Is Ecstasy Addictive?

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Most Addictive Drugs | Harmony Treatment and Wellness Center

Is Ecstasy Addictive? – According to the National Institute on Drug Abuse, ecstasy, or MDMA, impacts many of the same neurotransmitters in the brain as other drugs, but research has not yet determined whether or not it is truly addictive.

Moreover, experiments have revealed that ecstasy does have a potential for addiction, but that its potential may be less than some other drugs, such as cocaine.

Of note, some people who use MDMA do report symptoms that may reflect addiction, including continuing to use the drug despite physical or psychological consequences, the development of tolerance, withdrawal symptoms upon cessation, and cravings.

What is MDMA or Ecstasy?

MDMA is a synthetic “designer” drug that has both stimulant and hallucinogenic properties. Use produces an energizing effect, time/perception distortions, and increased pleasure from sensory experiences. Ecstasy users have also reported feeling an increase in self-awareness and empathy.

The term “ecstasy” is often used to refer to MDMA found in a tablet or capsule form, which is the most popular method of using the drug. However, some investigations have found ecstasy tablets containing MDMA at varying concentrations, and also some batches laced with a number of other drugs, such as methamphetamine, which can be harmful.

Effects of Ecstasy

Once MDMA is consumed in tablet form, the person begins feeling the effects about 45 minutes later on average. These effects peak 15-30 minutes after they are first experienced and last around 3 hours.

People typically consume one to two tablets at a time, with each tablet containing between 50-150 milligrams of MDMA on average. People often take a second dose as the effects of the first dose begin to subside, thereby increasing the risk of adverse side effects as the doses combine.

Desired effects of MDMA may include the following:

  • Enhanced sense of well-being
  • Increased extroversion
  • Emotional warmth
  • Increased empathy toward others
  • Willingness to discuss emotionally-charged memories
  • Enhanced sensory perception

Side effects may include the following:

  • Involuntary jaw clenching
  • Lack of appetite
  • Detachment from oneself (depersonalization)
  • Illogical or disorganized thoughts
  • Restless legs
  • Nausea
  • Hot flashes or chills
  • Headache
  • Sweating
  • Muscle or joint stiffness
  • Faintness
  • Panic attacks

More severe side effects, which are rarely but potentially life-threatening, include the following:

  • Dramatically increased body temperature (hyperthermia)
  • High blood pressure (hypertension)
  • Loss of consciousness
  • Seizures

Due to its stimulant properties and the situations in which it is often used – such as dancing at clubs, raves, concerts, etc. – ecstasy can result in a significant rise in body temperature (hyperthermia). Treatment for hyperthermia requires immediate medical attention, as it can rapidly lead to muscle breakdown or an electrolyte imbalance. This condition, in turn, can cause kidney failure or a fatal swelling of the brain.

When ecstasy is used in combination with vigorous exercise, this also causes dehydration, compelling some people to drink copious amounts of liquids. However, this could actually heighten the risk of electrolyte imbalance or brain swelling because MDMA causes the body to retain water.

In the hours after using ecstasy, it can produce marked reductions in a person’s ability to perceive and predict motion, such as the ability to determine if a driver is in danger of colliding with another vehicle. This fact underscores the potential dangers of performing complex or skilled activities while under the influence of ecstasy.

Effects of Regular MDMA Use

Regular MDMA use has been associated with the following symptoms:

  • Sleep disturbances
  • Appetite loss
  • Concentration difficulties
  • Depression
  • Heart disease
  • Impulsivity

Also, heavy MDMA use over a 2-year period has been associated with a marked decrease in cognitive function.

Signs of Ecstasy Use

If someone close to you is exhibiting the following, they may be using ecstasy/MDMA or Molly:

  • High levels of stimulation
  • Unusual levels of energy
  • Long hours of wakefulness
  • Acting abnormally friendly
  • Dancing for long periods
  • Appearing overly sensitive to music or lights
  • Exaggerated pleasure from touch
  • Less sensitivity to pain
  • Nausea, chills, and sweating
  • Blurred vision and dilated pupils
  • Muscle cramps
  • Overheating

Treatment for Ecstasy Addiction

While ecstasy may not have the potential for addiction as other drugs, it can be abused, and research has shown that it can also be habit-forming. Using ecstasy is dangerous under any circumstance, but binging on the drug, especially in an environment conducive to overheating and physical exertion, is especially dangerous.

Persons who feel they are addicted to ecstasy are highly encouraged to undergo addiction treatment in the form of a comprehensive, evidence-based approach. Our center offers such programs in both inpatient and outpatient formats that include essential treatments such as psychotherapy, counseling, and group support.

We employ knowledgeable medical and mental health staff who specialize in addiction and deliver these services to our clients with care and expertise. Our goal is to ensure each client has the best chance for recovery and that we give them the tools they require to achieve abstinence and maintain long-term wellness and sobriety.

Call us today to find out how we can start you on the path to happiness and harmony!

Suboxone Abuse

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Suboxone Abuse – Suboxone is a prescription drug that includes two medications, buprenorphine and naloxone. It is approved by the Food and Drug Administration to treat addiction to opioids and opiates, such as morphine and heroin.

Buprenorphine is in a class of drugs called opioid partial agonists, which help alleviate the symptoms of opioid/opiate withdrawal. Naloxone belongs to a class of pharmaceutical drugs known as opioid antagonists, which completely reverse the effects of opioids and prevent overdose. This combination drug is typically used as part of a more comprehensive treatment program that should include therapy, counseling, lifestyle changes, and other interventions.

According to the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), there were more than 9 million prescriptions filled for buprenorphine in 2012. Most of these orders were filled by people who were struggling with addictions to other opioids such as heroin and oxycodone.

Suboxone, although intended for the treatment of addiction to other opioids, has still been a product of abuse. The Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) reported that in 2011, more than 21,400 people visited emergency departments in the U.S. for problems related to the misuse or abuse of buprenorphine.

Intended Use

Suboxone treatment usually consists of having a client follow a structured regimen while monitoring them to ensure the dose is working properly. In cases where the dose seems insufficient to ward off withdrawal symptoms, it will be increased by 2-4 mg per day until satisfactory. Once relief is achieved, the dose will remain the same until the physician and client are ready to discontinue Suboxone.

Because Suboxone is itself an opiate, the client will need to gradually reduce the dosages and slowly wean themselves off Suboxone, thus all opiates, entirely. The recommended length of Suboxone treatment is a minimum of one year, but it isn’t uncommon for clients to stay on Suboxone for even longer.

Despite buprenorphine working similarly to other illicit painkillers by occupying opioid receptors, it does not induce the same euphoria when taken as prescribed. This happens because, in contrast to buprenorphine, naloxone works by detaching any drug molecules attached to the opioid receptors, including buprenorphine.

