The withdrawal definition encompasses the symptoms and process of your body adjusting to the absence of an addictive substance. Signs and symptoms of this process often follow a predictable pattern, even though symptoms may vary depending on the drug. Symptoms tend to also exaggerate brain functions previously suppressed by the drug.
What Is The Withdrawal Definition?
When your body forms a dependence on a substance, you can expect symptoms of withdrawal to start once use of the substance stops. Different drugs have different symptoms and timelines. Symptoms may also be affected by the length of time a person has used and if other substances are used at the same time. Normally, drugs are absorbed into the body and remain active for a specific time period. This is referred to as the drug’s half-life.
In very basic terms, a person using depressant substances will rebound with exaggerated symptoms on the opposite end of the spectrum. On the other hand, a person abusing stimulants will have rebound symptoms on the opposite end of that spectrum. For example, someone abusing alcohol or opiates may find agitation, nervousness and the inability to sleep among their symptoms. Someone abusing cocaine or meth may find crushing depression and fatigue among their symptoms.
Symptoms of Withdrawal Definition
Symptoms of withdrawal vary by substance type. The two most dangerous substance withdrawals are alcohol and benzos. Both include the possibility of seizures, hallucinations and elevated blood pressure and heart rate. Withdrawal from these substances should never be attempted without professional medical supervision.
Other drugs like opiates include a variety of uncomfortable symptoms that can be compared to a bad case of the flu. Stimulants cause symptoms like changing moods, sleepiness and hunger, but can occasionally also cause dangerous depression.
Get A Withdrawal Definition at Steps to Recovery
Seeking help at a quality drug rehab like Steps to Recovery in Levittown, PA is the best way to keep the fear of withdrawal from controlling you. Medical detox allows you to remove the substance from your body while receiving constant monitoring and medical assistance for any unsafe symptoms. After detox, you can move on to Steps to Recovery’s two-phase treatment program. Phase one includes partial hospitalization (PHP) and intensive outpatient care. Phase two includes learning life skills and making aftercare plans.
Get help with the following at Steps to Recovery:
- Understanding addiction
- Withdrawal symptoms
- Effective communication
- Health insurance verification
- Long-term sobriety goals
Don’t allow addiction and the fear of withdrawal to control your life. Call Steps to Recovery today at 866.488.8684, whether you need help for yourself or a loved one. You can overcome your addiction and have a lasting recovery with professional help.
