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What is addiction? -

Addiction is when someone finds it hard to stop doing something that makes them feel good. There are different types of addiction.

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Chemical addiction -

Chemical addiction is addiction that involves the use of substances, such as alcohol, drugs, and nicotine.

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A tricky subject -

Chemical addiction can be a tricky subject because there’s often confusion around what constitutes substance misuse, dependency, and addiction.

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Behavioral addiction -

Behavioral addiction refers to addiction that involves compulsive behaviors. These are repeated behaviors that occur even if they don’t offer any real benefit.

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Types of behavioral addiction -

This type of addiction includes shopping, gambling, and smartphone addictions.

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Further addictions -

Even foods, such as sugary chocolates, are considered a behavioral addiction. One major sign is using it to manage unwanted emotions.

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Physical vs. psychological dependence -

Psychological addiction occurs when you believe you need the addictive substance or behavior to function. For example, you might think that you need to gamble to unwind.

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Physical vs. psychological dependence - Physical dependence means that withdrawal symptoms appear if you stop the addictive substance or behavior.

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What are the symptoms of addiction withdrawal? -

Withdrawal symptoms can be different for everyone. Symptoms depend on the type of substance and behavior, and how long it's been used for. A person's age, physical health, and mental state also play a role.

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Common withdrawal symptoms -

Biological changes happen in the brain during withdrawal, as the body seeks homeostasis, or stability. This causes a mix of physical and emotional symptoms.

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Sadness -

A person going through withdrawal might experience extreme sadness, which can even mimic depression. Do note that feeling sad is a normal part of the process. It's temporary and lasts only a few days.

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Fatigue -

Fatigue is normal for people withdrawing from drugs and alcohol. Your body must recover from its damage, as well as from sleep deprivation and other effects from the addiction.

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Anxiety -

Some anxiety during withdrawal is to be expected. And if you took a drug or drank alcohol to relax, you're likely to feel more tense.

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Mood swings -

Rapid changes in mood are also common during withdrawal. This back-and-forth can be draining, for both you and those around you.

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How to deal with withdrawal symptoms -

There are various methods of managing withdrawal. The following tips can help you get through.

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Feel and work through your grief -

As you're grieving the loss of something you enjoyed, leaning into the emotions can help you come to terms with them.

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If your feelings of depression continue, see your therapist -

You might be experiencing a substance-induced mood disorder, or you might have had a preexisting mood disorder, which was masked by your addiction.

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Rest -

Withdrawal fatigue is exhausting. Listen to your body, and consider taking a break from your usual activities.

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Practice relaxation skills -

Try meditation and deep breathing, as this might help you rest your mind and body.

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Remember that you're safe, and that the anxiety is part of the healing process -

However, if your anxiety symptoms intensify and are accompanied by other physical symptoms, contact your doctor.

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Stick to a structured sleep schedule -

Try and be consistent with bedtime and wake-up time. Try not to drink anything caffeinated late in the afternoon, especially if it was your addiction.

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Go out in nature -

Whether you hike, garden, or swim in the ocean, contact with nature is another way to feed the senses in a nourishing way.

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Stay hydrated -

Dehydration is common during withdrawal. Therefore, it's important to drink enough water to allow the body to heal properly.

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Try journaling -

Writing is a powerful tool that can help you process your feelings. It's also a great way to cope when cravings arise.

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Move your body -

Any exercise is good for you. It releases stress and oxygenates the body. Plus, it improves your sleep quality.

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Keep a balanced diet -

Diet can play a big role in healing both the mind and body. Eating meals that are rich in proteins, essential vitamins, and nutrients is essential for restoring healthy brain and body functioning.

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Complement more traditional medical detox strategies with holistic methods -

Chiropractic care, massage therapy, and acupuncture have shown to help manage withdrawal symptoms and cravings during detox.

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Get help -

If withdrawal is interfering with your ability to function or if you feel you can't cope, see your healthcare provider or talk with a therapist as soon as possible.

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How long does withdrawal last? -

The duration depends on the substance used or the behavior, along with the length and intensity of your addiction. It's typically just a few days, but even weeks or months in some cases.

Sources: (Verywell Health) (Healthline) (American Addiction Centers)

See also: The real impact of alcohol in your body

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