Managing withdrawal

Stopping drug use can have unpleasant physical and emotional side effects, which may may affect the whole body.

The most common psychological symptoms are: irritability, urges to use, anxiety, depression, anger, and confusion. The most common physical symptoms are: sleep problems, restlessness, loss of appetite, tremors, night sweats, and diarrhoea.

These symptoms are a reason why people find it hard to stop using drugs. They may not succeed the first time, but their chances will be much better if they have your support.

People who use drugs often do not eat well.

Encouraging and providing a healthy diet; fresh fruit, vegetables and lots of protein, can help improve physical and mental health. They may find natural therapies, such as rongoa Māori, enhance their wellbeing and commitment to self-care and withdrawal.

This is most important when they are going through a difficult time.

Successes may be as simple as achieving a drug-free day, eating well, or exercising. It can help to encourage your loved one to do other activities to take their mind off the withdrawal symptoms, including listening to music, watching TV, downloading a movie, walking, swimming, or bathing. It can be helpful to do these things with them.

Talk to your loved one about the reasons they decided to stop using drugs, as they may feel overwhelmed and begin to lose their determination.

This can help people remain clear about why they are stopping, when the one thing that will make them feel better right away is using the drug they are addicted to.

Remind them of how far they have come, and that withdrawal will not last forever.