Definition: A term referring to the feelings of discomfort, distress, and intense craving for a substance that occur when use of the substance is stopped. These physical symptoms occur because the body had become metabolically adapted to the substance. The withdrawal symptoms can range from mild discomfort resembling the flu to severe withdrawal that can actually be life threatening.
There are five basic stages of withdrawal:
There are five basic stages of withdrawal:
- Withdrawal Stage – lasts up to 15 days and may be accompanied by fatigue, pain, anxiety, and depression.
- Honeymoon Stage – the opposite of withdrawal that is often accompanied by feelings of energy, optimism, and confidence.
- The Wall Stage – time when most relapses occur due to the reemergence of feelings of anxiety and depression.
- Adjustment Stage – a period of realization and acceptance that change is a lifelong struggle.
- Resolution Stage – occurs after six months of sobriety or abstinence.