Therefore, Suboxone, which is a mixture of buprenorphine and naloxone, is formulated with the intention of preventing its abuse – if too much Suboxone taken, the naloxone rejects the buprenorphine, precipitating an immediate withdrawal. This makes Suboxone particularly well-received in the medical community since it can be prescribed by physicians to patients for use at home, whereas methadone treatment requires all administration to be monitored to prevent abuse.

Suboxone Abuse

Considering the action of naloxone in preventing its misuse, how is it that people still find ways to get high off Suboxone or even become addicted to it? The most common forms of Suboxone abuse are taking it in higher doses than prescribed and in combination with other substances. People typically combine Suboxone with alcohol, cocaine, or benzos to enhance its effects, though this kind of polydrug use greatly increases the likelihood of harmful side effects from all drugs involved.

Signs of Suboxone abuse and addiction include the following:

  • Administering Suboxone in other ways than prescribed, such as crushing and snorting it or injecting it
  • Utilizing Suboxone to relax, sleep, or get high
  • Consuming Suboxone in larger doses than it was prescribed
  • Attempting to use Suboxone to forestall withdrawal symptoms
  • Extreme lethargy
  • Unpredictable mood swings

Many people assume that only those undergoing Suboxone treatment are susceptible to Suboxone abuse or addiction, but this is unfortunately not the case. Suboxone is now available as a street drug like other illicit opioids. The DEA claims that 10,804 buprenorphine-related drug seizures were undertaken in 2012 alone.

The SAMHSA notes that a staggering 90% of Suboxone abusers acquired the drug through illicit means. Furthermore, 17% of physicians feel that Suboxone prescribing practices are contributing to the opioid epidemic because it is given out too easily and without enough caution.

Also, many prefer Suboxone over other prescription and illicit painkillers – even heroin – because it is generally less expensive. Although the northeastern region of the United States is particularly well-known for Suboxone’s high black market availability, the illegal Suboxone trade is prevalent throughout the nation.

Treatment for Suboxone Abuse

Suboxone abuse is rarer than the abuse of more powerful opioids, but it still does occur. Those abusing Suboxone may have received it legitimately for opioid replacement therapy or illegally through prescription drug diversion. In any case, abuse of this drug can have harmful effects, and those affected should seek treatment as soon as possible.

Treatment for Suboxone abuse may require a medical detox following by long-term inpatient therapy and counseling. Our center offers an integrated, evidence-based approach to substance abuse treatment, and employs medical professionals who deliver these services with compassion.

You can reclaim your life and experience the happiness you deserve! Contact us today to find out how we can help you start on the path to long-lasting recovery!

Opioid Overdose Symptoms

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Opioid Overdose Symptoms | Harmony treatment and Wellness Center

How to Recognize Opioid Overdose Symptoms – Opioid addiction has been increasing dramatically since the early 2000s, meaning that the overdose rate in the U.S. has also been steadily rising to epidemic proportions. In order to save a loved one who is abusing heroin or prescription painkillers from permanent brain damage or death, it’s critical to be able to recognize opioid overdose symptoms.

The World Health Organization (WHO) estimates that more than 69,000 people worldwide die from opioid overdoses each year. Only through prevention, education, and treatment can we begin to curb this trend, and being able to identify an opioid overdose in progress may help prevent those addicted from becoming grim statistics.

What is an Opioid?

According to the National Institute on Drug Abuse, “opioids are a class of drugs that include the illegal drug heroin, synthetic opioids such as fentanyl, and pain relievers available legally by prescription, such as oxycodone (OxyContin®), hydrocodone (Vicodin®), codeine, morphine, and many others.”

Due to the addictive properties of these drugs, it is easy to become dependent on them, especially when a person is not using them as prescribed under medical supervision – in the case of heroin and other illicit opioids, this is never the case.

By prescription, these drugs are given to people who have suffered a severe injury, underwent surgery, or, in some cases, experience chronic pain due to cancer or an end-of-life condition.

How Do Opioids Affect the Brain?

Opioids attach to specific receptors in the brain that help block pain signals and induce feelings of relaxation. Opioids are a staple of modern medicine and are indispensable for managing acute pain or helping individuals suffering from serious conditions to feel more comfortable. Problems can arise, however, when people take too much too often or begin to use the drugs for non-medical purposes such as to experience a high.

How to Recognize Opioid Overdose Symptoms

There are several revealing signs that a person is experiencing opioid overdose symptoms, including the following:

  • Slowed, labored, or stopped breathing
  • Bluish tint around fingernails or lips (cyanosis)
  • Pinpoint pupils
  • Vomiting
  • Inability to be roused from sleep/unresponsiveness
  • Slow or irregular heartbeat
  • Cold, clammy skin
  • Unusual paleness
  • Extreme moodiness
  • Confusion or drunken behavior

If you encounter a person experiencing these symptoms, contact emergency medical services immediately because the person’s life is in imminent danger. An opioid overdose can quickly result in death, so every second counts.

How to Help Someone Who is Having an Overdose

Although you should immediately call 911 if you identify that someone is having an overdose, there are steps you can take to help the person until emergency personnel arrives.

If the person is unconscious and cannot be roused, roll him or her to one side – this prevents the person from inhaling and asphyxiating on their own vomit while unconscious. If the person is still conscious, attempt to keep the person responsive and don’t let him or her fall asleep. Because these drugs impede breathing functions, allowing a person in the throes of an overdose to fall asleep can lead to life-threatening central nervous system and respiratory depression.

Never leave the person unattended if at all possible – a conscious person suffering an overdose will be incoherent and may put themselves in danger, and an unconscious person may stop breathing entirely. If you leave them alone, you won’t be able to administer rescue breathing if needed.

There is a medication that reverses an opioid overdose known as naloxone, which has been used for years by first responders and in emergency departments. Due to the frequency of overdoses in the U.S., this drug has become available over-the-counter without a prescription in most major pharmacy chains.

Naloxone is found in the form of a nasal spray or an injectable liquid and can offer the person suffering an hour’s reprieve from opioid overdose symptoms. This action does not halt the overdose permanently, so regardless, it is critical to contact emergency responders who can administer additional lifesaving medical treatment to the person.

In the aftermath of an overdose survivor, the person will likely benefit from opioid addiction treatment to help prevent further use of heroin or other opioids.

Treatment for Opioid Addiction

Opioid addiction is a destructive disease that adversely affects the health and mental well-being of those suffering, and profoundly impacts the people who love them. Fortunately, opioid addiction is treatable, with long-term, comprehensive approaches being the most effective according to clinical studies.

Our center offers evidence-based treatment that includes services critical to recovery, such as behavioral therapy, counseling, education, and group support. These services are delivered by caring staff who specialize in addiction and provide clients with the tools they need to remain sober and enjoy long-lasting recovery and wellness.

