difficult and painful process of drug withdrawal symptoms. Unfortunately, withdrawal can occur in anyone who has a certain level of dependence, particularly addicts. Withdrawal occurs when a person who is dependent on a drug or is addicted suddenly stops taking it or goes ‘cold turkey.’
When the drug is no longer present, the body becomes confused and does not know how to deal with the reduction in this substance that it physically craves. The body’s attempt to maintain its balance of chemicals and hormones without the drug is what causes drug withdrawal symptoms. This self-regulating process is called homeostasis. Without the drug, the body desperately tries to create a new normal. This can cause the brain to have huge fluctuations in chemicals, leading to many painful mental and physical side effects. These painful side effects are the hallmark of drug withdrawal symptoms, and the severity of these drug withdrawal symptoms can vary.
What Are Some Withdrawal Symptoms From Different Drugs?
Each drug has its own withdrawal symptoms. An Opioids user may feel these:
- Anxiety
- Nervousness
- Difficulty sleeping
- Frequent yawning
- Flu-like symptoms
- Nausea
- Diarrhea and vomiting
- Hot and cold flashes with goosebumps
- Runny nose
- Excessive sweating
- Muscle cramps/body aches
A cocaine addict may have these withdrawal symptoms:
- A deep depression
- Psychotic episodes
- Nervousness
- Hallucinations
- Irritation
- Suicidal thoughts
- Thoughts of self-harm
- Tiredness or lethargy
Withdrawal from alcohol – which is actually a form of a drug can include:
- Anxiety
- Insomnia
- Irritable mood
- Nausea and vomiting
- Tremors
- Seizures
- Delirious periods
- Hallucinations
As you can see, there are many horrible side effects of drug withdrawal, and most addicts or dependants are unwilling or unable to cope with these symptoms. This means that addiction may continue well after the addict wants to quit, as they are physically unable to beat the withdrawal. This is where help and treatment are desperately needed.
How Long Do Drug Withdrawal Symptoms Last?
The length of time someone will suffer from withdrawal symptoms varies on the type of drug they are addicted to, the length of time they have had their addiction, and how intense their addiction was – how often and how much of the drug they took on a regular basis. It could take as little as a few days, to as long as a few months – in some rare cases. Anyone who has been taking drugs for a long time should seek medical help when thinking about stopping. It can be a very dangerous process if not done in the right way. Sometimes weaning is necessary or the administering of certain medications to stop the severity of withdrawal.
Treatment Programs
Various medications can be used to help addicts and dependents avoid serious withdrawals and get off the drugs. In combination with these, certain talking therapies need to combat the underlying behavior and causes. A person may need to go through partial hospitalization such as an intensive outpatient program or an outpatient rehab service for anyone who has already been a drug addict inpatient.
Take the Next Step in Your Recovery Journey
Ready to take the next step in your recovery journey? Evolve Indy is here to guide you with compassion, expertise, and a community dedicated to your long-term success. Our comprehensive programs are designed not just to treat addiction, but to empower you with the skills and support needed to build a fulfilling, sober life. We understand the courage it takes to ask for help, and our team is committed to providing a safe, respectful environment where you can heal and grow.
Don’t wait another day to start your path to a brighter future. Contact our admissions team now to learn more about our outpatient and intensive outpatient programs and find the right level of care for you. Let’s build a foundation for lasting recovery together.
Why Evolve Indy?
At Evolve Indy, you’re more than just a client. You’re part of a community. Our evidence-based approach is tailored to your unique needs, combining individual therapy, group support, and holistic wellness to treat the whole person. With a proven track record of helping individuals in the Indianapolis area reclaim their lives from addiction, we offer the dedicated expertise and unwavering support you need to evolve beyond addiction and thrive.