This was the best lecture I've seen so far! Thank you. 3 months in from alcohol. I've been confused as to why I am still having down days ... now I realise I may have some way to go, but I'll defintely be hanging in there. Information like yours really, really helps. Again, thank you!
Currently 91 days sober and this video gave me peace of mind- thank you so much for this! Been discouraged with brain fog, lack of concentration, and impairments to memory. I need to be patient with myself, as I am healing.
It sounds like you’re reaching out for some clarity or understanding about PAWS (Post-Acute Withdrawal Syndrome), which can be such a challenging aspect of addiction recovery. PAWS often catches people off guard because it can show up weeks or even months after the initial withdrawal symptoms have faded. It can include things like mood swings, anxiety, difficulty concentrating, sleep disturbances, and even physical symptoms like fatigue. What's tough about PAWS is that it can make recovery feel like an emotional and mental rollercoaster, just when you might have started to feel like you were getting your footing back. It’s important to know that these symptoms, though frustrating, are a normal part of recovery for many people. They come in waves and gradually lessen over time as the brain continues to heal and adjust to life without substances. If you’re experiencing PAWS, it can help to stay connected to your support network-whether that's a therapist, a support group, or trusted friends and family. Practicing self-care, maintaining a consistent routine, and staying patient with yourself are all key. It’s also helpful to remember that PAWS is temporary, and while the symptoms can be difficult, they do improve with time. I’d be grateful if you were to share what you found most useful from the video. Additionally, if you're interested in more tips on the topic or if you want to explore my video library, you can use my AI: allceus.com/AskDocSnipes. If you're open to it, finding professional support that understands addiction recovery and the complexities of PAWS could make a big difference in managing these symptoms. You're doing something incredibly difficult by working through recovery, and acknowledging the impact of PAWS is part of taking care of yourself along the way. Keep going-you’re on a tough journey, but the fact that you're reaching out shows a lot of strength.
I am 3.5 months sober after heavy poisoning of my body with alcohol for over 20 years. I am not sleeping right, napping too long, irritable etc etc. Knowing what your body is going through is half the battle and I find the best way to combat it is with a healthy lifestyle and support groups. Good luck everybody.
I feel like I am dying in this process. I've been getting off Dilaudid and feel like I'm on my death bed. Dizzy, weak, headache. Crohn's flare. I'm down 1mg from 28 after a 3 months taper. I'm cutting cold turkey now. My body feels poisoned
@@sangeetalambh6389 Yeah I did. I would suggest seeing your doctor to eliminate anything serious but meditation and breathing exercises every morning brought my BP back to 120/80 for the first time in years. I am now 7+ months sober and feel much better.
Let me tell you guys there is light at the end of the tunnel. I am going on my third month of PAWS. I still have small symptoms of physical anxiety and digestive issues left. The anxiety disorder/panic attacks are the worst things I have ever experienced. If it helps anyone they get lesser every week. Sometimes they try to sneak up on you, but once you recognize it you can ride it out. Big word of advice is vitamins, cbd cream, magnesium oil, lots of water, nutritious diet and lots of walking and any sort of exercise you can handle. Mediation also saved my life.
I'm on month three off long term Suboxone (12 years), but I also took kratom for a couple weeks after I stopped the Sub. Like you said there are still physical symptoms, but they're much better than they they were. The anxiety is a physical one, and it's worst in the mornings. I've been through benzo withdrawal so my bar for anxiety is pretty high. It's tough to be struggling after this long despite doing all the healthy things, but you don't heal from years of opiate addiction overnight. Stay well.
@@conniecuster6280 I'm doing alright. The post acute opiate symptoms really started to mellow out over the last month, but then I had a relapse which kicked them up again big time. I'm also dealing with serious benzo withdrawal which is complicating things and a nightmare in itself. After a while I was really starting to wonder if I'd ever heal from the opiates, but it happened. A big thing I've learned is to take things slowly and listen to your body because I think the reason I relapsed was trying to do too much too quickly.
Thank you Doc! I’m saving this video to watch over and over again!! What you said made so much sense as to what I’m going through during my alcohol recovery in it’s early stages! You took medical terminology and translated it to such plain language, that I now can understand. The analogies were a breath of fresh air! MR ESCAPER is a brilliant memory aid I can take with me on my particularly ‘bad’ days of recovery during PAWS. 👍🏾👍🏾👍🏾
@@DocSnipes A week ago, I completed a year long struggle with tapering off of (prescription) clonazepam. It was hell, but I'm now completely off this poison. I haven't had any support for this. Believe it or not, the part that I found most helpful was your list of withdrawal symptoms. I suffer from all of them but was interested to see that dizziness was common. I get dizzy sometimes and it's just good to see that it's not just "in my head".
Thanks so much for this, Doc! I learned so much from your presentation that extrapolated greatly on the skills I'm learning from the Addiction Mindset channel. It's beautiful people like you that are helping me to make sure this quit is my last. I wish that a basic form of this knowledge was available to people around the high school age. Teaching addiction as a issue of biology and not one of morality would make such a huge change in the world for the better.
This is probably the most thorough yet easy to understand explanation of post acute syndrome. Plus the metaphors and analogies were pretty amusing. I'm 90 days off 12 years of Suboxone and I just feel weird. I'm happy to be past the agonizing acute phase and super grateful to be off opiates after so long, but it really feels like my head isn't screwed on straight. The strangest part is the anhedonia, and everything feels so pointless and almost stupid. My ability to concentrate is beyond shot and I can hardly bring myself to read something that's longer than a paragraph. Mornings are the worst, and that's when the all the physical symptoms come back, especially anxiety and nausea. It helps knowing the physical causes behind all of it though because it gives some logic to these weird feelings and makes you believe there's some resolve to it once your body figures things out.
I'm about 3 months myself. It feels like forever since I've had energy or motivation to do anything. Subs would hype me up for hours on end... I'm just hoping things get better. Good luck to you brother, sounds like we're in the same boat I hope we make it.
I'm a brotha. Life is definitely a struggle while going through PAWS. Nothing is easy, you have to drag yourself to do anything, and nothing is enjoyable. The only thing that keeps me going is the belief that things will get better with time, hopefully a lot better. Sometimes I have to remind myself of how much things have improved, but it's hard when you still feel like complete crap after three months. Given enough time your body will heal and get back to normal. Hang in there.
@@burf4963 I agree completely. I'm gonna come back to this in a month or so.. See if things are better. One thing I catch myself doing is trying to replace the pk's with other things. Gabepenton, Xanax ( which yeah holy shit is that stupid) I only use them to sleep tho and only rarely. Also massive amounts of aspirin and caffeine. And alcohol too. Sometimes I just want something, anything to feel food again
@@terryjones2467 Be careful with the benzos. I took them recreationally for a couple months and got horrible withdrawals, and here I am six years later still on Valium albeit a small dose I've tapered to. The best thing to do is get out of the mindset that a substance will make you feel better, whether it's alcohol, caffeine, nicotine. That stuff is probably not too harmful in moderation, but when your body is trying to heal itself those things can prevent that from happening. Let's check back in in another month and things should be a lot better then.
So much respect to all those helping others heal. It's a true calling. I absolutely found my purpose as well in telling my story from years of complete despair to healing my brain and getting my life back! 💟🦋🕉
Thank you for your kind words and thank you for watching the video. If you’re interested in videos on PAWS, you can fine more of them at: ua-cam.com/users/DocSnipessearch?query=PAWS
Withdrawing from a stimulate medication concerta. 4 months on the 17th. Hardest time I've ever had in my life. I keep seeing only the beauty coming from it to keep myself going! Update. Feb 3, almost 6 months off, I went back on 10mg of ritalin. I was on it for 12 days and felt buzzed every day. I tried lower IR, the same thing. Went off... then back on. Did this all of feb. And some in march. Then last week. March 8th, I stopped again. Im a week sober. The withdrawal is nowhere as terrible as the first months. I did not abuse my adhd medication, so you can get just as addicted even when taking as prescribed.
I took opioids for my hip for 18 months. I had a massive panic attack went into full blown vertigo for three months. I put the pain pills down in one day. I’ve been off of them for 5 months. I’ve never experienced anxiety like this in my life. I’m praying to God this will go away. I have felt like I’ve been going crazy for months.
Congratulations on being clean from opioids for 18 months. I am sorry you are experiencing anxiety. Here are the videos on anxiety: ua-cam.com/users/DocSnipessearch?query=anxiety
I'm 2 years and 2 months sober. Still not right. 54 years old, chronic depression, difficulty concentrating, cannot hold job. I managed to quit gambling as well, 1 year and 2 months. So I have a few thousand$ in the bank. Barely surviving, generate revenue from delivering groceries and living in a halfway house (low rent). Never imagined my life would be like this. Very difficult. Thanks Doctor for information.
Start a business. You can retire at 65 and just manage it. Before starting talk to business owners to find out how they did it. Watch UA-cam videos on how you can run a business.
I really appreciate your ability to put these issues into easy-to-understand words and delivery. I am in early recovery from alcohol and, as i am listening to this presentation, my dogs are yapping and my husband is grumbling about some issue...and I literally feel like I am being stabbed with pins. It is like experiencing life with a full layer of skin missing...
I am very surprised at how much I like this video. You're so very informative and put it in terms that anyone could understand. And you are spot on. thank you for the help and putting things into perspective
@@DocSnipes can you help me to understand what i am going through...i had a big break down losing 3 family members 15 months ago.i was put on antidepressants and couldnt cope with the side effects, i came off after 4 or 5 month. ive been off for months now and my brain is constantly making a whooshing sound.. head pressure is driving me crazy! my body is so sore from being tense.i have agitation 24.7 its driving me mad.....i get a couple of days where i feel okish then it hits me hard again and i drop.thankyou so much.
@@DocSnipes The explanation of the CNS system and the other system. I’ve been asking people for their individual symptomatic stuff (for instance it feeling like the floor is bouncing when I walk sometimes) because I can’t find specific threads or lines of texts from anyone explaining exactly how they felt or what they went through. On my iamsober app I have gotten some responses with individuals explaining their exact symptoms.
7 months sober and yeah I gotta say this is all accurate. Felt miserable for my first 2 weeks sober. Week 3 was better and after that some up and downs. About a week ago though I was hit out of no where by some some of the worse anxiety and panic I had since those early days of sobriety. But I have to be honest I wasn’t working my program at all and not eating very good for about a month and not taking care of myself as well. Even caught myself talking about drinking with coworkers. Guess it came along and served as a harsh reminder that this thing is far from over and I have to remain vigilant!
Congrats on identifying your backslide before it became a slip! Here is a playlist that might help you stay vigilant. Watch one each day. ua-cam.com/play/PL8hYgDUO3t5YxyZT5AToOxY8fjql_Lcn7.html
@@sauceinnasaucer42 I know the feeling all too well. There’s times it’s so bad I just want to stay locked away in my room all day. But as the saying goes this too shall pass and it does. Just hit my 8th month and at least for the time I’m feeling better than where I was when I posted that comment. Hang in there, there’s a lot of ups and downs but even on my worse day it’s better than my best day drunk.