Let us help you regain your life and experience the harmony and happiness you deserve – contact us now to find out how we can help!

IBS and Alcohol

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ibs and alcohol | Harmony Treatment and Wellness

IBS and Alcohol – Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) is an intestinal condition that that does not appear to cause actual physical damage to the intestines. Instead, IBS is characterized by persistent discomfort, pain in the abdomen, regular episodes of diarrhea or constipation, and a number of problems concerning the types of foods that a person can comfortably consume or activities in which they can participate.

This condition tends to come and go in some people, and when it’s at its peak, it can result in notable functional impairment. It is estimated that the prevalence of IBS ranges from 7-21%.

According to a study (2004) in Clinical Epidemiology, IBS occurs more often in women than men and across all age groups. It appears more in industrialized countries and twice as frequently among those with a family history of the condition.

IBS and Alcohol – Etiology of IBS

The exact cause of IBS remains unknown, though there are several factors that appear to play a role in its development, such as the following:

  • Presence of an overly sensitive large intestine
  • Stress
  • Psychological disorders
  • Bacterial infections
  • Celiac disease
  • Food Allergies
  • Excessive levels of serotonin in the gastrointestinal system
  • Overuse of antibiotics

Although IBS is often diagnosed using specific criteria, there is no formal consensus on exactly how IBS should be defined and what the hallmark symptoms of the disorder are. The symptom profile, however, includes a few ambiguous and subjective symptoms that cannot be identified objectively, such as the following:

  • Pain and bloating in the abdomen
  • Cramps, especially during bowel movements
  • Urgency when having to use restroom
  • Undue strain when passing stools
  • Repeated belching
  • Diarrhea or constipation
  • Fatigue and lethargy
  • Psychological symptoms such as depression, a lack of motivation, and apathy

Imaging studies of most IBS patients often do not appear to present any significant pathology. Also, symptoms experienced by many patients also tend to wax and wane over time, making it even more difficult to determine the cause(s) of the disorder.

Alcohol Use Disorder

Although the term “alcoholism” is still regularly used, it currently has little or no diagnostic purpose. The contemporary diagnostic term for people who have a substance use disorder related to alcohol use is “alcohol use disorder.” This term is characterized by the dysfunctional use of alcohol that could more specifically be defined as either alcohol abuse, alcohol dependence, or alcohol addiction.

An alcohol use disorder (AUD) is a mental health condition that occurs when a person’s consumption of alcohol results in a marked impairment or distress in life, provided that they also meet the diagnostic criteria for several specific behavioral symptoms.

Moreover, the former concepts of alcohol abuse, alcohol dependence, alcohol addiction, and alcoholism occur as a spectrum of disorders as opposed to being mutually exclusive categories. The diagnostic category of an AUD aims to take into account this modern understanding of the existence of varying degrees of alcohol use, abuse, and dependence.

IBS and Alcohol Use Disorders

A few studies have examined the association between IBS and alcohol use disorders. A study published in the American Journal of Drug and Alcohol Abuse (1998) compared 31 patients soliciting treatment for alcohol abuse with 40 others seeking treatment for other medical conditions. A total of 13 people seeking treatment for alcohol abuse also met the criteria for IBS, whereas only one of the 40 patients seeking treatment for other ailments met the criteria for irritable bowel syndrome.

Investigators concluded that people who abuse alcohol might have higher rates of IBS. However, the study could not determine a specific cause, and the question remained: Does the discomfort of IBS compel people to drink more or is a person who drinks alcohol at an excessive level more likely to experience IBS?

Additional research has suggested that there is indeed a relationship between the symptoms of IBS and alcohol use. For example, a 2013 study examined the drinking patterns and their effects on IBS-affected women and a control group. The researchers found that the most substantial relationship between IBS symptoms in patients and alcohol use occurred after binge drinking episodes.

This research does not appear to support the idea that people who have IBS are more likely to develop alcohol use disorders, but rather, that a current alcohol use disorder is a risk factor for developing IBS. These findings are in line with what is known about moderate to heavy alcohol use, in that it can be an irritant to the gut and lead to gastrointestinal issues such as nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea.

In fact, depending on a person’s level of sensitivity, even one alcoholic drink can be enough to trigger an episode of IBS, and some alcoholic beverages may be more likely to cause symptoms than others.

Moreover, it logically follows that people who already suffer from these symptoms would be more likely to abstain from drinking alcohol to cope with other issues related to stress and depression due to the gastrointestinal condition.

Thus, the general conclusion reached by researchers has been that individuals who already experience symptoms of IBS typically do not begin using alcohol to excessive levels.

Treatment for IBS and Alcohol Use Disorders

There is no known cure for IBS, and treatment often entails the management of symptoms using methods such as the following:

  • Limiting or avoiding alcohol consumption
  • Limiting or avoiding caffeine intake
  • Avoiding junk food, including carbonated drinks
  • Antidepressant medications, such as SSRIs (selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors)
  • Increasing intake of fiber
  • Eating small to moderate meals at frequent intervals
  • Using laxatives for constipation
  • Eating certain foods and taking probiotics and certain medicines to manage symptoms
  • Using behavioral methods to identify which foods worsen IBS
  • Engaging in stress management techniques, such as psychotherapy

Help for Alcohol Abuse

Treatment for alcohol use disorder should begin with a medical detox to supervise people undergoing withdrawals and manage the associated symptoms.

Following a medical detox, patients are strongly encouraged to participate in a formal treatment program for alcohol use disorder that includes behavioral therapy, support group attendance, and other forms of treatment as needed (e.g., family therapy and counseling.)

Individuals often find that their success in addiction treatment is related to the length of time they remain involved a program – in other words, the longer individuals stay active in formal treatment, the better their chances of being successful in recovery.

The program should also include the treatment of co-occurring conditions, such as IBS, depression, anxiety, etc.
People who begin to experience symptoms of IBS and already have a problem with alcohol use should engage in treatment that addresses both of these issues simultaneously.

Attempting to treat IBS without addressing a co-occurring alcohol abuse issue would likely not be a practical approach and wouldn’t significantly alleviate one’s gastrointestinal problems.

Our center offers comprehensive, integrated treatment designed to help patients acquire the tools they need to achieve abstinence and sustain long-term sobriety. We employ professional, certified medical staff and personnel who specialize in addiction and deliver services to patients with care and compassion.

If you or someone you love suffers from an alcohol use disorder, please contact us immediately. You CAN regain the life and wellness that you deserve – find out how we can help!

Anxiety Medication

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Anxiety Medication | Harmony Treatment and Wellness

Anxiety medication, otherwise known as benzodiazepines or benzos, are classified as Schedule IV controlled substances, and frequently prescribed and sold under the brand names Xanax, Valium, Klonopin, and Ativan. While these drugs are most commonly used to treat anxiety and panic disorder, they are sometimes used as sedatives or to treat seizures.

