Addressing Post Acute Withdrawal Syndrome (PAWS)

Addressing Post Acute Withdrawal Syndrome (PAWS) is organized by ACTS Consulting, Inc.

Course Description:
“Most clients in treatment for substance use disorders (SUDs) do not immediately feel better after stopping their substance use. In a pattern unique to each client, symptoms related to substance abuse may be felt for weeks, months, and sometimes years. Clients may be affected by less intense versions of the acute signs and symptoms of withdrawal as well as by other conditions such as impaired ability to check impulses, negative emotional states, sleep disturbances and cravings. These symptoms may lead clients to seek relief by returning to substance use, feeding into the pattern of repeated relapse and return to treatment. Substance use disorder treatment providers can help clients avoid this cycle by helping them recognize and manage symptoms.” (Center for Substance Abuse Treatment, 2010).

Objectives:
Participants will
• Define post-acute withdrawal syndrome
• Review commonly used terms related to post-acute withdrawal syndrome
• Review how likely is and what contributes to PAWS 
• Review six commonly accepted interventions useful for substance use disorder treatment providers