My biggest problem is knowing all of the things that are good for me and that’ll supposedly help yet not having the motivation/focus to do them because I have anhedonia.
thank you so much for this!! I had no idea our nuerotransmitters were created in the gut, so I am going to be tweaking my strategy...currently 5 days sober and feeling anhedonia. I thought I was going crazy until I listened to many other lectures like this.
I'm going through this right now I've been off of methadone 4 months now and I get panic attacks everynight on top of that I have restless leg syndrome I feel like a zombie I hope this ends soon
Hi doctor I just have 1 question, when the dopamine receptors get sick and the brain shuts them down in response to the surge of dopamine , the receptors that got shut down can recover correct? Thanks doc
Watching this with, possibly, alcohol caused PAWS. Anxiety that is awful has been my main symptom but I've also had bad sleep. Really hoping this passes because it is rough.
I'm suffering right now. 40 days out from a mix of Oxycodone, Codiene and Kratom. I was okay for a few weeks after the first physical withdrawal, but these last few days i've felt so suicidal :(
I have been in and out of recovery since 1985 my clean date is August 8 2022 I have been in and out of rehab since I was 18 years old now I am 55 years old I am glad that you are explaining this to me right now I am an meth addict and opiates addict and alcoholic also but I have not drank in awhile now but I was doing meth and opiates but I have been clean since the 8 of August
It is my 6th month sober.. I quit buprenorphine after 3years of everyday using.. Things are getting better but it is so hard to cut down my sleeping pills now.. I am feeling pretty tierd 😞 But i wont quit sobriety no matter what
can we talk about suboxone, ive been on it for ab a month, after quitting fentanyl (used for 8months), and i want to know how to quit suboxone without withdrawing, and what to expect
I am sorry about that and I appreciate you watching the video. Other videos you might be interested in can be found at ua-cam.com/users/DocSnipessearch?query=addiction
Thank you. I need a deeper understanding of PAWS. I am reading "Staying Sober" (Gorski & Miller). They do a great job; but I just want another perspective on the matter. Oh, I'm a new AOD counselor.
Telling people they can have PAWS for up to a year was wrong in my case.i was a heavy weekend drinker for 20 year,but i have quit 2 years ago this month. For me it was the awful weekend headaches and weekend depression and negative thoughts along with really weird dreams.i am only just getting rid of my weekend headaches and weird dreams now after almost 2 years! But at the end it is liberating i feel so free.but to say it lasts up to a year is misleading.as i say my PAWS lasted almost 2 years and i am sure i am not alone .recovery for me was in waves,and i have read that is normal.so expect some days/weeks to be better than others.expect recovery to take time.good luck everyone who is going through it.
@@bobjohn1234 I've been going through PAWS for 5.5 years. The last two years have been more forgiving, but they can sneak up and be as brutal as the first few months of recovery. Stay the path. 👍
Been off subutex over a month and still have bad days.. The worst is the fatigue. No energy at all. Still.i force myself to exercise 6 days a week. If i over eat next is worse. I thought this would last weeks but now i know what Im in for. I should have stopped long ago. This sucks so bad. I hope I didn't do permanente damage. Thx. I learned alot
I found that when there is something that's bothering me, and I am experiencing paws at the moment, when I think about that irritation I move my eyes latterly, left and right, it seams that the irritation with that thought subsides
I was a moderate drinker, no booze, just 2 to 4 beers a day. Some days or weeks nothing. I'm bipolar ll with ptsd. I quit drinking due to a bad Sumner flu in June. After 3 weeks my life was over. I have every symptom of paws every day. It never let's up or gets better. I eat very clean nutrition the oast 6 years. I'm 59 and most days I just want to be done. I'm not suicidal, but my mind is not well. It is just my personal observation and research that people with ptsd and bipolar can suffer up to 3 years from paws. Now I know why few of us become sober or survive. I will not drink again knowing this is waiting to become worse each time. I'm just not living. I'm depressed, sick, and miserable day and night 60 days sober.
I am sorry you are experiencing that and I am very proud of you. What tips from the video will you use to address that? Other videos that might help can be found at: ua-cam.com/users/DocSnipessearch?query=addiction
@@DocSnipes I’m putting every bullet I can in the gun. Using 5-htp, drinking I gallon of decaf green tea for the L-theanine, just heard about GABA recently, got that in the mix. I tried it last night and fell asleep around 3:45am in my blacked out bedroom. Woke up at 9;45!!! From I didn’t think I’d sleep to a success last night! Oh and prayer and the Bible. Those last 2 are what stopped me from going out and getting beer. Faith ya and testimony from others. Knowing this is what you’ll go through. It’s going to get better… eventually. Just hang on one more day. The clouds clear! Have hope.
I'm a 45 years old and been doin Heroin and cocaine half my life....it took me till this age to realize that I manage to get thru the initial detox 3 to 5 days of intense withdrawals but that's just the begining....I realized in my 40's that I'm lethargic for weeks on end when I try to quit....so I think that I need the drugs for energy.... I'm realizing now it's paws and what it is and that it'll eventually pass.... So now I know in my head I no longer need the drugs.... One day I will be normal!!!
Tapered from methadone over a 100 week period. 1mg a week. Took my last 4 mg dose and was fine. Not great but fine. Then I accidentally took gabapentin 900mg for 3 days to sleep and was thrown into PAWS. Very frustrating and saddened that I may have just messed up my entire recovery process. Fatigue is gone but skin is freezing and hot for weeks now.
Have been addicted to nicotine replacements for a full 10 years. Two months off them and I don't know what to do with myself, anxiety, depression, panic, lack of focus.. Am now freaked out this could be going on for 2 years..very helpful video tho.
@@tyrone8867thank you for asking. I've come through the nicotine withdrawal. I'd say it took me about 6 months to feel normal and not wake up wanting it (it waa the first thing i had in the morning,) I do reach for crutches as coping mechanisms and losing one has been hard but so worthwhile. Aside from health, I couldn't have afforded to carry on!
Oh, dear, addiction medicine is going to have to explain how going off antidepressants and other psychiatric drugs also may result in PAWS for years. There are many similiarities with the same surges of symptoms, insomnia, anxiety, etc. Has nothing to do with age, misuse, or the exact neurotransmitter (such as dopamine), any regularly ingested psychotropic will incur neurophysiological adaptation, physiological dependency, and subsequent withdrawal if you don't taper slowly enough when you quit. (You could consider PAWS a result of incompetent tapering practices.) Most likely, a history of going on and off psychotropics of any type predisposes to more severe withdrawal syndrome and longer PAWS. Anybody who experiences withdrawal symptoms knows intuitively that taking more of the drug will stop withdrawal symptoms -- so much for "craving". FYI THERE IS NO SUCH THING AS UNDERLYING CHEMICAL IMBALANCES, THIS IS A DEBUNKED THEORY.
Right . She is not speaking to the docs and psychiatrist who prescribed psychotropics that were addictive and refused to taper them or tapered them improperly making matters more difficult, triggering iatrogenic illness instead of healing.
How long have you been clean? I have to be honest, even after years of being 100% clean I still felt off. Anxiety, dysphoria, insomnia and memory problems
PAWS can happen to people who are NOT engaging in addictive substances. Benzos taken even at low doses can cause PAWS as do antidepressants and antipsychotics.
10 days clean from pills, I don’t even feel the need to take any it almost makes me sick thinking about taking pills. I don’t have any energy or motivation I can’t wait to feel normal again.
Congratulations on reaching one year of sobriety-that is a significant achievement and a testament to your strength and perseverance. It’s understandable that you might still be experiencing depression and anxiety during this stage of recovery. Post-Acute Withdrawal Syndrome (PAWS) can linger as your brain and body continue healing, often bringing emotional challenges even long after substance use stops. It can be helpful to focus on self-care strategies like establishing a structured routine, engaging in activities that bring you peace, practicing mindfulness, and staying connected with supportive communities or therapy. If you haven’t already, you might also consider reaching out to a mental health professional who can explore treatment options tailored to your needs. Please feel free to share this video if you found it helpful, as it could support others going through a similar experience. You can also find more in-depth tools and resources at DocSnipes.com/Clones to support your ongoing healing. You’re doing incredibly hard work-be kind to yourself along the way!
Ever try Seroquel withdrawal? It is the worst thing I have ever experienced in my life. Four days of no sleep, full body tremors, chills, sweats, emotions, and crawling skin. Think carefully before using this med. I’m not against it-but it is some serious stuff.
I quit opioids for pain mgt a month ago and I still feel like hell. Constant nausea is one of the main symptoms. Is it the neurotransmitter relationship to the gut?
Street slang for P.A.W.S. " -Fuck-its" = the extreme phenomenon of craving - an extreme compulsion that is not controllable buy an attic or alcoholic that's isolated by themselves. PAWS is essentially the state where the brain has not completely healed from the addiction and has periodic episodes of intense cravings and compulsion to use the drug of choice. I'm currently 9 years sober however it took me over 20 years to figure out that p a w s and the Fck it's = my unhealed addiction were the cause - the direct cause of my relapsing my chronic relapsing. The compulsion and the cravings continued periodically up until about 26-28 months. The only thing that saved me from relapsing was having a five member team I was committed to calling in the event I became overwhelmed and paws was induced in my brain/head. What are the contributing factors how I've accumulated 9 years of continuous sobriety and not drinking? 1. I understand full well that if I get loaded with drugs or alcohol then I will reactivate my addiction. If I reactivate my diction it's unlikely that I will ever be able to regain a state where my brain has healed and paws has been eradicated. I believe that the brain has limited capacity for healing with chronic long-term addiction. 2. I came to conclusion that it's now or never I'm going to suffer a quiet life of desperation being addicted if I did not put a stop to the active addiction. 3. Contributing factors that led to healing my addiction; healthy lifestyle led to physical health transformation, I healed my emotional wounds and I subsequently shed the burden of the emotional baggage that was crippling me. Essentially mind and body healing enabled the transformation to occur. 4. I practice the 12th step - I help other alcoholics and addicts and I also volunteer in the community I'm a contribution to my community keeps me out of my head. 5. Additional contributions to society; I fulfill my civic responsibility by making myself available for telephone consultation - I put out offerings on social media for people who are suffering and desire some guidance and suggestions how to navigate their stormy seas of life. Together we do recover.
@@DocSnipes Yes i have been through it all. 7.5 years off and still not fully recovered, there are others just like me. No one knows how to treat it, i tried everything.
I got PAWS from abusing caffiene and I hardly drank alcohol. I quit caffiene, started feeling better but then everytime I drank alcohol my paws would be so bad for atleast 4 days after consumption. If you get paws from one thing, you have to quit all other substances to make the healing process smooth.
Thank you for sharing your experience-it’s a powerful reminder of how sensitive the brain and body can become during the recovery process. PAWS can indeed make substances like caffeine or alcohol feel much more disruptive, even if they weren’t the primary issue. It’s great that you’ve noticed this connection and taken steps to quit caffeine and limit alcohol-it’s not easy, but it’s a significant move toward smoother healing. You’re absolutely right that avoiding all substances that might interfere with recovery can help stabilize the brain’s neurotransmitter systems and make the healing process more manageable. Recovery is unique for everyone, and listening to your body and adjusting your habits as needed is key. If you found the video helpful, please consider sharing it-it might help others understand the importance of making these connections and taking steps to support their recovery. Have you noticed any strategies or habits that help you stay grounded and support your recovery journey? Sharing those insights might inspire and encourage others going through a similar process. You’re doing an incredible job!
