HOW TO COPE WITH WITHDRAWAL SYMPTOMS AFTER QUITTING DRUGS

By / January 22, 2025

HOW TO COPE WITH WITHDRAWAL SYMPTOMS AFTER QUITTING DRUGS

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Coping with withdrawal symptoms after quitting drugs can be challenging, but it’s an essential step toward recovery. Here’s how you can manage withdrawal symptoms effectively:

1. Understand Withdrawal Symptoms

Withdrawal symptoms vary depending on the drug and the duration of use but may include:

  • Physical symptoms: Sweating, nausea, tremors, headaches, muscle pain.
  • Psychological symptoms: Anxiety, depression, irritability, cravings, mood swings.
  • Sleep disturbances: Insomnia or excessive sleepiness.

2. Seek Medical Support

  • Consult a Doctor: A healthcare provider can assess your condition and recommend a safe detox plan.
  • Medication Assistance:
    • Some drugs (e.g., opioids, alcohol, nicotine) have medications that help ease withdrawal, such as:
      • Methadone or Buprenorphine: For opioid withdrawal.
      • Nicotine Replacement Therapy (NRT): For nicotine cravings.
      • Benzodiazepines: For alcohol-related withdrawal (under medical supervision).
  • Supervised Detox: Severe cases may require inpatient detox at a medical facility.

3. Stay Hydrated and Nourished

  • Drink Plenty of Water: Helps flush toxins from your system.
  • Eat a Balanced Diet: Focus on fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and whole grains to replenish nutrients.

4. Manage Stress and Anxiety

  • Practice Relaxation Techniques:
    • Deep breathing exercises.
    • Meditation or mindfulness.
    • Progressive muscle relaxation.
  • Exercise Regularly:
    • Activities like walking, yoga, or swimming release endorphins, improving mood and reducing stress.

5. Get Adequate Rest

  • Establish a Sleep Routine: Go to bed and wake up at the same time each day.
  • Create a Relaxing Environment: Reduce noise, dim the lights, and avoid screens before bedtime.
  • Natural Sleep Aids: Herbal teas (e.g., chamomile) or over-the-counter remedies may help with insomnia.

6. Stay Occupied

  • Engage in Hobbies: Pick up activities that interest you, such as art, reading, or gardening.
  • Volunteer or Work: Keeping busy distracts from cravings and builds a sense of purpose.

HOW TO COPE WITH WITHDRAWAL SYMPTOMS AFTER QUITTING DRUGS

7. Build a Support System

  • Talk to Friends or Family: Share your feelings with trusted loved ones.
  • Join Support Groups:
    • Groups like Narcotics Anonymous (NA) or Alcoholics Anonymous (AA) provide a sense of community.
  • Therapy or Counseling:
    • Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) helps address emotional triggers and teaches coping skills.
    • Group therapy offers shared experiences and support.

8. Avoid Triggers

  • Identify High-Risk Situations: Steer clear of people, places, or activities associated with drug use.
  • Practice Saying No: Prepare responses to avoid peer pressure.

9. Monitor Cravings

  • Distract Yourself: Engage in an activity when cravings arise.
  • Delay and Deep Breathe: Wait for the craving to pass, as it often does within minutes.
  • Drink Water or Chew Gum: This can help reduce the intensity of cravings.

10. Stay Positive

  • Celebrate Milestones: Acknowledge your progress, no matter how small.
  • Be Kind to Yourself: Relapses may happen; treat them as a learning experience, not a failure.

11. Emergency Support

  • If withdrawal symptoms become severe (e.g., seizures, hallucinations, severe anxiety), seek medical help immediately.

Resources in Kenya

  • NACADA Helpline: 1192 (free support for addiction-related issues).
  • Rehabilitation Centers: Visit certified facilities like Mathari National Teaching and Referral Hospital or private rehab centers.

Withdrawal is temporary, and the discomfort will pass. By seeking support and taking proactive steps, you’ll be able to transition into a healthier, drug-free life.

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