Benzodiazepines work by interacting with gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) neurotransmitters in the brain that suppress the activity of other nerves. Since many experts conclude that excessive nerve activity is what produces anxiety and other psychological disorders, they also believe that GABA helps to manage anxiety.

While benzos work well as anxiety medication, they also have a high potential for addiction due to their effects on the brain’s reward system. Long-term use can result in both tolerance and dependence. Tolerance occurs because of the brain’s propensity to diminish the impact of some psychoactive substances after repeated exposure. Dependence occurs when the brain has become accustomed to the presence of a substance and can no longer function normally without it.

Facts About Anxiety Medication Addiction

Benzos are Highly Addictive

The use of a benzodiazepine causes a surge in dopamine levels, flooding the brain with this neurotransmitter that is related to feelings of well-being and reward. This rush of pleasure is gratifying and, to some, can prove overpowering.

Researchers have discovered that the addictive potential of benzos is similar to that of opioids, which are also drugs with powerful addictive properties. The chemical actions of these drugs produce feelings that some users wish to sustain, and the progression from use to misuse/abuse to addiction can occur rapidly.

Tolerance can develop after just a few months of use, although it is possible to become physically dependent on benzos much sooner, and it’s estimated that at least 44% of users eventually become dependent.

Quitting Benzo Use is Quite Challenging

Once the body has become dependent on anxiety medication, attempts to quit without a doctor’s help will result in severe withdrawal symptoms, such as the following:

  • Sweating.
  • Nausea.
  • Headache.
  • Muscular pain and stiffness
  • Difficulty concentrating.
  • Sleep disturbance.
  • Irritability.
  • Increased tension and anxiety.
  • Panic attacks.
  • Heart palpitations.

For persons on high doses of benzos, withdrawal can lead to seizures and psychosis. However, those determined to quit should follow a tapering schedule recommended by a physician.

Using Can Result in Cognitive Impairment

As increasing numbers have been prescribed benzos long-term, doctors noticed a worrying trend – cognitive impairment. Specifically, patients forgot how to perform tasks and information they previously knew and should easily recall.

So scientists examined the connection between these impairments and benzo use and found a consistent link between doses of the anxiety medication and cognitive deficiencies. Also, it was found that study participants who were both older and younger than age 60 suffer the same impairments as a result of benzo use, thus throwing doubt on the alternative explanation that the deficiencies were a result of the natural aging process in the older demographic.

Risk of Alzheimer’s Disease is Increased

Anxiety Medication | Harmony Treatment and Wellness

In recent years, the number of benzos prescribed for long-term use increased by 31.4%, and, disturbingly, so did diagnoses of Alzheimer’s disease in those patients. One study investigated the long-term use of benzos of five or more years and found a significant relationship between how long a person took benzos and their risk of developing Alzheimer’s disease.

Indeed, for elderly patients who took benzos for longer than six months, their risk of Alzheimer’s was 84% higher. The researchers conducting the study suggested that long-term use of benzos, especially by the elderly, should be considered a legitimate public health concern.

Early Death is a Serious Possibility

When an individual considers undergoing a prescription benzo regimen, they must weigh many risks, such as addiction, dependence and withdrawal, cognitive impairment, and an elevated risk of Alzheimer’s. However, many often fail to recognize the fact that benzo use could kill them. When comparing all prescription medications, benzos are consistently associated with the highest number of early deaths.

Although this may sound like an overblown, fear-mongering statement, this fact is backed up by extensive clinical research. One such study examined the medical records of over 100,000 individuals, finding that benzo use was linked to a doubled increase in the risk of early death, by whatever means.

Treatment for Addiction to Anxiety Medication

Anxiety medications are drugs that can be helpful to those with anxiety and panic disorder but are also highly addictive. Those who wish to stop using benzos should undergo a tapering schedule devised by a physician who will slowly wean them off the drug over the course of weeks or months.

Following detox, patients are encouraged to participate in long-term addiction treatment, which includes behavioral therapy, counseling, and group support.

You can reclaim your life and the happiness you deserve, free from the use of drugs and alcohol!

What is a Drug and Alcohol Assessment?

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Alcohol Assessment | Harmony Treatment and Wellness Center

Substance abuse and addiction often wreak havoc on a person’s life – it can impact them profoundly on many levels, and cause long-lasting damage to the mind, body, and relationships. When drug or alcohol use has spiraled out of control, they may participate in activities that jeopardize the well-being of themselves or that of others.

A drug and alcohol assessment is a tool used by medical and addiction professionals to ascertain the extent of a person’s abuse of substances and determine how to treat them most effectively and achieve the best outcome.

Whether a client’s motivation to undergo a drug and alcohol assessment is due to legal consequences (arrest/conviction of a crime), prompting from concerned family members or friends, or a personal desire to confront substance abuse, seeking an evaluation of this kind can be a catalyst and essential resource on the road to recovery.

Purposes of a Drug and Alcohol Assessment

  • To determine if the individual suffers from drug or alcohol addiction
  • To ascertain the extent of substance use or addiction
  • To identify co-occurring mental health conditions such as depression or anxiety, if any, or polydrug use
  • To determine the extent to which drug or alcohol use impacts a person’s life
  • To present an understanding of the person and their unique circumstances so that the team may set a baseline and design a treatment plan that is best suited for his or her wants and needs

More About the Drug and Alcohol Assessment Process

A substance abuse assessment is an essential first step in determining a person’s needs regarding drug or alcohol abuse treatment. An evaluation consists of gathering biological, social, psychological and historical information that is obtained through interviews and diagnostic screening materials. An investigation of these results should reveal a sharp picture of the person’s substance abuse and dependence.

This information is critical to professionals in making the appropriate professional recommendations, whether it consists of residential or outpatient substance abuse/addiction treatment, therapy or other approaches.

Court-Ordered Substance Abuse Assessment

If a criminal case involves drugs or alcohol, the presiding judge may order a drug and alcohol assessment to be administered by a certified agency. These are examples of circumstances/criminal charges in which a judge might order an evaluation:

  • Driving under the influence (DUI) or Driving while intoxicated (DWI)
  • Drug or alcohol possession (e.g., open intoxicant or minor in possession)
  • Drug trafficking or unlawful distribution
  • Manufacturing or distributing controlled substances
  • Disorderly conduct
  • Public intoxication
  • Using fake identification

During an assessment, which may take up to two hours, clients interview with a licensed professional who is trained and specializes in substance abuse/addiction treatment. He or she will perform a thorough review of a person’s substance abuse, medical/mental health, and social/family history.

This assessment is essential because it can identify if a chronic condition such as addiction is present, or if there is not enough evidence to support that there is an ongoing problem. Regardless, a person may still have to participate in various programs or obligations as deemed necessary by the legal system.