@@DocSnipes Since my "health care providers" prescribed this to me (Klonopin) for 28 years without any warning of possible dependence issues and/or the horrible side effects I experienced, I don't trust doctors at all anymore. When I discovered and researched the topic, I'm the one who told my doc I was stopping, and no plan of assistance was offered.
@@Rollwithit699 A lot of doctors do not know the full picture when it come to what drugs can really do to us, what is actually happening and how long it takes to TRULY recover.
@@heavenwithin81 I saw my doctor again for blood work after 10 months post cold turkey w/d and no plan of help from her. She not only didn't ask about the benzo withdrawal, when I chose to bring it up she was obviously uninterested and changed the subject. I had the distinct impression she didn't believe I went through a withdrawal at all. Changing doctors soon, but are there any better doctors out there? All this one ever wants to talk about is getting me back on statin drugs.
Doctor, how does the body get rid of excess hormones and neurotransmitters when it has too much or too little? How does the body or brain eliminate that and level out receptors.
Great question! The body has several mechanisms in place to maintain a balance of hormones and neurotransmitters, which is crucial for overall health and well-being. 1. Metabolism and Breakdown: Hormones and neurotransmitters are broken down by enzymes in the body. For example, the liver plays a key role in metabolizing excess hormones. Enzymes like monoamine oxidase (MAO) and catechol-O-methyltransferase (COMT) break down neurotransmitters like serotonin, dopamine, and norepinephrine into inactive forms, which are then eliminated. 2. Excretion: Once hormones or neurotransmitters are metabolized, their byproducts are usually excreted through urine or bile. The kidneys filter out these waste products, which are then expelled from the body. 3. Reuptake Mechanisms: For neurotransmitters, reuptake processes are vital in maintaining balance. After neurotransmitters are released into the synapse, reuptake transporters in the brain reabsorb the excess back into the neurons. This helps regulate the levels in the synapse and prevent overstimulation. 4. Receptor Regulation: The body also adjusts the sensitivity and density of receptors on cells. For instance, if there’s an excess of a particular hormone or neurotransmitter, the body might downregulate (reduce) the number of receptors, making cells less responsive. Conversely, in cases of deficiency, upregulation (increasing receptor density) can occur to make the system more sensitive. 5. Negative Feedback Loops: The endocrine system relies on feedback loops to regulate hormone levels. For example, when the body detects high levels of a hormone, it signals the gland responsible for producing it to slow down or stop production. These processes are part of the body’s natural way of maintaining homeostasis. However, when these systems become dysregulated, it can lead to various health issues, which is why conditions like hormone imbalances or neurotransmitter-related disorders require careful management. I’d be grateful if you were to share what you found most useful from the video. Also, if you're interested in more tips on the topic or if you want to explore my video library, you can use my AI: allceus.com/AskDocSnipes.
The worst part of PAWS is the RLS (restless leg syndrome). Its such a mind f*ck. You feel fine while moving but when sitting or laying down, its aching pain torture that keeps you from sleeping.
i quite tramadol cold turkey almost 7 weeks ago and i'm still getting severe anxiety that on some days last all day long. it's horrible. are there any anti anxiety meds that will help with this other than xanax? thanks.
I wish this information was readily available 15 years ago when I was going through this for a year while tappering off of lexapro. It was a nightmare journey and the prescriber of that drug told me what I was experiencing was impossible 😂 I know so much more about wellness after that hard journey, and it would have been so much easier then if id have known then what i do now!
I totally agree. One of my main motivations is to get info out there that clinicians are not taught in school so we can validate and support people in their journey. Please share this video far and wide so more people can have an advocate in their corner!
My boyfriend smoked heroine for 15 - 20 years. He is clean now since almost 2 years but his anger is completely out of control. He's also not sleeping yet. Can this be PAWS? Or some underlying mental health condition?
It can be PAWS related or an underlying mental health condition. I am sorry he is experiencing anger. Here are some videos to help him control it: ua-cam.com/users/DocSnipessearch?query=anger
@@DocSnipes thanks so much for your fast reply!🙏 It's impossible to live with him he just seems to be getting more and more aggressive and it's actually more uncontrollable rage than anger. And this rage happens for the smallest of reasons. Asking him one question too much and him feeling overwhelmed can lead to it. Thanks so much for the resources, will definitely look into them!🙏🙏🙏
If I only knew the physical and mental consequences of my actions before I started abusing opiates and a lot of other substances I'd like to think things would have been different. I'm going on a year sober and I still have symptoms of PAWS sporadically sometimes more than sporadically.
21 year old, currently going to what I believe to be PAWS. I've been to doctors and gotten blood work and a headscan. Everything was fine except for my blood pressure, even though I experienced intense dizziness, brainfog, tinnitus, pounding heart, anxiety, and disorientation after a night of binge drinking. 3 months later haven't felt the same since. I feel constantly spaced out with tight shoulders, and memory is a bit absent minded but not sharp.
I went through all that when I quit weed. Those symptoms can last for some time. Be patient it will subside but it may take a few months clean to get there.
@@Kyle-pj2vc detox lasted 3 weeks. Paws started around day 40. The worst of it went on for 8 months. Depression, anxiety, anidonia was the worst of it. What you need to know is that you heal. Your young so you should get through PAWS faster then I did as I'm 42 years and smoked weed since I was 15 years old. Assuming you started using young from your teen years till your turned 21 you will have paws for at least 6 to 8 months. Paws comes in waves from 3 to 5 days at a time in the beginning but later on it's a day or two in between 9 to 12 good days. You will have a less of a chance of relapse if you understand this process of recovery. So far I have been sober a year because of understanding how PAWS works during the early recovery period.
@@Kyle-pj2vc depending on the substance used it hits different parts of the brain. Its possible you still may going through detox if you feel like crap 24/7 and haven't started the paws period yet.
I started taking opiates when I was 16 and have used everyday since with just a few times quitting in between. The physical withdrawals I can deal with but the post-acute withdrawal is the worst. I feel like I fucked up my brains natural chemistry so early on that It literally developed with this dependency to function.
I am sorry you are experiencing PAWS and I appreciate you watching the video. What tips will you use to address your symptoms. Please feel free to use my AI for additional information: allceus.com/AskDocSnipes
@@DocSnipes does dopamine fix all that, I also get this kind of rush of distraction as I'm doing something. It comes with paranoia sometimes, burning sensation in my heart, and really upsets my stomach. It takes all my attention away and makes forget everything, it's my worst symptom.
@@DocSnipes I'm mainly withdrawing from opioids, but the wierd part about the symptom I've mentioned is that I first experienced the exact same thing acid, it was a terrifying experiance. It makes me think that the lsd triggered schizophrenia in me permanently which terrifies me even more. Really need your help, I've spoken with my psychiatrist, but not much help.
Yes, it does. Thank you for watching the video. Other videos you might be interested in can be found at ua-cam.com/users/DocSnipessearch?query=addiction
"Lasts for up to a year". Haha, I wish! I'm going on 5.5 years. Although it has been getting better and better the longer I'm sober, I still have episodes that are brutal.
It’s really commendable that you’ve been sober for 5.5 years, and it’s great to hear that things have been improving over time, even though you're still experiencing challenging episodes. Post-Acute Withdrawal Syndrome (PAWS) can indeed last longer for some individuals, varying greatly depending on a range of factors like the duration and intensity of substance use, personal health, and even genetics. The fact that you’re seeing progress, though gradual, is a testament to your resilience and commitment to recovery. It’s also important to acknowledge that the brain takes time to heal, and these lingering symptoms, while difficult, are a part of that process. In dealing with those brutal episodes, it might be helpful to focus on the strategies that have worked for you so far, while also being open to trying new approaches, such as mindfulness practices, therapy, or support groups, if you haven’t already. Remember, recovery is not always a straight path, but your perseverance through these tough times is a powerful indication of your strength. Stay strong, feel free to use my Ai if you’re interested in learning more about PAWS: allceus.com/AskDocSnipes and continue to reach out for support when you need it. Please don’t hesitate what you’ve got most useful from the video and don’t forget that every step forward, no matter how small, is progress.
@@DocSnipes I'm not sure if this is a response bot, or an actual human, but I'm curios if you do online sessions. I'm in Japan and there isn't much counseling for this problem in English. Thanks in advance. Matt
Heyy, what about cbd tea? I quit cannabis smoking 14 months ago i still have anxiety, will cbd tea have this bad effect on me?? Like the rest of this stuff
I withdrawal from cannabis bad. I have anxiety. CBD is so relieving to my nerves. I have bad anxiety and restlessness and it takes most of it away. I still have to deal with the psychological aspects and tension but CBD helps so much. Research it more. They actually recommend it when withdrawing from drugs
If you drink caffeine, eat artificial foods or lots of sugar and refined foods, smoke cigarettes, drink alcohol, or take any other drug whether it’s legal or not, it will contribute to anxiety. If you haven’t quit everything, the PAWS will last a lot longer. You gotta go back to zero substance baseline brain for it to get back to normal.
CBD is a depressant drug, it definitely helps with anxiety but again, it’s a drug and it’s temporary and in the long run will contribute to brain chemical imbalance. The key is to do zero until your brain heals and then to lightly partake in things like alcohol, sweets, and caffeine, never chronic daily usage of anything because that is precisely how you build tolerance and dependency.
@@PyPi2010 i understand but withdrawals for some people are unbearable and there people with permanent anxiety. Going straight cold turkey is really hard Soda does make my anxiety worse. But I have been thinking about CBD eventually causing some type of side effects if used for long periods
Thank you for your question! It can sometimes be tricky to differentiate between PAWS and the return of underlying anxiety or depression because the symptoms can overlap quite a bit. With PAWS, you might experience mood swings, anxiety, depression, sleep disturbances, and cognitive issues that come in waves as your brain adjusts to functioning without the substance. These symptoms can often appear months after stopping use and tend to fluctuate in intensity. If you’ve had anxiety or depression before, the distinction can be even harder to make. One way to tell is by looking at the timing and patterns of your symptoms. PAWS symptoms often come and go in cycles and may be more intense following periods of stress or triggers related to your previous substance use. On the other hand, if your anxiety or depression feels more constant and is something you've experienced long before the addiction, it could be a return of those conditions. It's important to track your symptoms over time and discuss them with a healthcare provider, who can help differentiate between PAWS and any underlying mental health conditions. Regardless of the cause, seeking support-whether through therapy, support groups, or medical guidance-can help you manage the symptoms and stay on track in your recovery.
Who knows what's going on in brain. The fact is I am fucked and it is 3 months after I stopped Effexor. Maybe it gets better. I don't know anymore. It is hard to remember how it was two months ago. You begin to tell stories to help yourself. It is hell and nobody knows how long you will be there.
Mr Goran u r right I quit sleeping pills 77 days before.i sleep 7 hours daily. But still feel no spirit in body stomach cramps feet sweating.did u feel these sym in ur withdrawal.please answer.i quit smoking and drinking in nnov 2020
Reach out to a professional counselor for local help, if you need assistance. Many insurance policies now also cover telehealth counseling. Wishing you peace, health, and happiness.
