PAWS Explained

Post-Acute Withdrawal Syndrome (PAWS) refers to a set of symptoms that occur after the initial withdrawal phase from drugs or alcohol. Unlike acute withdrawal, which lasts days to weeks, PAWS can persist for months or even years into recovery.

PAWS is your brain and body readjusting to life without substances—rebalancing chemicals, rebuilding neural pathways, and learning to function naturally again. It’s common, it’s temporary, and most importantly: it’s manageable. 

• Mood swings or irritability
• Anxiety and panic
• Depression or apathy
• Fatigue or insomnia
• Brain fog or poor memory
• Cravings
• Low stress tolerance
• Social withdrawal

Not everyone experiences all symptoms, and intensity can vary. What matters most is how you respond.

When you stop using substances, your brain enters a healing phase. It must rewire itself—rebuilding the systems that regulate mood, sleep, energy, and motivation. This takes time.

Substances artificially altered your brain’s natural chemistry. Now, your brain has to learn how to operate on its own again. PAWS is a sign of healing in progress, even though it may not feel that way.

PAWS can begin days to weeks after detox and may last 6 months to 2 years, depending on factors like:

• Substance(s) used
• Duration and frequency of use
• Co-occurring mental health conditions
• Personal health and lifestyle
• Quality of support system and aftercare
  

While that may sound daunting, the good news is: symptoms come and go—they’re not constant. Most people see improvement with time, consistency, and the right support.