Some people who are diagnosed with substance use disorder (SUD) have complex symptoms that affect their ability to heal and move forward after treatment. Post-acute withdrawal syndrome (PAWS) and other complications may cause people to experience symptoms and side effects for prolonged periods. Treatment programs address these issues by providing clients with skill development and aftercare resources to ensure they have the information and tools to maintain ongoing sobriety while navigating challenges. The Guest House offers ongoing alumni support and other services to assist individuals in successfully managing PAWS.
What Is Post-Acute Withdrawal Syndrome?
PAWS is a condition characterized by persistent physical and psychological withdrawal symptoms lasting beyond the typical withdrawal period. The effects of PAWS may disrupt long-term recovery unless clients receive additional support to help them manage these symptoms. According to the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA), “The process of recovery is highly personal and occurs via many pathways,” including “clinical treatment, medications, faith-based approaches, peer support, family support, self-care, and other approaches.”
The symptoms and side effects of PAWS may impact focus, motivation, and overall mental health. Those who are affected by PAWS may find it harder to stay sober and remain productive at work or school. The symptoms may cause people to feel easily overwhelmed or ambivalent about long-term recovery. Those with opioid use disorder (OUD) and alcohol use disorder (AUD) have a higher risk of experiencing PAWS.
Aftercare services support alumni who are experiencing persistent symptoms of withdrawal. Therapy, prescription medications, and other forms of treatment can help alumni manage this condition.
Common Symptoms of Post-Acute Withdrawal Syndrome
People dealing with PAWS may worry about returning to work or engaging in social activities after completing treatment. Recognizing and addressing symptoms of PAWS improves a person’s ability to work and maintain healthy social relationships. The Guest House ensures that alumni feel confident managing their symptoms, returning to work, and engaging with others.
Some common symptoms of PAWS include the following:
- Difficulty focusing
- Sleep disturbances, including insomnia and oversleeping
- Uncharacteristic irritability or aggression
- Anxiety and panic attacks
- Depressive symptoms
- Loss of motivation
- Lack of interest in previously enjoyed activities
- Extreme mood swings
- Exhaustion or low energy throughout the day
These psychological symptoms often interfere with a person’s ability to manage their physical side effects. For example, individuals with depressive episodes may find it harder to set a healthy sleep schedule. Alumni services provide additional care, including referrals to individual or group therapists, to help people develop healthy routines for managing PAWS.
How Do Symptoms Impact Recovery?
Symptoms of PAWS vary widely depending on many factors, including a person’s age, the type of substances they abused, their overall health, and the presence of any co-occurring conditions. The Guest House personalizes treatment to ensure that clients receive the level of care they need to heal from the effects of SUD.
PAWS may negatively affect recovery from SUD by doing the following:
- Contributing to financial insecurity
- Reducing overall health and wellness
- Decreasing motivation and productivity at work
People with PAWS may experience various symptoms and side effects depending on their age, co-occurring conditions, and other factors that impact overall wellness. Managing PAWS is the best way to reduce potential adverse side effects and develop positive habits to increase productivity at work. The Guest House offers comprehensive aftercare and alumni services to help people maintain their progress during treatment.
Practical Ways to Manage Post-Acute Withdrawal Syndrome at Work
Some practical ways people manage PAWS at work include the following:
- Creating a regular schedule and consistent routine
- Taking short, frequent breaks throughout the workday
- Breaking down larger tasks into smaller, more achievable goals
- Incorporating mindfulness exercises into work activities
- Building a support network of peers and loved ones
- Requesting accommodations for more severe symptoms
- Prioritizing self-care during and after work
- Reducing the use of stimulants like coffee, which may contribute to anxiety
- Consistently attending therapy, self-help, and treatment programs
Effectively managing PAWS may reduce or eliminate some side effects and symptoms.
Navigating PAWS and Co-Occurring Mental Health Disorders in the Workplace
Employers have many policies, procedures, and guidelines for addressing various aspects of staff safety and health. People with PAWS may not always feel comfortable informing their supervisors or coworkers about their need for additional support as they navigate long-term sobriety. Fear of workplace repercussions, job loss, or social stigma may cause people to avoid disclosing their needs.
Fortunately, The Guest House provides support and resources to individuals struggling with PAWS after returning to work. Community-based and privately offered services give alumni healthy ways to manage stress, anxiety, lack of focus, and other workplace productivity issues.
Asking Your Workplace for Support or Accommodations
The Americans With Disabilities Act (ADA) protects people in recovery from substance abuse from being fired or disciplined due to their condition. According to the U.S. Commission on Civil Rights (USCCR), “An employer may not discriminate against a person who has a history of drug addiction but who is not currently using drugs and who has been rehabilitated.”
Anyone requiring accommodations due to PAWS should have access to some legal protections as long as they maintain abstinence. The Guest House can provide additional information about how to request employee accommodations.
Post-acute withdrawal syndrome (PAWS) can affect all areas of a person’s life, including their productivity at work and ability to build meaningful workplace connections. Managing symptoms and side effects when returning to work often requires lifestyle changes that support positive mental health. For example, creating a nighttime routine improves sleep and reduces the severity of some symptoms. Workplaces may also offer accommodations and recovery support resources to alumni who have participated in addiction recovery treatment. The Guest House provides ongoing support to uplift and encourage alumni experiencing challenges returning to work. To learn more about our programs and the services we offer to reduce the effects of PAWS, call our office today at (855) 483-7800.