I couldn’t quite seem to make it past 10 months bc the paws from MaT were so bad, it was daily not improving, which I can say in the first few weeks, there would be some gradual lessening of the severity , they around 8 weeks,’things never got better , maybe got worse. It’s not that I couldn’t survive it, I obviously did all that time, twice, it’s just that honestly, it was that if that was as good as life could be, I really didn’t want it , so, seemed that the daily use of MAT , even if being tied down to it, at least made thriving possible,‘not an automatic good thing, but at least possible .
There is one huge question? Where thought begins and ends? I am not adenosine, no dopamine, and so on.. I am a person, thinking and emotional. No emotion can be a sum of neurotransmiters. The sum of neurotransmiters is just that a sum of neurotransmiters. And that is not a person, it is not a thought which I experience. It is a problem which cannot be solved.
Neurotransmitters prompt physiological reactions like increased heart rate that we have learned to label with feeling words. The HPA-Axis can be triggered to release various neurotransmitters by thoughts or sensory input
My husband started drinking heavily in his early 20s. He's been experiencing severe PAWS symptoms since he quit 10 months ago. Does this mean that the odds of him making a full recovery are low because he started drinking at a young age? Or, did he likely do permanent damage to his brain?
Choosing a path of heavy drinking in one's early 20s could increase the likelihood of experiencing challenging PAWS symptoms upon quitting and possibly contribute to the risk of lasting brain damage. It's essential to recognize that these effects vary based on personal circumstances. Nevertheless, with compassionate intervention and a commitment to sustained abstinence, recovery is a genuine possibility.
Thank you for your response. He hasn't had a drop of alcohol since he quit, but the symptoms started about 3 weeks after he quit and have been unbearable for both of us. He has more bad days than good. At first, it was just depression and oversleeping/chronic fatigue. Now, there's anxiety, and the worst symptom of all is that when he's tired (which is almost all the time), he exhibits drunken-like/dementia-like behaviour. He'll slur his words, go on rants that don't make sense, is unable to comprehend the things I say, makes huge messes like a toddler would, eats with his hands (pasta, rice, and steak, etc.), takes huge bites of food to the point of choking, swears like crazy, and calls me names. He never even did half of this stuff when he was drinking. Is there a test he can do to see if he's got permanent brain damage? Or, do we just have to wait it out then see if he's got brain damage? Is it normal to exhibit such extreme behaviour at the 10 month mark? And when I say he drank heavily, I mean, he's had seizures and a racing heart rate in the past when he tried to quit cold turkey. That didn't occur when he quit last year, though.
Absolutely, PAWS (Post-Acute Withdrawal Syndrome) can occur not only with addictive substances but also with physical dependency on psychiatric drugs. Even when these medications are taken as prescribed and not abused, discontinuing them can lead to withdrawal symptoms due to the body's physical dependence. It's important for individuals to work closely with their healthcare providers to manage and mitigate these symptoms effectively. Please feel free to share what you’ve found most useful from the video and, if you’re interested in learning more about PAWS or to search for videos in the video library, don’t hesitate to use my AI: allceus.com/AskDocSnipes.
I quit smoking meth a year ago . I still get suicidal ideations, feel like I’m dying when I left alone , and have bad depression . Can somebody explain to me what I can possibly be going thru ?
Keep suicide hotline numbers handy, and hopefully you are working with a medical doctor and a professional counselor. Thanks for watching! Wishing you peace, health, and, happiness.
@@DocSnipes yes I do call them all the time to have someone to talk to . I have a mental health counselor that I speak to once every week . I’m just praying this will pass been feeling so de attached from life :(
@@cagurdeepminhas1074 believe it or not after being so isolated for months , I finally made it out the house yesterday !! Let me tell you the side effects are still there from withdrawal but it isn’t unusual as it can last up for 2 years . 14 months sober now so it does get better overtime but you have to stay determined and hydrated . Anxiety still there but I’m trying to maintain it & overcome the irrational fears .
I feel like I’m going crazy. I got into a motorcycle accident 3 1/2 years ago. They had me on opioids that whole time. I forced myself off of them 5 1/2 months ago and ever since then I’ve had constant anxiety/shaking, sweaty palms/feet, heart palpitations, shortness of breath, panic attacks and just being uncomfortable 24/7. It’s nonstop. I don’t get a break. I’d rather go through my accident again and cut off half my hand and have my femur sticking out of my knee than deal with this. This has ruined my life more than my accident. And my accident took my hand and walking ability.
Thank you so much for sharing how you're feeling. I know it can be really tough to think about dealing with Post-Acute Withdrawal Syndrome (PAWS) for such a long time, especially when every day can feel like an uphill battle. It’s important to remind yourself that you don’t have to go through it alone, and there are tools and supports that can make the journey more manageable, even on the hardest days. What’s been helping you get through this so far? Sometimes even the smallest victories can make a big difference, and I’d love to hear what’s been working for you.
So paws happens with taking prescriptions as prescribed and also abusing them??? I took my adhd medication as prescribed, and when i wanted to stop, i went through PAWS. Unreal a pill can make you feel the worst you ever felt coming off it.
@@christianrodgers3213 It will definitely help, but THC is just another substance which can become an issue if you abuse it. Stay away from high THC, maybe mix with some CBD hemp. I've been there and it's hard.
I was addicted to pornography for 30 years. Been free of PMO for over 6 months. I say it’s legit with this addiction too with the amount of excitation and dopamine produced. It’s been a rough few months. I think it’s getting better tho 👍
So are there any treatments that one can make use of when revoking addictive stimulants - that goes beyond just doing it in steps? Are there any known ways of artificially upregulating receptors that are low as a result of stimulant abuse to shorten the recovery period? Are there any chemicals that are associated with upregulating receptors that bind with dopamine, cannabinoid, glutamiate or norepinephrine?
One of the best videos about PAWS on UA-cam!
THANK YOU ❤
Thank you. I appreciate you watching the video.
This was the best lecture I've seen so far! Thank you. 3 months in from alcohol. I've been confused as to why I am still having down days ... now I realise I may have some way to go, but I'll defintely be hanging in there. Information like yours really, really helps. Again, thank you!
Currently 91 days sober and this video gave me peace of mind- thank you so much for this! Been discouraged with brain fog, lack of concentration, and impairments to memory. I need to be patient with myself, as I am healing.
It sounds like you’re reaching out for some clarity or understanding about PAWS (Post-Acute Withdrawal Syndrome), which can be such a challenging aspect of addiction recovery. PAWS often catches people off guard because it can show up weeks or even months after the initial withdrawal symptoms have faded. It can include things like mood swings, anxiety, difficulty concentrating, sleep disturbances, and even physical symptoms like fatigue.
What's tough about PAWS is that it can make recovery feel like an emotional and mental rollercoaster, just when you might have started to feel like you were getting your footing back. It’s important to know that these symptoms, though frustrating, are a normal part of recovery for many people. They come in waves and gradually lessen over time as the brain continues to heal and adjust to life without substances.
If you’re experiencing PAWS, it can help to stay connected to your support network-whether that's a therapist, a support group, or trusted friends and family. Practicing self-care, maintaining a consistent routine, and staying patient with yourself are all key. It’s also helpful to remember that PAWS is temporary, and while the symptoms can be difficult, they do improve with time.
I’d be grateful if you were to share what you found most useful from the video. Additionally, if you're interested in more tips on the topic or if you want to explore my video library, you can use my AI: allceus.com/AskDocSnipes.
If you're open to it, finding professional support that understands addiction recovery and the complexities of PAWS could make a big difference in managing these symptoms. You're doing something incredibly difficult by working through recovery, and acknowledging the impact of PAWS is part of taking care of yourself along the way. Keep going-you’re on a tough journey, but the fact that you're reaching out shows a lot of strength.
I am 3.5 months sober after heavy poisoning of my body with alcohol for over 20 years. I am not sleeping right, napping too long, irritable etc etc. Knowing what your body is going through is half the battle and I find the best way to combat it is with a healthy lifestyle and support groups. Good luck everybody.
I feel like I am dying in this process. I've been getting off Dilaudid and feel like I'm on my death bed. Dizzy, weak, headache. Crohn's flare. I'm down 1mg from 28 after a 3 months taper. I'm cutting cold turkey now. My body feels poisoned
@@scarlettfreedom3629 I hope you are doing alright/better.. i am in this phase and suffering but i hope i can handle it and move forward
Ronald did u feel fatigue like no spirit in body and stomach cramps in ur withdrawal.please answer I m 79 days sober
@@sangeetalambh6389 Yeah I did. I would suggest seeing your doctor to eliminate anything serious but meditation and breathing exercises every morning brought my BP back to 120/80 for the first time in years. I am now 7+ months sober and feel much better.
@@scarlettfreedom3629 how r u now
Let me tell you guys there is light at the end of the tunnel. I am going on my third month of PAWS. I still have small symptoms of physical anxiety and digestive issues left. The anxiety disorder/panic attacks are the worst things I have ever experienced. If it helps anyone they get lesser every week. Sometimes they try to sneak up on you, but once you recognize it you can ride it out. Big word of advice is vitamins, cbd cream, magnesium oil, lots of water, nutritious diet and lots of walking and any sort of exercise you can handle. Mediation also saved my life.
:)
I'm on month three off long term Suboxone (12 years), but I also took kratom for a couple weeks after I stopped the Sub. Like you said there are still physical symptoms, but they're much better than they they were. The anxiety is a physical one, and it's worst in the mornings. I've been through benzo withdrawal so my bar for anxiety is pretty high. It's tough to be struggling after this long despite doing all the healthy things, but you don't heal from years of opiate addiction overnight. Stay well.
@@burf4963 keep up the good fight brother! You are not alone.
@@burf4963 how are you? I said a prayer for you today!! I hope all is well
@@conniecuster6280 I'm doing alright. The post acute opiate symptoms really started to mellow out over the last month, but then I had a relapse which kicked them up again big time. I'm also dealing with serious benzo withdrawal which is complicating things and a nightmare in itself. After a while I was really starting to wonder if I'd ever heal from the opiates, but it happened. A big thing I've learned is to take things slowly and listen to your body because I think the reason I relapsed was trying to do too much too quickly.
Thank you Doc! I’m saving this video to watch over and over again!! What you said made so much sense as to what I’m going through during my alcohol recovery in it’s early stages! You took medical terminology and translated it to such plain language, that I now can understand. The analogies were a breath of fresh air! MR ESCAPER is a brilliant memory aid I can take with me on my particularly ‘bad’ days of recovery during PAWS. 👍🏾👍🏾👍🏾
Wishing you peace, health and happiness. Thanks for watching.
This woman is absolutely charming. She's authentic, natural and does not have that overly polished style of many presenters.
Thank you for your kind words and thank you for watching the video. What did you find most helpful from it?
@@DocSnipes A week ago, I completed a year long struggle with tapering off of (prescription) clonazepam. It was hell, but I'm now completely off this poison. I haven't had any support for this. Believe it or not, the part that I found most helpful was your list of withdrawal symptoms. I suffer from all of them but was interested to see that dizziness was common. I get dizzy sometimes and it's just good to see that it's not just "in my head".
Thanks so much for this, Doc! I learned so much from your presentation that extrapolated greatly on the skills I'm learning from the Addiction Mindset channel. It's beautiful people like you that are helping me to make sure this quit is my last.