Depending on the incident and sentencing in addition to the recommendations of the evaluating professional, a person may be required to go to one or more of the following:

  • DUI Alcohol or Drug Use Risk Reduction Program (RRP)
  • Random drug and/or alcohol urinalysis
  • 12 step meetings such as Alcoholics Anonymous
  • Drug or alcohol abuse education classes and counseling sessions
  • Drug or alcohol abuse treatment programs

A Drug and Alcohol Assessment Is a Tool Meant to Foster Success

Alcohol Assessment | Harmony Treatment and Wellness Center

Although a person might feel embarrassed or ashamed and disinclined to be forthcoming about drug or alcohol use behaviors, he should acknowledge that this assessment is being performed for his own benefit. Moreover, an addiction professional cannot accurately develop a plan without knowing precisely where a client stands within a substance abuse or addiction problem.

Indeed, this is the time for a person to be honest about the extent of her substance abuse, as well as any other factors that may influence her drug or alcohol addiction or recovery options. By hiding habits or information, a person is only harming herself and hindering the chance for a full recovery.

Schedule A Drug and Alcohol Evaluation Today

Our center provides clients with comprehensive substance abuse assessment and treatment services. Whether for the purpose of meeting a probation requirement, driver’s license reinstatement, a court appearance, or personal issues, we can help. We use a variety of evidence-based alcohol and drug addiction assessment instruments, and these unbiased, objective tools are administered and analyzed by licensed clinicians.

Recognizing there is a problem is the first step in working toward a resolution, and this is especially true regarding substance abuse and addiction. An assessment is often an eye-opening experience for both clients and their loved ones, as it offers a compelling and undeniable case for the pursuance of sobriety.

Xanax Abuse and Addiction

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Xanax Abuse | Harmony Treatment and Wellness

Xanax Abuse – Xanax belongs to a class of drugs known as benzodiazepines, which are often used to mitigate the symptoms of anxiety. These drugs are designed for short-term use and when used long-term have a high potential for abuse and addiction. Benzos are relatively short-acting medications that have a rapid onset and quickly reduce anxiety. Effects typically begin within a half hour of use and can provide relief for several hours after.

Benzodiazepines produce a relaxing effect by attaching to certain sites on GABA receptors in the brain. After a prolonged period of use, Xanax can cause changes to these receptors in the brain, making them less sensitive to stimulation. Eventually, an individual develops a tolerance to these drugs and requires him or her to take increasing dosages to produce the desired effect.

For people who have become chemically dependent, a decrease in consumption will likely lead to withdrawal effects. It can be quite challenging to regain control over prescription drug use without professional treatment.

Moreover, ue to the life-threatening symptoms related to withdrawal from these types of drugs, it is critical that individuals do not attempt to quit Xanax abruptly without appropriate medical supervision.

Causes & Risk Factors of Xanax Abuse and Addiction

Oftentimes, substance abuse addiction specialists are not able to identify an exact cause – there are numerous factors that can play a role in the development of addiction. However, some well-known contributors include genetics, individual characteristics, and environment.

Genetic Risk Factors

Much evidence has shown that addiction problems can run in families through traits that are genetically passed down through the generations. Moreover, people who have close relatives that have a substance abuse problem are twice as likely to incur a substance abuse problem themselves. While genetics certainly do not guarantee the development of an addiction problem, there is a definite association.

Brain Chemistry

Xanax works by affecting the brain’s reward system, creating feelings of euphoria and relaxation. Some people lack sufficient levels of chemicals in the brain to properly stimulate the reward system – one theory is that when people use Xanax or Ativan it helps make up for the lack of natural brain chemicals. People may then continue to use these substances to continue experiencing feelings of relaxation and pleasure, which can eventually result in addiction.

Environmental Risk Factors

Many people who grow up in unstable home environments or experience extreme life stressors may have come to rely on drugs such as Xanax to help cope with emotional pain. Also, some people are raised in an environment where substance abuse is viewed as acceptable behavior.

Psychological Risk Factors

Individuals who have developed addiction problems are also at high risk of having a co-occurring mental health disorder. People with undiagnosed psychiatric illnesses may not understand symptoms that they are experiencing and may be unsure how to deal with them.

In an attempt to self-medicate, people may begin to use Xanax as a way to manage symptoms. Over time, some individuals may start to rely on such substances to function on a daily basis.

Signs and Symptoms of Xanax Abuse and Addiction

Common symptoms exhibited/experienced by those who are abusing or are addicted to Xanax may include the following:

Mood Symptoms

Xanax Abuse | Harmony Treatment and Wellness

Mood symptoms associated with Xanax abuse may include anxiety, notable mood swings such as those alternating between depression and mania, agitation, rage, and restlessness.

Behavioral Symptoms

  • “Doctor-shopping,” or visiting multiple doctors to obtain more Xanax
  • Stealing or borrowing someone else’s Xanax
  • Decreased inhibitions and engaging in risky behaviors
  • Exhibiting hostility and violence
  • Neglecting family or personal responsibilities
  • Declining occupational or school performance
  • Taking higher doses or more tablets than what was prescribed
  • Chewing pills to make them work faster or crushing/snorting pills to enhance effects

Physical Symptoms

  • Swelling in hands and feet
  • Coordination difficulties
  • Dry mouth, stuffy nose
  • Decreased urination, constipation or diarrhea
  • Blurred or double vision
  • Slurred speech
  • Drowsiness, dizziness
  • Heart palpitations, tachycardia
  • Tremors or seizures

Psychological Symptoms

Psychological symptoms may include confusion, disorientation, difficult concentrating, hallucinating, and memory problems.

Effects of Xanax Abuse

Xanax abuse can produce many adverse effects. The intensity of effects experienced depends upon the duration of abuse, the amount of the substance regularly used, and individual character traits of the abuser.

These effects may include:

  • Short-term memory loss
  • Social isolation and relationship conflicts such as divorce
  • Legal or financial problems, incarceration
  • Inability to function at work or school
  • Hospitalization
  • Migraines
  • Muscle pain
  • Nausea and vomiting
  • Uncontrollable muscle twitches or seizures
  • Suicidal thoughts

Many people who have substance abuse problems also experience a co-occurring mental health condition. These may include, but are not limited to the following:

  • Additional substance addiction (drugs or alcohol)
  • Borderline personality disorder, or other personality disorder such as antisocial personality or histrionic personality disorder
  • Depressive disorders
  • Anxiety disorders such as social anxiety
  • Bipolar disorder
  • Post-traumatic stress disorder
  • Schizophrenia

Effects & Symptoms of Withdrawal from Xanax

Withdrawal from a Xanax dependency can be dangerous should only be done under the direction of a qualified medical professional in a safe environment. The detox process will slowly decrease the amount of Xanax in the body to minimize the chance of life-threatening withdrawal symptoms.

