One of the overlooked potential benefits when you stop drinking alcohol is weight loss.

Still, you might wonder: How much weight can you lose by not drinking alcohol?

It depends on how many calories you drink regularly. But any weight loss from ending alcohol consumption creates a ripple effect on your overall calorie intake, leading to additional physical and mental health benefits. You’ll likely see improvements from better blood pressure to improved sleep quality if you shed just a few pounds of excess weight.

Our JCAHO-accredited treatment center in Tucson, Arizona, is here to support you as you become alcohol free. The customized treatment options at Catalina Behavioral Health are evidence-based and effective.

We’ve helped hundreds of people quit drinking alcohol and seen what happens to your body – the transformation in mental and physical well-being is transformational.

We invite you to keep reading to learn how much weight loss you may achieve when you stop drinking and the other health benefits of cutting out alcohol consumption.

Cutting Out Alcohol: Connecting Calorie Intake to Weight Loss

Cutting out alcohol use is one of the best weight management methods. Because weight loss occurs when you burn more calories than you consume, removing alcohol can create a caloric void. Most people don’t realize the relatively high calorie count of their alcohol intake.

Our past client “Sophie” is a good illustration of how alcohol can have an impact on one’s weight. Before coming to Catalina, Sophie chased opioid painkillers with two glasses of wine each night to ease her anxiety.

At 250 calories per day, the wine totaled 1,750 calories per week and 7,000 calories per month. By simply avoiding unhealthy food choices and stopping alcohol, Sophie lost two pounds of fat in the first month of her recovery.

Always slightly overweight and with a family history of cardiovascular disease, Sophie used her new sobriety to jumpstart improved nutrition and improve her overall health. She lost another 15 pounds after leaving recovery and is now within the healthy ranges in all categories.

How Much Alcohol Does It Take to Lose Weight or Gain Weight?

Even small amounts of alcohol can have an impact on your weight, especially over time. One or two mixed drinks or bottles of beer might not sound like a lot. Still, they actually add hundreds of extra calories to your diet, without satiating your appetite.

Over a week, you could add approximately 2000 empty calories (depending on your alcoholic beverage choice), or just over 1/2 pound of weight gain, by drinking. In a month, that adds up to just over two pounds.

What Happens to Your Body When You Stop Drinking Alcohol?

When you eliminate alcohol intake, your body starts to heal more quickly than you’d expect if you have good liver function. Within 5 to 10 days after the initial withdrawal, you may notice a reduction in bloating and increased energy.

Over time, your liver, digestive system, and metabolism begin functioning efficiently. For many people, weight loss around the midsection is one of the early visible signs.

Alcohol Withdrawal Timeline

The flip side to the initial benefits can be severe withdrawal symptoms. The alcohol withdrawal timeline can vary, largely depending on how much and how frequently you’ve been drinking.

For most clients, the withdrawal symptoms start in 6 to 12 hours after they stop drinking. After 24 to 72 hours without alcohol, the symptoms of withdrawal can peak and then start to improve.

Alcohol Withdrawal Symptoms

You should not quit drinking without professional help, especially if you have Alcohol Use Disorder. The symptoms are generally mild for light to moderate drinkers. But those drinking excessive amounts of alcohol experience more severe withdrawal symptoms.

The only safe place to detox from alcohol is to do so under the supervision of a medically supervised detox center, like the program we offer at Catalina. Our staff provides a safety net by constantly monitoring each client’s vital signs and providing prescription medications to help cope with the side effects of withdrawal.

Below are the withdrawal symptoms. Once you read them, you will understand why it’s important to get professional help with the detox process:

• Anxiety or nervousness
• Irritable or moody
• Restlessness
• Sleep disruptions
• Headaches
• Stomach ache or nausea
• Vomiting (can lead to dehydration)
• Sweating
• Alcohol cravings
• Shaky hands or tremors
• Rapid heart rate
• High blood pressure
• Sensitivity to sounds and light
• Difficulty concentrating
• Delirium tremens (a severe condition that requires emergency treatment)

Detox at Catalina Behavioral Health also provides clients with access to medication-assisted treatment, which helps clients with alcohol misuse safely stop drinking.

