Understanding PAWS: Managing Post-Acute Withdrawal Symptoms with Andrea Williams
Typically, [PAWS are] reversible. You know someone may experience these symptoms up to a year, months, years into sobriety, but they're not as severe as they are at the beginning.
Ever felt blindsided by unexpected symptoms long after quitting substances? Andrea Williams, LPC, CPCS, dives into the often overlooked world of post-acute withdrawal symptoms (PAWS) in this insightful episode of 'Grace Through Recovery'. PAWS can hit you or your loved ones out of nowhere, even after the initial withdrawal phase has passed. It’s like running a marathon and finding unexpected hurdles near the finish line.
Andrea explains how these symptoms can affect thinking, emotional stability, and even physical coordination, making the journey to sobriety feel more challenging than anticipated. But don't worry—she's got you covered with practical advice on managing these symptoms. Think daily movement, yoga, and other stress-busting activities that can help you regain your balance. Andrea also emphasizes the role of family support and open communication in easing these symptoms.
It's not just about the person in recovery; families can experience stress too, and understanding PAWS can help everyone navigate this rocky path together. Tune in to learn how to spot these symptoms early and what you can do to support yourself and your loved ones on this journey to recovery.