Symptoms of withdrawal from Xanax may include:

  • Blurred vision
  • Sleep disturbances, insomnia
  • Intense sweating
  • Nervous feelings and anxiety or depression
  • Aggressive behaviors
  • Weight loss
  • Tingling sensation in hands and feet
  • Seizures
  • Suicidal thoughts or death resulting from suicide or health
  • complications

Overdose

A life-threatening overdose of Xanax is unlikely when taken as directed or used alone, without the presence of drugs or alcohol. However, benzodiazepines such as Xanax are currently estimated to be involved in at least 30% of overdose deaths in the United States. In the majority of cases, other drugs such as opioids or alcohol were also involved.

The following are signs of an overdose, and immediate medical attention may be required to save a life:

  • Extreme drowsiness
  • Confusion – saying things that don’t seem to make sense
  • Dizziness even when not moving around
  • Blurred vision and difficulty focusing
  • Weakness
  • Slurred speech -they have become difficult to understand
  • Difficulty breathing – breathing is slow, shallow, labored, or stopped entirely

Treatment for Xanax Abuse

Xanax abuse can result in many adverse mental and physical effects as well as impaired functioning in many vital aspects of life, such as academics, career, and family. Treatment for Xanax abuse may begin with a gradual tapering of the drug over the course of weeks or months to reduce the severity of withdrawal symptoms.

Long-term rehab, therapy, and counseling should co-occur with the tapering medication schedule or should closely follow it. Our center offers comprehensive, evidence-based approaches that have been shown to treat Xanax abuse and addiction effectively. We offer both inpatient and outpatient treatment formats, each of which includes psychotherapy, family counseling, and group support.

Our medical staff and mental health professionals aim to provide the very best care for our clients and ultimately, provide them with the tools they need to achieve sobriety and sustain well, happy lives long-term treatment has been completed.

If you or your loved one is abusing Xanax, other drugs, or alcohol, please contact us as soon as possible. You CAN regain your life with our help!

Vicodin and Alcohol: A Dangerous Combination

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A Man with Vicodin and Alcohol

Vicodin is a prescription painkiller that contains the opioid hydrocodone and acetaminophen (Tylenol.) It is a psychoactive drug that when used in combination with alcohol or other intoxicating substances, can result in side effects of the prescription drug compounded with the individual effects of each substance.

You should always ask your physician about potential adverse reactions to any prescription medication, especially if you plan to use it in conjunction with other drugs or alcohol – an action that is not generally not advised by any medical professional.

Moreover, using Vicodin alone certainly does not come without its risks, but these risks are significantly increased when used along with other psychoactive substances.

What is Vicodin?

The active ingredients hydrocodone and Tylenol in Vicodin collaborate to relieve moderate to severe pain and reduce fever. Hydrocodone blocks nerve cells in the brain that create the sensation of pain. Acetaminophen boosts a person’s tolerance to pain, so injuries don’t feel as intense.

Side Effects of Vicodin and Alcohol

Both alcohol and Vicodin are central nervous system depressants and can have adverse side effects when used together. Both also have a high potential for addiction, so if you have a personal or family history of a substance use disorder, it is best to avoid them.

Side effects of using Vicodin and alcohol may include:

  • Breathing problems
  • Dizziness and drowsiness
  • Slurred speech
  • Memory loss and confusion
  • Loss of consciousness
  • Loss of coordination and motor function
  • Constipation or difficulty urinating
  • Heart palpitations
  • Liver damage

Dangers of Mixing Vicodin and Alcohol

Vicodin and alcohol are both potentially dangerous substances that carry individual risks. These hazards are compounded when the substances are used in combination. Both alcohol and acetaminophen have the potential to cause liver damage, so mixing the two is especially dangerous.

There is also an increased risk long-term of stroke, cardiac arrest, various forms of cancer and more. Some reactions may be fatal – like heaving alcohol use, hydrocodone can decrease breathing, and the elderly or people with serious lung issues are particularly vulnerable.

Vicodin and Alcohol Addiction

If your doctor prescribed Vicodin, he or she will monitor you to make sure you aren’t misusing it and will alter your dosage or prescribe a different medication if necessary. You should be able to identify the signs and symptoms of Vicodin addiction before you become addicted, however.

You may have developed an addiction problem if you exhibit any of the following symptoms:

You increase your dosage of Vicodin yourself instead of consulting your physician. Over time, the body can develop a tolerance to Vicodin, so after a while, it might not be as effective. If this occurs, you should contact your doctor immediately, rather than simply increase your dosage without advice. This is dangerous because your body will continue to need an increasing amount of Vicodin to get the same effect – a reaction that could potentially lead to an overdose if you stay on that path.

You start to associate Vicodin use with a lack of pain or pleasurable feelings. Vicodin is usually prescribed to numb pain after an injury or surgery. It’s indicated for the treatment of acute (short-term) pain, but some people become addicted to the way it makes them feel. Moreover, if you feel you need to take Vicodin whenever you feel pain or that you can’t experience pleasure without it, you may be developing an addiction to Vicodin.

You continue using Vicodin after your doctor has discontinued your prescription. Your physician may decide to take you off Vicodin because your injury is healed or because he or she is concerned that you’ve become addicted. If you save your pills then take them after your doctor advises you to quit, purchase more on the black market, or doctor-shop to obtain more drugs, you may be addicted.

Vicodin and Alcohol | Harmony Treatment and Wellness

You can’t resist drinking alcohol while taking Vicodin. Combining alcohol and Vicodin is dangerous and potentially deadly. Alcohol is a depressant, so it depresses the central nervous system. Taking a depressant along with Vicodin, which also suppresses your system, can cause your heart and lungs to stop functioning. Also, alcohol impairs your judgment so it’s easier to overdose on Vicodin while intoxicated.

Treatment for Vicodin and Alcohol

If you or someone you love is battling an addiction to Vicodin, alcohol or both, we can help. Harmony Treatment and Wellness Centers specializes in caring for patients who are experiencing substance use disorders as well as co-existing psychiatric disorders such as anxiety and depression.

Treatment for alcohol and drugs such as Vicodin typically starts with a medical detox, a clinical process that in which the body rids itself of toxic substances. After this stage, clients are encouraged to move into inpatient, partial hospitalization, or outpatient programs, where they obtain the knowledge, confidence, and skills they need to live a life free from drugs and alcohol.

You can regain your life and enjoy long-lasting sobriety and wellness. Please don’t wait another day. We can help – start now!

What Is Crack Cocaine?

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Crack is a stimulant drug that is the freebase form of cocaine – meaning that it can be inhaled or smoked. It presents as irregular white chunks of various sizes. Although the drug itself doesn’t have a distinct smell, the method it’s used typically produces a burning or smokey odor.