I wish that a basic form of this knowledge was available to people around the high school age. Teaching addiction as a issue of biology and not one of morality would make such a huge change in the world for the better.
Great to hear! Thanks for watching.
I like it.
This is probably the most thorough yet easy to understand explanation of post acute syndrome. Plus the metaphors and analogies were pretty amusing. I'm 90 days off 12 years of Suboxone and I just feel weird. I'm happy to be past the agonizing acute phase and super grateful to be off opiates after so long, but it really feels like my head isn't screwed on straight. The strangest part is the anhedonia, and everything feels so pointless and almost stupid. My ability to concentrate is beyond shot and I can hardly bring myself to read something that's longer than a paragraph. Mornings are the worst, and that's when the all the physical symptoms come back, especially anxiety and nausea. It helps knowing the physical causes behind all of it though because it gives some logic to these weird feelings and makes you believe there's some resolve to it once your body figures things out.
I'm about 3 months myself. It feels like forever since I've had energy or motivation to do anything. Subs would hype me up for hours on end... I'm just hoping things get better. Good luck to you brother, sounds like we're in the same boat I hope we make it.
Or sister haha
I'm a brotha. Life is definitely a struggle while going through PAWS. Nothing is easy, you have to drag yourself to do anything, and nothing is enjoyable. The only thing that keeps me going is the belief that things will get better with time, hopefully a lot better. Sometimes I have to remind myself of how much things have improved, but it's hard when you still feel like complete crap after three months. Given enough time your body will heal and get back to normal. Hang in there.
@@burf4963 I agree completely. I'm gonna come back to this in a month or so.. See if things are better. One thing I catch myself doing is trying to replace the pk's with other things. Gabepenton, Xanax ( which yeah holy shit is that stupid) I only use them to sleep tho and only rarely. Also massive amounts of aspirin and caffeine. And alcohol too. Sometimes I just want something, anything to feel food again
@@terryjones2467 Be careful with the benzos. I took them recreationally for a couple months and got horrible withdrawals, and here I am six years later still on Valium albeit a small dose I've tapered to. The best thing to do is get out of the mindset that a substance will make you feel better, whether it's alcohol, caffeine, nicotine. That stuff is probably not too harmful in moderation, but when your body is trying to heal itself those things can prevent that from happening. Let's check back in in another month and things should be a lot better then.
So much respect to all those helping others heal. It's a true calling. I absolutely found my purpose as well in telling my story from years of complete despair to healing my brain and getting my life back! 💟🦋🕉
Thanks for watching and commenting.
You will be better version of yourself Aimee
Best wishes 🕉️ namaha shivaya 🙏🏼
This is the best video on this topic I've ever seen
Thank you for your kind words and thank you for watching the video. If you’re interested in videos on PAWS, you can fine more of them at: ua-cam.com/users/DocSnipessearch?query=PAWS
Withdrawing from a stimulate medication concerta. 4 months on the 17th. Hardest time I've ever had in my life. I keep seeing only the beauty coming from it to keep myself going!
Update. Feb 3, almost 6 months off, I went back on 10mg of ritalin. I was on it for 12 days and felt buzzed every day. I tried lower IR, the same thing. Went off... then back on. Did this all of feb. And some in march. Then last week. March 8th, I stopped again. Im a week sober. The withdrawal is nowhere as terrible as the first months. I did not abuse my adhd medication, so you can get just as addicted even when taking as prescribed.
Thank you so much for watching. I am glad you are on the right path. What are your favorite tips from the video?
@@DocSnipes all of the tips. You are simply the best person ever. Can I make an appt with you?
I took opioids for my hip for 18 months. I had a massive panic attack went into full blown vertigo for three months. I put the pain pills down in one day. I’ve been off of them for 5 months. I’ve never experienced anxiety like this in my life. I’m praying to God this will go away. I have felt like I’ve been going crazy for months.
Congratulations on being clean from opioids for 18 months. I am sorry you are experiencing anxiety. Here are the videos on anxiety: ua-cam.com/users/DocSnipessearch?query=anxiety
Congrats on the 5 (now 6) mos.! Keep going - anxiety will gradually disappear.
I know it's awful,ten years on oxycontin.6 months off it's tough.Wish I had dealt with pain without opiates
Hope you're doing better! Hang in the there. With time and abstinence we heal!
@@JasonBrown-dd7dj Congrats. It gets better with time.
I'm 2 years and 2 months sober. Still not right. 54 years old, chronic depression, difficulty concentrating, cannot hold job. I managed to quit gambling as well, 1 year and 2 months. So I have a few thousand$ in the bank. Barely surviving, generate revenue from delivering groceries and living in a halfway house (low rent). Never imagined my life would be like this. Very difficult. Thanks Doctor for information.
Thanks for watching and commenting.
What did you take?
Start a business. You can retire at 65 and just manage it. Before starting talk to business owners to find out how they did it. Watch UA-cam videos on how you can run a business.
maybe you should check you health , maybe it is not related to paws...
TRT
I really appreciate your ability to put these issues into easy-to-understand words and delivery. I am in early recovery from alcohol and, as i am listening to this presentation, my dogs are yapping and my husband is grumbling about some issue...and I literally feel like I am being stabbed with pins. It is like experiencing life with a full layer of skin missing...
Wishing you peace, health and happiness. Thanks for watching.
Life with a full layer of skin missing so we'll said jetta
Really informative ! keep up the good work,it helps us a lot!
I am very surprised at how much I like this video. You're so very informative and put it in terms that anyone could understand. And you are spot on. thank you for the help and putting things into perspective
Thank you so much! I appreciate you watching, and hopefully subscribing.
@@DocSnipes can you help me to understand what i am going through...i had a big break down losing 3 family members 15 months ago.i was put on antidepressants and couldnt cope with the side effects, i came off after 4 or 5 month. ive been off for months now and my brain is constantly making a whooshing sound.. head pressure is driving me crazy! my body is so sore from being tense.i have agitation 24.7 its driving me mad.....i get a couple of days where i feel okish then it hits me hard again and i drop.thankyou so much.
Thank you for sharing! So many people don't know about PAWS
You are so welcome!
Very complete .A pleasure . Thank you Dawn !
You’re so welcome. Thanks for watching. What did you find most useful from it?
These comments are everything. Three months in too here you guys! It’s so ironic a lot of us are here at month three watching this. Love you all!
Thanks so much for watching the video. What did you find most useful from it?
@@DocSnipes The explanation of the CNS system and the other system. I’ve been asking people for their individual symptomatic stuff (for instance it feeling like the floor is bouncing when I walk sometimes) because I can’t find specific threads or lines of texts from anyone explaining exactly how they felt or what they went through. On my iamsober app I have gotten some responses with individuals explaining their exact symptoms.
Count me in, 3 months in to PAWS as well.
I've heard that PAWS is a long-term roller coaster ride that goes on for YEARS
Recovery time vary. Thanks for watching. Wishing you peace, health, and happiness.
Thank you for this info! 30 days sober! Went thru hell the first week. I now know what I am dealing with now, which is paws.
Good job. I don't get shakes but anxiety horrible.
So glad I found this. Thank you Doc. At least I have some hope again.
Thanks for watching.
I just found this video. I'm 98 days away from 2 years clean from a heroin/pain med addiction. I still have PAWS episodes.
Thanks for sharing. Wishing you peace, health, and happiness.
F drugs. You’re way better without them. Keep Learning and find out what you can do to make you happier.
7 months sober and yeah I gotta say this is all accurate. Felt miserable for my first 2 weeks sober. Week 3 was better and after that some up and downs. About a week ago though I was hit out of no where by some some of the worse anxiety and panic I had since those early days of sobriety. But I have to be honest I wasn’t working my program at all and not eating very good for about a month and not taking care of myself as well. Even caught myself talking about drinking with coworkers. Guess it came along and served as a harsh reminder that this thing is far from over and I have to remain vigilant!
Congrats on identifying your backslide before it became a slip! Here is a playlist that might help you stay vigilant.
Watch one each day. ua-cam.com/play/PL8hYgDUO3t5YxyZT5AToOxY8fjql_Lcn7.html
These anxiety symptoms make me feel like I have an underlying conditions. They just keep changing and affection different parts of my body it’s hell!
@@sauceinnasaucer42 I know the feeling all too well. There’s times it’s so bad I just want to stay locked away in my room all day. But as the saying goes this too shall pass and it does. Just hit my 8th month and at least for the time I’m feeling better than where I was when I posted that comment. Hang in there, there’s a lot of ups and downs but even on my worse day it’s better than my best day drunk.
@@nathan_the_barbarian7974 how are you now at 10 months? Congratulations by the way!
I’m on 8.5 months sober from alcohol, still have symptoms of paws some days ,I’m 38 drank for 18 years
My biggest problem is knowing all of the things that are good for me and that’ll supposedly help yet not having the motivation/focus to do them because I have anhedonia.
@christine cheeseman It isn’t a form of depression but it’s one of its symptoms. I think it has to do with the reward system not working properly.
@@colindavis2113 how solutionate
@@Buhofree true that. Working on it now
thank you so much for this!! I had no idea our nuerotransmitters were created in the gut, so I am going to be tweaking my strategy...currently 5 days sober and feeling anhedonia. I thought I was going crazy until I listened to many other lectures like this.
I appreciate you watching
@@DocSnipes of course! And your analogies we're on point, the sponge one was my fav :) cheers!
I'm going through this right now I've been off of methadone 4 months now and I get panic attacks everynight on top of that I have restless leg syndrome I feel like a zombie I hope this ends soon
I’m 8 months alcohol sober and went through sleep anxiety recently on and off , good book called dare helped me
How are you doing? My boyfriend went through this and made it out the other side many many years ago. You got this!!
@@conniecuster6280 that's wonderful to hear, I believe you
How are you doing now? How’s your sleep. Do you still have restless leg?
Britt M how r u now
Hi doctor I just have 1 question, when the dopamine receptors get sick and the brain shuts them down in response to the surge of dopamine , the receptors that got shut down can recover correct? Thanks doc
Very informative thanks Dr snipes never heard paws explained the way you do👍
Watching this with, possibly, alcohol caused PAWS. Anxiety that is awful has been my main symptom but I've also had bad sleep. Really hoping this passes because it is rough.
Keep going friend I am 3 months in it does get better.
Watch huberman sleep videos. Make sleep a priority
Thanks for sharing. I’m going through it now. This information helps.
Thanks for watching.
I'm suffering right now. 40 days out from a mix of Oxycodone, Codiene and Kratom. I was okay for a few weeks after the first physical withdrawal, but these last few days i've felt so suicidal :(
That’s awful. Is there someone you can turn for support?
@@DocSnipes none at all. On my own in this one.
I have been in and out of recovery since 1985 my clean date is August 8 2022 I have been in and out of rehab since I was 18 years old now I am 55 years old I am glad that you are explaining this to me right now I am an meth addict and opiates addict and alcoholic also but I have not drank in awhile now but I was doing meth and opiates but I have been clean since the 8 of August
I appreciate you watching! Other videos you might be interested in can be found at: ua-cam.com/users/DocSnipessearch?query=PAWS
@@DocSnipes thanks I will be watching
What helped me was i kept a good diet and exercised during my usage of opiates. And i don't drink, or take anythinf else it was only opiates.
