Different drugs have varying effects. For instance, cocaine may cause an intense rush and an initial feeling of high energy. However, most drugs have one thing in common—they overstimulate the brain’s pleasure center. Over time, this changes the brain’s chemistry, making it very uncomfortable and even painful to function without the drug.
A common challenge faced by individuals in recovery is Post Acute Withdrawal Syndrome (PAWS). This condition threatens almost all rehab patients and can persist for months or even years, making it difficult for alcoholics to avoid relapse.
Fortunately, alcohol addiction treatment has evolved significantly over the past few decades. With advancements in understanding the neurological basis of addiction, treatment centers like Nasha Mukti Kendra have helped many alcoholics achieve lasting sobriety.
Common Symptoms of Alcohol Abuse
- Constant alcohol cravings
- New cravings for food or other substances
- Depression, anxiety, and fear
- Mood swings
- Overreaction or underreaction to daily situations
- Loss of motor skills
- Short-term memory issues
- Inability to focus
- Fatigue
- Hypersensitivity to physical pain
Some of these symptoms are similar to those experienced during withdrawal. Although they are less severe, the long-term persistence of these mental, physical, and emotional struggles makes it harder for alcoholics to stay sober.
In some cases, PAWS sufferers may appear to be under the influence, leading society to stigmatize them as “dry drunks.” This term is harmful and frustrating for people who are genuinely struggling to avoid relapse. Many recovering alcoholics report experiencing some of these symptoms. In fact, some experts believe that PAWS affects all recovering addicts, even if statistics don’t fully capture this reality.
Effective Strategies at Nasha Mukti Kendra for Managing PAWS
- Self-Reflection:
Through individual counseling sessions, recovering alcoholics explore the root causes of their addictions. They identify triggers—people, places, or situations—that lead to compulsive drinking. To avoid relapse, it is essential to reflect on thoughts and behaviors and apply the lessons learned during recovery. - Purposeful Living:
Depression and isolation are common emotional symptoms of PAWS, which can make sober living feel meaningless. Setting daily goals, making long-term plans, and seeking a deeper purpose in life are vital steps toward overcoming such feelings. - Open Communication:
Trusted friends and family members play a significant role in helping recovering alcoholics manage PAWS. They provide a safe space to vent and offer honest feedback about behaviors that might lead to relapse. - Medication:
In some cases, rehab clinicians may prescribe medications to manage specific PAWS symptoms, especially for individuals suffering from depression or hormonal imbalances.
Conclusion
Why does one person fall into severe addiction while another does not? There isn’t a single answer. Addiction results from various factors, often linked to untreated mental or physical pain and the inability to self-soothe. Alcohol abuse affects families across all backgrounds and communities, but help is available.
Treatments like detoxification and long-term rehabilitation offer a path to recovery. Drug detox is the first step in reducing withdrawal symptoms and helping individuals transition to life without alcohol or drugs. Once detox is complete, a personalized recovery plan can be tailored to meet the individual’s needs.
Alcoholism is a life-threatening condition, but the alcohol addiction treatment at Nasha Mukti Kendra in Jammu can help you regain control of your life and achieve lasting recovery.