Fear of Withdrawal

Addiction is a disease that affects the individual in all areas of their life, causing problems in their personal, professional and social life. The consequences to drug or alcohol abuse can be devastating on ones health, it can cause serious legal troubles, financial difficulties and strain on their relationships. Even being aware of the consequences to their drug or alcohol use, many addicts will continue using as the drive is far to strong and takes priority over everything else that is good in their life. Many addicts are afraid of the withdrawal and changes needed to get sober, leaving them stuck in the cycle of addiction.

Frozen in Fear

Many addicts find themselves frozen in fear when it comes to withdrawal from drug or alcohol. The thought of being laid out on the floor in pure agony sends them running back to their substance of choice for relief. The fear of withdrawal plays a powerful role in any addictive disease. As the substance begins to leave the body, its effects fade, and symptoms of withdrawal begin to set in. At this point many turn to drugs or alcohol immediately in fear that it will become much worse. Others will hold out and try to overcome the withdrawal symptoms they are experiencing, many without proper treatment will return to drug or alcohol use in search of comfort.

Physical Withdrawal

The withdrawal that has so many turning away if fear is the physical signs and symptoms of withdrawal associated with abruptly stopping the use of a substance, after chronic use which causes them to develop a tolerance and dependence. The withdrawal symptoms experienced will depend on the substance abused, many include: cravings, tremors, sleeplessness, diarrhea, anxiety, sweating, loss of appetite, and in severe cases the individual may experience hallucinations and seizures.

Psychological Withdrawal

Withdrawal from drugs or alcohol is not purely physical, there are other serious withdrawal symptoms due to a psychological dependence upon a substance. This often causes the addict to experience obsessive thoughts and preoccupation with the substance. There is also a fear of having to face their life’s struggles, pain and stress without drugs or alcohol to help them cope, as well as facing the consequences of their addictive behaviors. Psychological withdrawal can cause an addict to feel pain, guilt, remorse, and self-hatred, often wanting to run back to drugs or alcohol to numb the pain they feel.

Abstinence and Recovery

Fear of withdrawal is normal, many people are overwhelm by the thought of the physical and psychological symptoms associated with it. However it is an obstetrical that you must face in your goal of full abstinence and recovery. A healthy and safe way to get past your fear of withdrawal is to turn to a skilled mental health professional with expertise in addictions, or enter into an addictions treatment center. There you will find the support, guidance and care needed to overcome your fear and once and for all beat your addiction.