Thanks for watching and commenting.
It is my 6th month sober..
I quit buprenorphine after 3years of everyday using..
Things are getting better but it is so hard to cut down my sleeping pills now.. I am feeling pretty tierd 😞 But i wont quit sobriety no matter what
Congrats on 6th Months! Wishing you peace, health, and happiness.
@@DocSnipes thank you 🥰
can we talk about suboxone, ive been on it for ab a month, after quitting fentanyl (used for 8months), and i want to know how to quit suboxone without withdrawing, and what to expect
@@jberetta2771 now is the time! Don't stay on too long, it will make it more difficult to get off of it!! Taper down
@@jberetta2771 how u doing ?? It’s terrible and drawn out GET OFF
Hello Dr, will you ever explain the kindling effect please ?
I am 156 days sober and my anxiety is still sky high , i never had any anxiety problems before i started drinking so this is really messing with me.
I am sorry about that and I appreciate you watching the video. Other videos you might be interested in can be found at ua-cam.com/users/DocSnipessearch?query=addiction
Thank you for this 🙏🏼
You're so welcome!
Thank you. I need a deeper understanding of PAWS. I am reading "Staying Sober" (Gorski & Miller). They do a great job; but I just want another perspective on the matter. Oh, I'm a new AOD counselor.
Glad it was helpful!
Telling people they can have PAWS for up to a year was wrong in my case.i was a heavy weekend drinker for 20 year,but i have quit 2 years ago this month. For me it was the awful weekend headaches and weekend depression and negative thoughts along with really weird dreams.i am only just getting rid of my weekend headaches and weird dreams now after almost 2 years!
But at the end it is liberating i feel so free.but to say it lasts up to a year is misleading.as i say my PAWS lasted almost 2 years and i am sure i am not alone .recovery for me was in waves,and i have read that is normal.so expect some days/weeks to be better than others.expect recovery to take time.good luck everyone who is going through it.
do you drink caffeine at the weekends? maybe you expirience caffeine withdrawal...
@@bobjohn1234 I've been going through PAWS for 5.5 years. The last two years have been more forgiving, but they can sneak up and be as brutal as the first few months of recovery.
Stay the path. 👍
Been off subutex over a month and still have bad days.. The worst is the fatigue. No energy at all. Still.i force myself to exercise 6 days a week. If i over eat next is worse. I thought this would last weeks but now i know what Im in for. I should have stopped long ago. This sucks so bad. I hope I didn't do permanente damage. Thx. I learned alot
Thanks for watching. Wishing you peace, health, and happiness.
I found that when there is something that's bothering me, and I am experiencing paws at the moment, when I think about that irritation I move my eyes latterly, left and right, it seams that the irritation with that thought subsides
Isn't that the EMDR method? I hear it WORKS!
Got me over here practicing the movements looking like a weirdo.. but I'm definitely keeping this one in the safe and going to give it a try..
I was a moderate drinker, no booze, just 2 to 4 beers a day. Some days or weeks nothing. I'm bipolar ll with ptsd. I quit drinking due to a bad Sumner flu in June. After 3 weeks my life was over. I have every symptom of paws every day. It never let's up or gets better. I eat very clean nutrition the oast 6 years. I'm 59 and most days I just want to be done. I'm not suicidal, but my mind is not well. It is just my personal observation and research that people with ptsd and bipolar can suffer up to 3 years from paws. Now I know why few of us become sober or survive. I will not drink again knowing this is waiting to become worse each time. I'm just not living. I'm depressed, sick, and miserable day and night 60 days sober.
Prescription Opiates only. Cravings are definitely not an issue
I am feeling chilled and short temper. Cant sleep threw the night is the worse part.
Yes I’m day 16. Can’t sleep. I sense the panic attacks like you say. Out of no where.
I am sorry you are experiencing that and I am very proud of you. What tips from the video will you use to address that? Other videos that might help can be found at: ua-cam.com/users/DocSnipessearch?query=addiction
@@DocSnipes I’m putting every bullet I can in the gun. Using 5-htp, drinking I gallon of decaf green tea for the L-theanine, just heard about GABA recently, got that in the mix.
I tried it last night and fell asleep around 3:45am in my blacked out bedroom. Woke up at 9;45!!!
From I didn’t think I’d sleep to a success last night! Oh and prayer and the Bible. Those last 2 are what stopped me from going out and getting beer. Faith ya and testimony from others. Knowing this is what you’ll go through. It’s going to get better… eventually. Just hang on one more day. The clouds clear! Have hope.
Also melatonin , b vitamins, omega 3s, vitamin D, vitamin c.
I'm a 45 years old and been doin Heroin and cocaine half my life....it took me till this age to realize that I manage to get thru the initial detox 3 to 5 days of intense withdrawals but that's just the begining....I realized in my 40's that I'm lethargic for weeks on end when I try to quit....so I think that I need the drugs for energy.... I'm realizing now it's paws and what it is and that it'll eventually pass.... So now I know in my head I no longer need the drugs.... One day I will be normal!!!
Thanks for watching.
Hope you are well brother
Just had to pause right here. The "Tolerance" analogy is very clever. Even I understand it now.
TY!
Stool softener like ducolax or something.
Tapered from methadone over a 100 week period. 1mg a week. Took my last 4 mg dose and was fine. Not great but fine. Then I accidentally took gabapentin 900mg for 3 days to sleep and was thrown into PAWS. Very frustrating and saddened that I may have just messed up my entire recovery process. Fatigue is gone but skin is freezing and hot for weeks now.
how r u now?
Have been addicted to nicotine replacements for a full 10 years. Two months off them and I don't know what to do with myself, anxiety, depression, panic, lack of focus.. Am now freaked out this could be going on for 2 years..very helpful video tho.
Wishing you peace, health and happiness
How are you now?
@@tyrone8867thank you for asking. I've come through the nicotine withdrawal. I'd say it took me about 6 months to feel normal and not wake up wanting it (it waa the first thing i had in the morning,) I do reach for crutches as coping mechanisms and losing one has been hard but so worthwhile. Aside from health, I couldn't have afforded to carry on!
Great vid .. now whats a great plan to heal
Thanks for watching the video.
Other videos you might be interested in can be found at ua-cam.com/users/DocSnipessearch?query=PAWS
Oh, dear, addiction medicine is going to have to explain how going off antidepressants and other psychiatric drugs also may result in PAWS for years. There are many similiarities with the same surges of symptoms, insomnia, anxiety, etc. Has nothing to do with age, misuse, or the exact neurotransmitter (such as dopamine), any regularly ingested psychotropic will incur neurophysiological adaptation, physiological dependency, and subsequent withdrawal if you don't taper slowly enough when you quit. (You could consider PAWS a result of incompetent tapering practices.) Most likely, a history of going on and off psychotropics of any type predisposes to more severe withdrawal syndrome and longer PAWS. Anybody who experiences withdrawal symptoms knows intuitively that taking more of the drug will stop withdrawal symptoms -- so much for "craving". FYI THERE IS NO SUCH THING AS UNDERLYING CHEMICAL IMBALANCES, THIS IS A DEBUNKED THEORY.
There is imbalance. Because people are prescribed psychotropic drugs and it ruin natural brain chemistry.
Right . She is not speaking to the docs and psychiatrist who prescribed psychotropics that were addictive and refused to taper them or tapered them improperly making matters more difficult, triggering iatrogenic illness instead of healing.
You just earned yourself a subscriber lol. You're a game changer!
So kind. Thanks so much for joining the channel.
So what does this “some level of permanent damage from using at a young age” look like? I may be one of them
How long have you been clean? I have to be honest, even after years of being 100% clean I still felt off. Anxiety, dysphoria, insomnia and memory problems
PAWS can happen to people who are NOT engaging in addictive substances. Benzos taken even at low doses can cause PAWS as do antidepressants and antipsychotics.
I appreciate you watching
Thank you so much for this video
10 days clean from pills, I don’t even feel the need to take any it almost makes me sick thinking about taking pills. I don’t have any energy or motivation I can’t wait to feel normal again.
How long were you on them?
1 year sober from alcohol, and still battling a major depression and anxiety.
Congratulations on reaching one year of sobriety-that is a significant achievement and a testament to your strength and perseverance. It’s understandable that you might still be experiencing depression and anxiety during this stage of recovery. Post-Acute Withdrawal Syndrome (PAWS) can linger as your brain and body continue healing, often bringing emotional challenges even long after substance use stops.
It can be helpful to focus on self-care strategies like establishing a structured routine, engaging in activities that bring you peace, practicing mindfulness, and staying connected with supportive communities or therapy. If you haven’t already, you might also consider reaching out to a mental health professional who can explore treatment options tailored to your needs.
Please feel free to share this video if you found it helpful, as it could support others going through a similar experience. You can also find more in-depth tools and resources at DocSnipes.com/Clones to support your ongoing healing. You’re doing incredibly hard work-be kind to yourself along the way!
It's paws that always gets me. Its that extreme you feel suicidal. That's why I feel stuck on them. (opiates)
Ever try Seroquel withdrawal? It is the worst thing I have ever experienced in my life. Four days of no sleep, full body tremors, chills, sweats, emotions, and crawling skin.
Think carefully before using this med. I’m not against it-but it is some serious stuff.
I appreciate you watching
I quit opioids for pain mgt a month ago and I still feel like hell. Constant nausea is one of the main symptoms. Is it the neurotransmitter relationship to the gut?
Street slang for P.A.W.S. " -Fuck-its" = the extreme phenomenon of craving - an extreme compulsion that is not controllable buy an attic or alcoholic that's isolated by themselves.
PAWS is essentially the state where the brain has not completely healed from the addiction and has periodic episodes of intense cravings and compulsion to use the drug of choice.
I'm currently 9 years sober however it took me over 20 years to figure out that p a w s and the Fck it's = my unhealed addiction were the cause - the direct cause of my relapsing my chronic relapsing.
The compulsion and the cravings continued periodically up until about 26-28 months.
The only thing that saved me from relapsing was having a five member team I was committed to calling in the event I became overwhelmed and paws was induced in my brain/head.
What are the contributing factors how I've accumulated 9 years of continuous sobriety and not drinking?
1. I understand full well that if I get loaded with drugs or alcohol then I will reactivate my addiction. If I reactivate my diction it's unlikely that I will ever be able to regain a state where my brain has healed and paws has been eradicated.
I believe that the brain has limited capacity for healing with chronic long-term addiction.
2. I came to conclusion that it's now or never I'm going to suffer a quiet life of desperation being addicted if I did not put a stop to the active addiction.
3. Contributing factors that led to healing my addiction; healthy lifestyle led to physical health transformation, I healed my emotional wounds and I subsequently shed the burden of the emotional baggage that was crippling me. Essentially mind and body healing enabled the transformation to occur.
4. I practice the 12th step - I help other alcoholics and addicts and I also volunteer in the community I'm a contribution to my community keeps me out of my head.
5. Additional contributions to society; I fulfill my civic responsibility by making myself available for telephone consultation - I put out offerings on social media for people who are suffering and desire some guidance and suggestions how to navigate their stormy seas of life.
Together we do recover.