Crack’s popularity is largely due to its appeal for drug users seeking an inexpensive, powerful, fast-acting high. The term “crack” comes from the sound that is produced by the burning rock-shaped chunks.

Other names for the substance include:

  • Rocks
  • Nuggets
  • Jelly beans
  • Gravel
  • Dice
  • Candy or Cookies
  • Base

As a potent stimulant, crack use can invoke a rapid, euphoric high. It increases the speed of various mental and physical processes, serving to boost energy and give the user a sense of control. As a smoked form of cocaine, crack use results in nearly instantaneous effects because the drug is breathed into the lungs where it is then rapidly absorbed into the bloodstream.

The effects peak quickly and subside after less than 20 minutes. Because the high is so brief, users often abuse in a binge and crash cycle that heightens the risk of dependence, tolerance, and addiction.

Why Do People Abuse Crack?

Those who abuse crack do so to achieve the following effects:

  • An intense feeling of euphoria
  • Inflated sense of self and increased self-importance
  • Increased alertness and hyperactivity/stimulation
  • Decreased appetite

As with other intoxicating substances, with regular use, the desired effects are quickly taken over by adverse symptoms.

What Is Crack Cocaine? Signs and Symptoms

Crack is a very dangerous and potentially life-threatening drug.

It’s unlikely that a person can use crack cocaine recreationally for any significant length of time, due to its addictive nature. Moreover, any use of crack should be taken seriously.

Crack is addictive due to the intense euphoric rush it produces but fades quickly, leaving the user wanting more. When the high subsides, the user feels a strong desire to smoke more crack because he or she enters withdrawal and becomes agitated, restless, paranoid, or anxious.

Physical signs of crack use include:

  • Dilated pupils
  • Reduced sleep or insomnia
  • Increased heart rate
  • Hypertension (high blood pressure)
  • Suppressed appetite and weight loss
  • Muscle twitching
  • Nosebleeds

Psychological signs may manifest that indicate a person is abusing crack cocaine. These signs may include the following:

  • Aggression and mood swings.
  • Psychotic symptoms, including hallucinations and paranoia.
  • Persistent thoughts about obtaining and using crack/strong cravings.
  • Inability to stop using despite a desire to do so.
  • Smoking crack at the expense of finances, relationships, and other important aspects of life.

Tolerance and Withdrawal

Someone who regularly engages in crack use can quickly build a tolerance to the drug. Tolerance occurs when the body grows accustomed to the presence of crack the system and requires an increasing amount to achieve the same effect. If a person is not satisfied with a small amount of crack and feels a need for larger and larger amounts, he or she has developed a tolerance.

Once tolerance has manifested, addiction may follow soon after, and the person may begin to engage in risky, dangerous, or problematic behaviors in order to obtain and use the substance. In the throes of an addiction, the person will likely become much less rational and logical.

The occurrence of withdrawal symptoms is another sign of crack use. As tolerance develops, a physical or chemical dependence may also develop, meaning the brain comes to heavily rely on the drug and adapted to its presence.

Without it, the person may suffer from withdrawal symptoms such as the following:

  • Depression.
  • Increased anxiety.
  • Irritability and agitation.
  • Strong cravings for more crack.

Risks of Crack Abuse

Those who abuse crack often put themselves and others in harm’s way due to dangerous and compulsive drug seeking behaviors. Crack abusers may engage in the following:

Risky Sexual Behaviors

Crack use increases sexual desire and reduces inhibitions. Those high on crack could be more likely to engage in sex with multiple partners and to have unprotected sex. In addition, some may exchange sex for the drug.

Violent Tendencies

Crack cocaine use intensifies emotions, including agitation and anger. People who are high on crack may be more violent toward others or may harm themselves intentionally or accidentally.

Engaging in Risky Behavior to Obtain and Use Crack

Crack users often enter unsafe areas or agree to do risky things to obtain the drug. Crack addiction can be a very powerful motivator, and many individuals entrapped by it are willing to do nearly anything in exchange for some more of the substance.

Neglect of Responsibilities

People in active crack addiction often prioritize drug use over responsibilities such as paying bills, attending work or school, maintaining relationships with family members, or even caring for children.

Law Breaking

Many addicted to crack steal to help support their habit. They also may commit robberies or participate in other illegal activity to obtain the money needed to buy crack. Crack possession itself is also illegal, so some face legal trouble for possessing it even if they don’t engage in these behaviors.

Effects of Crack Abuse

In both the short- and long-term, crack use can result in a number of side effects that can substantially compromise one’s health.

Short-term risks of crack use include:

  • Cardiovascular risks including increased heart rate, blood pressure, and body temperature.
  • Higher breathing rates.
  • Nausea.
  • Odd or bizarre behaviors, delusional behavior or paranoia.
  • Anxiety and panic.

The above adverse effects can occur after only one use at a high dose.

Crack’s Long-Term Effects

Long-term effects can occur after a prolonged period of consistent abuse. These include:

  • Chronic cardiovascular issues that may include heart disease, cardiac arrest, and stroke.
  • Malnutrition due in part to significant weight loss.
  • Marked cognitive decline.
  • Confusion and delirium.
  • Psychosis and hallucinations.
  • Damage to the lips, mouth, and teeth.
  • Major depression, anxiety, and irritability.
  • Seizures.

Treatment For Crack Cocaine

Treatment for crack abuse often begins with a detox – a supervised, controlled withdrawal usually performed at a detox center. Medical staff monitor patients for severe physical symptoms of withdrawal and help manage intense psychological effects such as mood swings, agitation, anxiety, and depression during this period.

After detox is complete, many patients transition to a rehab center such as Harmony Treatment and Wellness for residential or partial hospitalization programs. Treatment then largely focuses on the psychological aspects of addiction, and patients receive individual and group therapy and may attend ongoing support groups.

An inpatient or residential rehab stay is often followed by outpatient treatment and a period of ongoing aftercare, in which patients begin to return to their daily lives but also continue to visit the center regularly to undergo continuing therapy and other needed treatment. Some patients transition back to their regular lives while they reside in a halfway house or sober living facility.

We ensure our patients receive the support that they need through the entire recovery process to achieve long-lasting sobriety, and therefore, provides aftercare planning services that serve to find local resources for former patients after treatment has been completed.

You can regain the life you deserve, full of happiness and wellness – and we can help!

Post-Acute Withdrawal Syndrome (PAWS)

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Post-Acute Withdrawal | Harmony Treatment and Wellness

Withdrawal syndrome is characterized by the effects that occur when a person dependent on drugs or alcohol abruptly discontinues using that substance. Both illegal and prescription drugs can cause withdrawal symptoms, and they may last anywhere from a few days to a couple of weeks.

