Stimulants are drugs which provide feelings of enhanced mood and energy and include cocaine and methamphetamine. They affect the body’s Central Nervous System (CNS) and increase neurotransmitter activity. If used frequently and consistently, the brain can become reliant on these drugs to regulate cognitive function and focus. Also known as ‘uppers’, you know that what goes up must come down and in this case the feeling of low mood and exhaustion once the drug’s effect eases off is what leads you to take it again. When the cycle is repeated through necessity and compulsion, that behavior is called addiction.
What are the Symptoms of Stimulant Withdrawal?
When withdrawing from stimulants, the symptoms you experience will vary depending on how long you have been using and the amount you have been taking. Any co-existing mental health conditions should also be taken into consideration which is why it is important to get proper drug addiction treatment.
Stimulant drug withdrawal symptoms manifest very quickly after the stimulating effects of the drug have worn off. Physical symptoms during the initial stage of withdrawal can include: chills, dehydration, dulled senses, slowed speech and sometimes hallucinations. More severe in the case of withdrawal from stimulants are the psychological effects initially you will feel anxious, sad, agitated, perhaps paranoid and you will have intense cravings for the drug. After a few days, most symptoms ease but cravings become intense. Fatigue and depression are most prominent at this point and low mood can lead to suicidal thoughts. After a period of around ten days, the main symptoms are depression, sleep issues, and mood swings. Even after two or three weeks in some cases, depression and cravings may be prominent.
Knowing the symptoms can help you to quit using stimulants. Understanding that the things happening to you are biological and physiological due to withdrawal from a substance can help. However, there is a great risk of relapse if you do not undergo supervised withdrawal with the help of professionals and therapists who can support you through the process. You will need emotional and psychological support as you face things you may have been masking with drug use.
Consider Drug And Alcohol Addiction Treatment In Southern California!
Abstinence clears the substance from the body but psychological support, therapy, and counseling, as well as group work and one to one sessions with an addiction expert can greatly increase your chance of a safe and successful recovery. Risks of self-harm are high for anyone with a history of clinical depression and this is why it is wise for you to attend a residential rehab program. The withdrawal symptoms, such as cravings and psychological dependence can go on for weeks, sometimes months and our trained therapists here at Casa Recovery in San Juan Capistrano, CA can help you learn to cope with cravings, resist relapse and teach you to find ways to enjoy life without stimulants. Contact us today for more information.