Thank you for this very valuable comment
Withdrawal from benzos may last way beyond "1-2 years", for some people it lasts several years
Good point. Here is a great webpage that summarizes the course of the recovery process. www.benzo.org.uk/pws04.htm
@@DocSnipes Yes i have been through it all. 7.5 years off and still not fully recovered, there are others just like me. No one knows how to treat it, i tried everything.
Facts. I'm almost 3 years clean from painkillers and still don't feel normal
Christ this scares me. Is there just no hope or whaaaat lol. 😒🤞🏼🤞🏼
@@amandasmith6230 as bad as it gets, I'm clean and I'll take that over going back to addiction.
Happy belated 51st bday Dawn Elise ;)
Awww. Thank you so much, Anthony! I am so grateful for you, being here and watching videos
I got PAWS from abusing caffiene and I hardly drank alcohol. I quit caffiene, started feeling better but then everytime I drank alcohol my paws would be so bad for atleast 4 days after consumption. If you get paws from one thing, you have to quit all other substances to make the healing process smooth.
Thank you for sharing your experience-it’s a powerful reminder of how sensitive the brain and body can become during the recovery process. PAWS can indeed make substances like caffeine or alcohol feel much more disruptive, even if they weren’t the primary issue. It’s great that you’ve noticed this connection and taken steps to quit caffeine and limit alcohol-it’s not easy, but it’s a significant move toward smoother healing.
You’re absolutely right that avoiding all substances that might interfere with recovery can help stabilize the brain’s neurotransmitter systems and make the healing process more manageable. Recovery is unique for everyone, and listening to your body and adjusting your habits as needed is key.
If you found the video helpful, please consider sharing it-it might help others understand the importance of making these connections and taking steps to support their recovery.
Have you noticed any strategies or habits that help you stay grounded and support your recovery journey? Sharing those insights might inspire and encourage others going through a similar process. You’re doing an incredible job!
I’m 21 months clean from valium and I’m still not right when will it end ?
It is important to consult with your providers to assess what else might be going on that is contributing to whatever symptoms you are still having.
@@DocSnipes Since my "health care providers" prescribed this to me (Klonopin) for 28 years without any warning of possible dependence issues and/or the horrible side effects I experienced, I don't trust doctors at all anymore. When I discovered and researched the topic, I'm the one who told my doc I was stopping, and no plan of assistance was offered.
@@Rollwithit699 A lot of doctors do not know the full picture when it come to what drugs can really do to us, what is actually happening and how long it takes to TRULY recover.
@@heavenwithin81 I saw my doctor again for blood work after 10 months post cold turkey w/d and no plan of help from her. She not only didn't ask about the benzo withdrawal, when I chose to bring it up she was obviously uninterested and changed the subject. I had the distinct impression she didn't believe I went through a withdrawal at all. Changing doctors soon, but are there any better doctors out there? All this one ever wants to talk about is getting me back on statin drugs.
Jack did u feel fatigue like no spirit in body and stomach cramps in ur withdrawal please ans I m 95 days sober
Can Low Dose Naltrexone help?
It depends on what dose your doctor recommends
I m 4 months alcohol clean I am still fatigue and brain tightness how many months paws recover
Thanks for watching. Wishing you peace, health, and happiness.
AB KYA HAAL HAI BHAI
Feeling same way right now almost 5 months how long did it last for you?
Doctor, how does the body get rid of excess hormones and neurotransmitters when it has too much or too little? How does the body or brain eliminate that and level out receptors.
Great question! The body has several mechanisms in place to maintain a balance of hormones and neurotransmitters, which is crucial for overall health and well-being.
1. Metabolism and Breakdown: Hormones and neurotransmitters are broken down by enzymes in the body. For example, the liver plays a key role in metabolizing excess hormones. Enzymes like monoamine oxidase (MAO) and catechol-O-methyltransferase (COMT) break down neurotransmitters like serotonin, dopamine, and norepinephrine into inactive forms, which are then eliminated.
2. Excretion: Once hormones or neurotransmitters are metabolized, their byproducts are usually excreted through urine or bile. The kidneys filter out these waste products, which are then expelled from the body.
3. Reuptake Mechanisms: For neurotransmitters, reuptake processes are vital in maintaining balance. After neurotransmitters are released into the synapse, reuptake transporters in the brain reabsorb the excess back into the neurons. This helps regulate the levels in the synapse and prevent overstimulation.
4. Receptor Regulation: The body also adjusts the sensitivity and density of receptors on cells. For instance, if there’s an excess of a particular hormone or neurotransmitter, the body might downregulate (reduce) the number of receptors, making cells less responsive. Conversely, in cases of deficiency, upregulation (increasing receptor density) can occur to make the system more sensitive.
5. Negative Feedback Loops: The endocrine system relies on feedback loops to regulate hormone levels. For example, when the body detects high levels of a hormone, it signals the gland responsible for producing it to slow down or stop production.
These processes are part of the body’s natural way of maintaining homeostasis. However, when these systems become dysregulated, it can lead to various health issues, which is why conditions like hormone imbalances or neurotransmitter-related disorders require careful management.
I’d be grateful if you were to share what you found most useful from the video. Also, if you're interested in more tips on the topic or if you want to explore my video library, you can use my AI: allceus.com/AskDocSnipes.
@@DocSnipes wow doc you really give me hope I will one day recover. Thank you so much for your reply and time.
Any thoughts on Naltrexone ?
The worst part of PAWS is the RLS (restless leg syndrome). Its such a mind f*ck. You feel fine while moving but when sitting or laying down, its aching pain torture that keeps you from sleeping.
I am sorry you are going through this and I appreciate you watching the video
i quite tramadol cold turkey almost 7 weeks ago and i'm still getting severe anxiety that on some days last all day long. it's horrible. are there any anti anxiety meds that will help with this other than xanax? thanks.
I am sorry about that. Sadly I cannot recommend medication. Please talk to your doctor about that. Thanks for watching
I’ve been going to aa for 5 years. Never have I heard anything about this.
You won't find people dealing with paws at AA. If you get addicted to benzos its a high possibility you'll experience it
You won't hear anyone talking about benzos at AA, mister. Don't associate us woth those losers. Everyone knows that (LMMFAOOOO!!) 🙄
I wish this information was readily available 15 years ago when I was going through this for a year while tappering off of lexapro. It was a nightmare journey and the prescriber of that drug told me what I was experiencing was impossible 😂 I know so much more about wellness after that hard journey, and it would have been so much easier then if id have known then what i do now!
I totally agree. One of my main motivations is to get info out there that clinicians are not taught in school so we can validate and support people in their journey. Please share this video far and wide so more people can have an advocate in their corner!
My boyfriend smoked heroine for 15 - 20 years. He is clean now since almost 2 years but his anger is completely out of control. He's also not sleeping yet. Can this be PAWS? Or some underlying mental health condition?
It can be PAWS related or an underlying mental health condition. I am sorry he is experiencing anger. Here are some videos to help him control it: ua-cam.com/users/DocSnipessearch?query=anger
@@DocSnipes thanks so much for your fast reply!🙏
It's impossible to live with him he just seems to be getting more and more aggressive and it's actually more uncontrollable rage than anger. And this rage happens for the smallest of reasons. Asking him one question too much and him feeling overwhelmed can lead to it.
Thanks so much for the resources, will definitely look into them!🙏🙏🙏
If I only knew the physical and mental consequences of my actions before I started abusing opiates and a lot of other substances I'd like to think things would have been different. I'm going on a year sober and I still have symptoms of PAWS sporadically sometimes more than sporadically.
Do you feel better?
21 year old, currently going to what I believe to be PAWS. I've been to doctors and gotten blood work and a headscan. Everything was fine except for my blood pressure, even though I experienced intense dizziness, brainfog, tinnitus, pounding heart, anxiety, and disorientation after a night of binge drinking. 3 months later haven't felt the same since. I feel constantly spaced out with tight shoulders, and memory is a bit absent minded but not sharp.
I went through all that when I quit weed. Those symptoms can last for some time. Be patient it will subside but it may take a few months clean to get there.
@@irey1978 how many months did it take you
@@Kyle-pj2vc detox lasted 3 weeks. Paws started around day 40. The worst of it went on for 8 months. Depression, anxiety, anidonia was the worst of it. What you need to know is that you heal. Your young so you should get through PAWS faster then I did as I'm 42 years and smoked weed since I was 15 years old. Assuming you started using young from your teen years till your turned 21 you will have paws for at least 6 to 8 months. Paws comes in waves from 3 to 5 days at a time in the beginning but later on it's a day or two in between 9 to 12 good days. You will have a less of a chance of relapse if you understand this process of recovery. So far I have been sober a year because of understanding how PAWS works during the early recovery period.
@@irey1978 I think I have something else then because I feel the same dull cloud 24/7.. not in waves.. and it hasn't seemed to lessen much in severity
@@Kyle-pj2vc depending on the substance used it hits different parts of the brain. Its possible you still may going through detox if you feel like crap 24/7 and haven't started the paws period yet.
I started taking opiates when I was 16 and have used everyday since with just a few times quitting in between. The physical withdrawals I can deal with but the post-acute withdrawal is the worst. I feel like I fucked up my brains natural chemistry so early on that It literally developed with this dependency to function.
I am sorry you are experiencing PAWS and I appreciate you watching the video. What tips will you use to address your symptoms. Please feel free to use my AI for additional information: allceus.com/AskDocSnipes
What causes disorganized speech, or worse, disorganized thoughts?
Much of that depends on the drug one is withdrawing from, but if there is sudden cognitive impairment is is essential to get evaluated by a physician.
@@DocSnipes does dopamine fix all that, I also get this kind of rush of distraction as I'm doing something. It comes with paranoia sometimes, burning sensation in my heart, and really upsets my stomach. It takes all my attention away and makes forget everything, it's my worst symptom.
@@DocSnipes I'm mainly withdrawing from opioids, but the wierd part about the symptom I've mentioned is that I first experienced the exact same thing acid, it was a terrifying experiance. It makes me think that the lsd triggered schizophrenia in me permanently which terrifies me even more. Really need your help, I've spoken with my psychiatrist, but not much help.
@@hotsauce153 dpdr?
Mushrooms triggered schizophrenia in my brother. He was a heavy drug user before that happened though.
@doc snipes does this go for brain healing neurotransmitter from years of masterbation addiction
Yes, it does. Thank you for watching the video. Other videos you might be interested in can be found at ua-cam.com/users/DocSnipessearch?query=addiction
"Lasts for up to a year". Haha, I wish! I'm going on 5.5 years. Although it has been getting better and better the longer I'm sober, I still have episodes that are brutal.
It’s really commendable that you’ve been sober for 5.5 years, and it’s great to hear that things have been improving over time, even though you're still experiencing challenging episodes. Post-Acute Withdrawal Syndrome (PAWS) can indeed last longer for some individuals, varying greatly depending on a range of factors like the duration and intensity of substance use, personal health, and even genetics.
The fact that you’re seeing progress, though gradual, is a testament to your resilience and commitment to recovery. It’s also important to acknowledge that the brain takes time to heal, and these lingering symptoms, while difficult, are a part of that process.
In dealing with those brutal episodes, it might be helpful to focus on the strategies that have worked for you so far, while also being open to trying new approaches, such as mindfulness practices, therapy, or support groups, if you haven’t already. Remember, recovery is not always a straight path, but your perseverance through these tough times is a powerful indication of your strength.