Physicians typically work with their patients to moderate withdrawal symptoms – however, persons who are suffering from addiction or substance abuse are likely to experience withdrawal symptoms if they attempt to stop using the drug “cold turkey” or if they somehow become unable to obtain their drug of choice.

About Post-Acute Withdrawal Syndrome (PAWS)

While withdrawal symptoms are unpleasant, most usually abate by about two weeks, especially when medical staff oversees the detox process. However, some substance abuse can result in prolonged withdrawal effects that last for months. People who use a large amount of a psychoactive substance for an extended period are more likely to experience this condition, also known as post-acute withdrawal syndrome (PAWS).

 

This term describes a group of ongoing withdrawal effects, which are mostly psychological, emotional, and mood-related, that can continue long after acute (short-term) withdrawal symptoms have subsided. Although post-acute withdrawal seldom includes the aches and pains, nausea, headaches, or other physical symptoms, it can be just as severe as short-term withdrawal. PAWS may place a person at a heightened risk of relapse as they may return to substance use in an attempt to alleviate the discomfort.

People who experience PAWS can feel like they are suffering from a “rollercoaster” of symptoms that come and go without warning. Each episode of PAWS can last for several days and can continue to reoccur cyclically for up to one year.

These symptoms can develop following the extended use of any intoxicant, although PAWS most often occurs among those discontinuing the following substances:

Alcohol

PAWS symptoms were first defined for alcohol use disorder in the 1990s. Abruptly stopping alcohol use can be dangerous and even life-threatening, because it can cause a serious condition known as delirium tremens (which includes seizures and psychosis). It can also increase the likelihood of PAWS (e.g., chronic cravings, exhaustion, and general malaise).

Antidepressants

While very few people use these medications recreationally since they do not cause an intense or rapid high, stopping them suddenly can substantially change the levels of serotonin and other neurotransmitters in the brain. Since people who suffer from depression are the ones who are usually prescribed antidepressants, an acute withdrawal can feel like intense depression that unfortunately, could continue for several months.

Antipsychotics

These drugs attach to dopamine receptors to reduce hallucinations, delirium, and other psychiatric symptoms. When they are discontinued, particularly without a tapering schedule, the person could experience withdrawal symptoms including wide mood swings for months.

Benzodiazepines

These medications benefit many people with anxiety and panic disorders, but they also have a high potential for dependence and abuse. Most prescriptions for these drugs do not offer coverage for more than two weeks of regular use because they can cause addiction.

Withdrawal symptoms tend to mimic anxiety and panic disorders, making it much more difficult to stop using them. PAWS symptoms, such as insomnia, fatigue, and intense cravings can last for months after the physical dependence has subsided.

Marijuana

Many people come to rely on marijuana to relax and feel normal – so if a person stops using it, he or she can feel stressed, depressed, and anxious. One of the most common withdrawal symptoms with marijuana cessation is insomnia, and without medical assistance, could persist long-term and develop into PAWS.

Opioids

Whether via prescription or illicitly such as heroin, the use of opioids can result in PAWS if they are not weaned off appropriately. Moreover, individuals who experience the full intensity of acute withdrawal are more likely to experience PAWS, which includes cravings, exhaustion, and cognitive impairment that may not improve for an extended period.

Stimulants

Prescription stimulants such as Ritalin and illicit drugs such as cocaine can induce PAWS if withdrawal is not managed properly. Although a person using stimulants may suffer from adverse side effects like paranoia, twitching, tremors, and aggression, the opposite symptoms – extreme fatigue, intense depression, and physical weakness – can be more difficult to manage.

Symptoms of PAWS are unique to each drug and individual, but there are some common symptoms, including:

  • Hostility or aggression
  • Anxiety, panic, or fear
  • Irritability and moodiness
  • Depression
  • Exhaustion or fatigue
  • Insomnia
  • Difficulty concentrating or thinking
  • Loss of libido
  • Anhedonia, or the inability to feel pleasure
  • Trouble with memory
  • Hypersensitivity to stressful situations

Theories of PAWS Causes

Post-Acute Withdrawal | Harmony Treatment and Wellness

Post-acute withdrawal syndrome is a complicated syndrome with no one specific cause. Psychologists and physicians do not completely agree on the exact reasons for the condition, but some suggest that stress response and changes to certain areas of the brain during the evolution of addiction may contribute to the progression of PAWS. The stress response, however, can be affected by any number of reasons.

Theories about the causes of post-acute withdrawal syndrome include:

Homeostatic Regulation

A person’s chemical dependence on a substance results in brain chemistry changes over time, and when the body is “deprived” of the substance’s presence that triggers neurochemicals to release, it cannot reach a balance on its own. The brain can take a prolonged period to reach equilibrium fully, and this can manifest in moodiness, exhaustion, cravings, and other psychological signs.

Physiological Adaptation

Other body parts may be accustomed to the drugs to regulate functions such as digestion or hormones, and withdrawal symptoms may reflect this. For instance, nausea, stomach cramps, and diarrhea are common opioid withdrawal symptoms, but sometimes, these effects can take more than two weeks to return to normal.

Stress

It is psychologically stressful to stop using an intoxicating substance, especially for people who attempt to do it cold turkey or without medical assistance. This stress can result in relapse, or otherwise lead to the prolonged presence of withdrawal symptoms, as the individual tries to regain a life balance without drugs or alcohol.

Habit

A large part of rehab is learning to alter behaviors and responses to drugs and alcohol. Recovering heroin addicts, for example, fondly recall the ritual of cooking and injecting the drug, while some who overcome alcohol use disorder note the loss of enjoyable social situations. Returning to a habit can result in relapse, but the loss of the habit/tradition can also intensify psychological symptoms such as depression, anxiety, cravings, and exhaustion, leading to PAWS.

Treatment for Post-Acute Withdrawal Syndrome

Because the symptoms of PAWS symptoms are mostly emotional/psychological, continuous support from therapists and counselors is essential to reducing the severity of this experience.

Here are some steps medical and mental health professionals may take to help patients:

  • Provide education about the withdrawal process and what to expect for recovery.
  • Encourage celebration with every accomplished step in the process.
  • Encourage patience.
  • Find natural methods to help with sleep problems.
  • Prescribe exercise and a healthy diet.
  • Assess potential co-occurring disorders, which may emerge or re-emerge.
  • Encourage participation in support groups.
  • Help to regulate impulse control.
  • Take self-reported symptoms seriously.

Some medications may help with withdrawal from specific drugs. For instance, naltrexone is a drug approved to reduce cravings in people who are attempting to overcome an alcohol or opioid addiction. Antidepressants may help stabilize mood for others trying to abstain from the use of stimulants or other psychoactive drugs.

The risk of experiencing PAWS can also be reduced by undergoing a professional detox, enrolling in rehab, and receiving continual support well after initial addiction treatment has been successfully completed.