The length and intensity of withdrawal symptoms vary depending on the substance used, the duration of use, individual health, and the presence of co-occurring mental health conditions.

Understanding what to expect can help you prepare, stay safe, and seek the right support.

1. What Is Withdrawal? ⚠️

• Withdrawal happens when the body adjusts to the absence of a drug or alcohol
• It can include physical, emotional, and psychological symptoms
• The body and brain must recalibrate after depending on a substance for function
• Severity varies greatly depending on the substance and usage history

2. General Timeline of Withdrawal 🕒

• First 24–72 hours: Symptoms usually begin within hours after the last use
• First week: Symptoms often peak during this time and begin to slowly ease
• 1–2 weeks: Many acute symptoms subside, but emotional and psychological effects may linger
• 1 month and beyond: Long-term symptoms may continue in some individuals (PAWS)

3. Substance-Specific Withdrawal Durations 💊

• Alcohol:
• Begins: 6–12 hours
• Peaks: 2–3 days
• Lasts: Up to 1–2 weeks
• Benzodiazepines (e.g., Xanax, Valium):
• Begins: 1–4 days
• Peaks: 1–2 weeks
• Lasts: Several weeks to months
• Opioids (e.g., heroin, oxycodone):
• Begins: 8–24 hours
• Peaks: 2–5 days
• Lasts: Up to 10 days or longer
• Stimulants (e.g., cocaine, meth):
• Begins: Within 24 hours
• Peaks: 3–5 days
• Lasts: 1–2 weeks (mostly psychological symptoms)
• Cannabis:
• Begins: 1–3 days
• Peaks: 2–6 days
• Lasts: Around 1–2 weeks

4. Post-Acute Withdrawal Syndrome (PAWS) 🔄

• Some people experience lingering symptoms for months
• These may include depression, anxiety, sleep issues, and mood swings
• PAWS is more common with long-term use of alcohol, benzos, and opioids
• Managing PAWS often requires ongoing therapy and support

What is PAWS (Post-Acute Withdrawal Syndrome)?

5. Managing Withdrawal Safely 🛡️

• Detoxing under medical supervision is safest, especially for alcohol, opioids, and benzos
• Medication-assisted treatment (MAT) can ease symptoms for certain drugs
• Stay hydrated, eat nutritious food, and rest as much as possible
• Seek professional or community support to stay accountable and encouraged

Final Thoughts: Withdrawal Doesn’t Last Forever 💪

While withdrawal can be uncomfortable and even dangerous, it's a temporary process. With proper care, support, and determination, you can get through it safely and move forward in recovery.

Each day you get through withdrawal brings you one step closer to freedom.