Addiction is often also called dependence and is when someone finds it hard to stop doing something that makes them feel good. Addictions have two main forms – physical (also called ‘chemical’) and psychological. When people do stop doing the thing that they find hard to stop, there is a result that affects people in a negative way – either physically or psychologically. The HARP team delve into ‘what is addiction withdrawal’ and some tips to management withdrawal. Continue reading for more.
What is Addiction Withdrawal & Tips for Managing Addiction Withdrawal
Addiction can cause a great deal of stress on the body and mind, and there is no doubt that being abstinent, and taking the steps towards recovery is the best thing for all addicts. But that does not mean the recovery journey is without its own stress.
Addiction withdrawal can be very difficult. So, in addition to entering a rehabilitation centre and receiving care from trained professionals, addicts still need to take responsibility of their own body and mind and actively work through addiction withdrawal.
Withdrawal symptoms are different for each person, but the management can be shared. Here are some helpful tips for managing addiction withdrawal.
Exercise
Engaging in a healthy amount of exercise, whether it is walking, weight lifting, running, swimming or even dancing, can help the brain to release endorphins and therefore positively restore chemical balance, all while reducing tension and stress. Exercise has been shown to help minimise relapse and decrease compulsion cravings, giving those on their recovery journey a better chance of stability and improved mental health.
Read our related blog: ‘How to Manage Emotional Triggers’
A Balanced Diet
Eating a balanced diet filled can help with the healing process. Addicts often feel depleted of energy and are typically not giving their body what it needs to run efficiently, so by consuming protein-rich meals and essential vitamins they can restore their brain and replace missing nutrients. Staying away from caffeine, refined sugars, processed foods, oils, and saturated fats can also help. At HARP patients are provided healthy and nutritious meals, made by qualified chefs.
Hydration
Dehydration is very common during addiction withdrawal. Drinking enough water to allow the body to heal properly is paramount, and as we all know by now, many cravings can be mistaken for thirst or hunger. Those in withdrawal should drink on average 2-2.5 litres per day.
Sleep
Having a structed sleep schedule and getting the recommended hours of sleep per night (anywhere from 7-9 hours) is essential to healing and better emotional health. When a person is well rested, they can think more clearly and better control mood swings and cravings. Going to bed at the same time every night and waking up at the same time in the morning is a good way to establish a healthy sleep schedule. Sleep is often disrupted during addiction withdrawal, so trying to regulate it via good sleep habits can be extremely beneficial.
You don’t need to go through it alone
HARP is here to assist all those who seek recovery or need professional help and support with navigating ‘what is addiction withdrawal’. There is no need to go through addiction withdrawal alone. Contact us today to speak about our rehabilitation facility treatment options.
