One of the things I learned about in rehab is PAWS. Forewarned is forearmed.
PAWS is Post Acute Withdrawal Syndome. Below is a link describing the symptoms.
Not everyone who quits drinking/drugging suffers from it but 70-90% do show some symptoms in varying degrees.
Post Acute Withdrawl - Relapse Prevention Specialists - TLC The Living Center
Because PAWS can make sobriety a challenge at first (and for several months to 2 years), it is a really good idea to understand what is happening with you so you can deal with it without relapsing.
The medical community is becoming aware that PAWS may be a very big contributor to relapse. Understanding what you are going through and perhaps counseling to help alleviate/ameliorate the symptoms can help.
When I told my hubby about this, he laughed and asked me how I would know whether I was suffering from PAWS or not.
Anyway, just sharing some of the stuff I recently learned in rehab. I am exhibiting a few of the symptoms - overreacting to emotional stimulii, uncoordinated (more than normal for me), and difficulty concentrating.
btw, PAWS doesn't just affect alcoholics, it also affects drug addicts. One of my counselors told me it took him over a year before he would walk anywhere near the edge of a curb without fear of falling off.
Cindi
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