Definition:

Post-Acute-Withdrawal Syndrome (PAWS) refers to the set of symptoms that can persist for weeks or months after the abstaining from an abused substance. PAWS symptoms are similar to those found in mood disorders and anxiety disorders, including mood swings, insomnia, and increased levels of anxiety even without any apparent stimulus.

PAWS symptoms most commonly occur after a withdrawal period from alcohol, benzodiazepine, and opioid. The reasons behind PAWS are still being investigated, but it is believed that physical changes to the brain that occur during substance abuse are responsible for the recurring symptoms.

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SUD Substance Use Disorder Mental Health Disorder withdrawal co-occurring disorders IDDT COD Dual Diagnosis