14/11/2025
Sharing it in Public Interest to spread awareness on the subject and its related complications …
What is Post Acute Withdrawal Syndrome?
Post-Acute Withdrawal Syndrome (PAWS) is the second stage that takes place after acute withdrawal ends and it comes with its own problematic symptoms.
It is sometimes called prolonged withdrawal syndrome, or protracted withdrawal syndrome, but whatever the name, PAWS symptoms are much less pleasant than its cute acronym would lead you to believe.
The unfortunate reality of Post Acute Withdrawal Syndrome is that the symptoms can be a trigger for relapse.
Because this second stage of withdrawal occurs during the period in which the brain chemistry is returning to normal, it can take 20 months or more before it has passed.
Often people going through benzodiazepine withdrawal will notice the longest period of PAWS symptoms that can last for a year or more.
Withdrawal from opioids and PAWS alcohol symptoms can be less persistent than benzos, but may still be long-lasting and may be marked by bouts of depression or anxiety.
In severe cases, patients may experience delirium tremens.
The most important thing people in recovery need to understand is that recovery takes time. If a person goes into detox expecting it to be over within a matter of days, they are far more likely to be unprepared for the journey ahead.
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