Stay strong, feel free to use my Ai if you’re interested in learning more about PAWS: allceus.com/AskDocSnipes and continue to reach out for support when you need it.
Please don’t hesitate what you’ve got most useful from the video and don’t forget that every step forward, no matter how small, is progress.
@@DocSnipes I'm not sure if this is a response bot, or an actual human, but I'm curios if you do online sessions. I'm in Japan and there isn't much counseling for this problem in English.
Thanks in advance.
Matt
Sober from alkochol?
@@9tsankov Yes.
@@ottam pfgg i am almost 3 years sober and it rollercoaster.
1 year - hell
2 year - decent
3-year hell , but not like the first
Heyy, what about cbd tea? I quit cannabis smoking 14 months ago i still have anxiety, will cbd tea have this bad effect on me?? Like the rest of this stuff
Honestly I’m all for it but CBD studies are too new. If it’s just cannabis you were using I would say NO to cbd.
I withdrawal from cannabis bad. I have anxiety. CBD is so relieving to my nerves. I have bad anxiety and restlessness and it takes most of it away. I still have to deal with the psychological aspects and tension but CBD helps so much. Research it more. They actually recommend it when withdrawing from drugs
If you drink caffeine, eat artificial foods or lots of sugar and refined foods, smoke cigarettes, drink alcohol, or take any other drug whether it’s legal or not, it will contribute to anxiety. If you haven’t quit everything, the PAWS will last a lot longer. You gotta go back to zero substance baseline brain for it to get back to normal.
CBD is a depressant drug, it definitely helps with anxiety but again, it’s a drug and it’s temporary and in the long run will contribute to brain chemical imbalance. The key is to do zero until your brain heals and then to lightly partake in things like alcohol, sweets, and caffeine, never chronic daily usage of anything because that is precisely how you build tolerance and dependency.
@@PyPi2010 i understand but withdrawals for some people are unbearable and there people with permanent anxiety. Going straight cold turkey is really hard Soda does make my anxiety worse. But I have been thinking about CBD eventually causing some type of side effects if used for long periods
How do you know if it's PAWS or just your anxiety/depression returning?
Thank you for your question! It can sometimes be tricky to differentiate between PAWS and the return of underlying anxiety or depression because the symptoms can overlap quite a bit. With PAWS, you might experience mood swings, anxiety, depression, sleep disturbances, and cognitive issues that come in waves as your brain adjusts to functioning without the substance. These symptoms can often appear months after stopping use and tend to fluctuate in intensity.
If you’ve had anxiety or depression before, the distinction can be even harder to make. One way to tell is by looking at the timing and patterns of your symptoms. PAWS symptoms often come and go in cycles and may be more intense following periods of stress or triggers related to your previous substance use. On the other hand, if your anxiety or depression feels more constant and is something you've experienced long before the addiction, it could be a return of those conditions.
It's important to track your symptoms over time and discuss them with a healthcare provider, who can help differentiate between PAWS and any underlying mental health conditions. Regardless of the cause, seeking support-whether through therapy, support groups, or medical guidance-can help you manage the symptoms and stay on track in your recovery.
@@DocSnipes Thanks. And I take it if you don’t have acute withdrawal you’re not likely to have post-acute withdrawal, right?
Do you have any comments about lyrica? I’ve been on it for 14 years
Who knows what's going on in brain. The fact is I am fucked and it is 3 months after I stopped Effexor. Maybe it gets better. I don't know anymore. It is hard to remember how it was two months ago. You begin to tell stories to help yourself. It is hell and nobody knows how long you will be there.
Mr Goran u r right
I quit sleeping pills 77 days before.i sleep 7 hours daily. But still feel no spirit in body stomach cramps feet sweating.did u feel these sym in ur withdrawal.please answer.i quit smoking and drinking in nnov 2020
@@dorothy5718 what are You doing right now
6 weeks into sub withdrawals still only getting 2 hours of sleep a night, feeling pretty desperate.
Reach out to a professional counselor for local help, if you need assistance. Many insurance policies now also cover telehealth counseling. Wishing you peace, health, and happiness.
@@DocSnipes Thanks, I’m in the UK, actually, I do have a wonderful therapist, but the sleep problem is tough to solve.
how long were u on subs? i’ve been on it for a month now
I couldn’t quite seem to make it past 10 months bc the paws from MaT were so bad, it was daily not improving, which I can say in the first few weeks, there would be some gradual lessening of the severity , they around 8 weeks,’things never got better , maybe got worse. It’s not that I couldn’t survive it, I obviously did all that time, twice, it’s just that honestly, it was that if that was as good as life could be, I really didn’t want it , so, seemed that the daily use of MAT , even if being tied down to it, at least made thriving possible,‘not an automatic good thing, but at least possible .
Thank you so much for watching and for sharing. What worked for you during those months? What brought you joy?
There is one huge question? Where thought begins and ends? I am not adenosine, no dopamine, and so on.. I am a person, thinking and emotional. No emotion can be a sum of neurotransmiters. The sum of neurotransmiters is just that a sum of neurotransmiters. And that is not a person, it is not a thought which I experience. It is a problem which cannot be solved.
Neurotransmitters prompt physiological reactions like increased heart rate that we have learned to label with feeling words. The HPA-Axis can be triggered to release various neurotransmitters by thoughts or sensory input
Relapsed 2 years ago sober over 5 weeks
Congrats on your 5 weeks. Thanks for watching. Wishing you peace, health, and happiness.
My husband started drinking heavily in his early 20s. He's been experiencing severe PAWS symptoms since he quit 10 months ago. Does this mean that the odds of him making a full recovery are low because he started drinking at a young age? Or, did he likely do permanent damage to his brain?
Choosing a path of heavy drinking in one's early 20s could increase the likelihood of experiencing challenging PAWS symptoms upon quitting and possibly contribute to the risk of lasting brain damage. It's essential to recognize that these effects vary based on personal circumstances. Nevertheless, with compassionate intervention and a commitment to sustained abstinence, recovery is a genuine possibility.
Thank you for your response. He hasn't had a drop of alcohol since he quit, but the symptoms started about 3 weeks after he quit and have been unbearable for both of us. He has more bad days than good. At first, it was just depression and oversleeping/chronic fatigue. Now, there's anxiety, and the worst symptom of all is that when he's tired (which is almost all the time), he exhibits drunken-like/dementia-like behaviour. He'll slur his words, go on rants that don't make sense, is unable to comprehend the things I say, makes huge messes like a toddler would, eats with his hands (pasta, rice, and steak, etc.), takes huge bites of food to the point of choking, swears like crazy, and calls me names. He never even did half of this stuff when he was drinking. Is there a test he can do to see if he's got permanent brain damage? Or, do we just have to wait it out then see if he's got brain damage? Is it normal to exhibit such extreme behaviour at the 10 month mark? And when I say he drank heavily, I mean, he's had seizures and a racing heart rate in the past when he tried to quit cold turkey. That didn't occur when he quit last year, though.
@@Banana-lk7tf how is he doing now? This sounds similar to me but with prescribed drug withdrawals
This can happen in a non addictive stance, for example physical dependency from psychiatric drugs.
Absolutely, PAWS (Post-Acute Withdrawal Syndrome) can occur not only with addictive substances but also with physical dependency on psychiatric drugs. Even when these medications are taken as prescribed and not abused, discontinuing them can lead to withdrawal symptoms due to the body's physical dependence. It's important for individuals to work closely with their healthcare providers to manage and mitigate these symptoms effectively. Please feel free to share what you’ve found most useful from the video and, if you’re interested in learning more about PAWS or to search for videos in the video library, don’t hesitate to use my AI: allceus.com/AskDocSnipes.
I quit smoking meth a year ago . I still get suicidal ideations, feel like I’m dying when I left alone , and have bad depression . Can somebody explain to me what I can possibly be going thru ?
Keep suicide hotline numbers handy, and hopefully you are working with a medical doctor and a professional counselor. Thanks for watching! Wishing you peace, health, and, happiness.
@@DocSnipes yes I do call them all the time to have someone to talk to . I have a mental health counselor that I speak to once every week . I’m just praying this will pass been feeling so de attached from life :(
@@Eli-nu6yb HOW ARE YOU NOW BRO
@@cagurdeepminhas1074 believe it or not after being so isolated for months , I finally made it out the house yesterday !! Let me tell you the side effects are still there from withdrawal but it isn’t unusual as it can last up for 2 years . 14 months sober now so it does get better overtime but you have to stay determined and hydrated . Anxiety still there but I’m trying to maintain it & overcome the irrational fears .
@@Eli-nu6yb what you are having in food..
I feel like I’m going crazy. I got into a motorcycle accident 3 1/2 years ago. They had me on opioids that whole time. I forced myself off of them 5 1/2 months ago and ever since then I’ve had constant anxiety/shaking, sweaty palms/feet, heart palpitations, shortness of breath, panic attacks and just being uncomfortable 24/7. It’s nonstop. I don’t get a break. I’d rather go through my accident again and cut off half my hand and have my femur sticking out of my knee than deal with this. This has ruined my life more than my accident. And my accident took my hand and walking ability.
How are you functioning ? How are you feeling now ?
Kratom may be the answer
Idk if I can do this for 2 years.
Thank you so much for sharing how you're feeling. I know it can be really tough to think about dealing with Post-Acute Withdrawal Syndrome (PAWS) for such a long time, especially when every day can feel like an uphill battle. It’s important to remind yourself that you don’t have to go through it alone, and there are tools and supports that can make the journey more manageable, even on the hardest days.
What’s been helping you get through this so far? Sometimes even the smallest victories can make a big difference, and I’d love to hear what’s been working for you.
So paws happens with taking prescriptions as prescribed and also abusing them??? I took my adhd medication as prescribed, and when i wanted to stop, i went through PAWS. Unreal a pill can make you feel the worst you ever felt coming off it.
I am sorry that happened to you and I appreciate you watching the video.
I use marijuanna to help with paws from alchol. Will the marijuanna keep me from fully healing from alchol paws?
The THC in cannabis will alter your neurotransmitters.
@@DocSnipes so will marijuanna keep me from healing from alchol paws?
@@christianrodgers3213 It will definitely help, but THC is just another substance which can become an issue if you abuse it. Stay away from high THC, maybe mix with some CBD hemp. I've been there and it's hard.
How many years it take to heal brain?
Many many jears
I was addicted to pornography for 30 years. Been free of PMO for over 6 months. I say it’s legit with this addiction too with the amount of excitation and dopamine produced. It’s been a rough few months. I think it’s getting better tho 👍
I am happy to read that you are on the right track and I appreciate you watching
Can u suffer digestive problems after using opioids for 3 years while going thru paws ?
Sure u can gaestrointestinal issues are a part of withdrawals I m going thru those even after 9 months n that's the biggest part of my withdrawals
So are there any treatments that one can make use of when revoking addictive stimulants - that goes beyond just doing it in steps?
Are there any known ways of artificially upregulating receptors that are low as a result of stimulant abuse to shorten the recovery period? Are there any chemicals that are associated with upregulating receptors that bind with dopamine, cannabinoid, glutamiate or norepinephrine?