Other Benefits You May Experience When You Quit Alcohol Drinking

You will consume fewer calories and your body will begin to lose weight when you quit drinking, as long as you make healthy food choices and eat sensible portion sizes. A trimmer body, especially around the tummy, is a common indicator of a longer life. The weight loss shares a direct connection to these other healthy benefits of quitting alcohol:

Heart Health Improvements and Slowing Heart Disease

Too much alcohol can strain your entire cardiovascular system, especially when you drink frequently or in large quantities. When quitting alcohol, your heart can improve quickly. High blood pressure can often be brought back to safe blood pressure ranges, and the risk of heart disease is reduced.

Studies even show that alcohol increases inflammation, contributing to irregular heartbeat and possible damage to the arteries.

Improved Blood Sugar and Diabetes

Many clients have been surprised when they learned how seriously alcohol can impact blood sugar levels and diabetes. Drinking alcohol leads to a series of spikes and crashes, especially when mixed in sugary cocktails.

Alcohol addiction affects the risk of developing insulin resistance and type 2 diabetes. When you quit alcohol and lose weight, you may regain control over your own health.

Lower Cholesterol Levels

With extended use, alcohol affects your cholesterol levels. Your liver and pancreas are vital in how the body processes fats and cholesterol. When you drink excessively, the digestive organs become overloaded and are unable to process fats efficiently. This connects to how your body reduces LDL (bad cholesterol) and supports HDL (good cholesterol), promoting a healthy heart.

Better Hydration

Alcohol is a diuretic that leads to dehydration. You’ll be better hydrated when you stop drinking alcohol, which has a positive impact on every system in your body. You’ll notice clearer skin, fewer headaches, and better joint comfort. You might also have more energy when you’re better hydrated.

Improved Immune System

Alcohol slows your body’s immune response, making you more likely to catch colds or bacterial infections. After stopping alcohol consumption, your immune system will rebuild. You’ll feel healthier, recover from injuries or infections faster, and be better equipped to fight the flu season.

Lower Your Stress and Worry

Some clients started drinking alcohol to relieve stress, but the relief it provides is short-lived. Once clients have quit, they find their anxiety and stress easier to manage. They eliminate the rollercoaster ride of alcohol addiction and gain emotional balance and a more positive perspective.

Better Sleep Means Mental Clarity

Alcohol consumption disrupts your sleep cycles, particularly rapid eye movement (REM) and slow-wave sleep, the deep sleep stages that support emotional regulation, memory, and physical energy. When you stop drinking alcohol, your sleep becomes more restful. The brain gets the rest it needs to provide you with better focus and decision-making.

Less Heartburn and Indigestion

Alcohol irritates the stomach lining and loosens up the valve that keeps acid from rising into the esophagus, a situation that leads to acid reflux. It can also slow digestion, causing bloating and discomfort. Stopping alcohol intake leads to better digestion and overall gut health. Most clients report feeling greater comfort after meals without drinking.

The Alcohol Addiction Recovery Journey Starts by Calling Us for Insurance Verification

The admissions department at Catalina utilizes an effective insurance verification process, which helps clients access the necessary treatment while also saving money.

The insurance companies have historically been reluctant to authorize mental health benefits; leave that entire process to our experts to ensure minimal out-of-pocket costs. We work with most major insurers and will work hard to help you get the treatment you deserve – affordably.

You Deserve Sobriety Today – Call Catalina for Support

You may have noticed some health issues – blood pressure, indigestion, or others – and suspected they resulted from drinking. Alcohol use disorder often means carrying extra weight, which can contribute to those problems. When you stop drinking, you can stop some of these health issues and feel better again, within about a week after stopping.

Our team of treatment professionals will assess your treatment needs and construct an evidence-based treatment plan tailored to your recovery goals. You’ll work with licensed counselors to address the drinking and face any underlying causes of the alcohol abuse (often trauma or a mental illness).

Call us today for support – you deserve a fresh start.

When you think of neurodivergence, or atypical brain function, you probably think of autism spectrum disorders, dyslexia, or an ADHD diagnosis. But is addiction neurodivergent? Not officially. Neurodiversity and addiction share some similarities, and researchers are looking into overlaps that may one day group substance use disorders as part of the neurodivergent spectrum disorder.

For now, though, substance abuse and neurodivergence are treated as closely related but separate disorders.

At Catalina Behavioral Health in Tucson, Arizona, we provide clients with an addiction treatment team that offers support for all substance use disorders and dual diagnosis conditions. The compassionate team at our JCAHO-accredited facility gives their full commitment to helping all overcome addictive behavior, neurodivergent person or not.

If you or a loved one is facing mental health issues, including substance use-related problems, perhaps worsened by neurodivergent conditions, we can help. This page will explain how we can help neurotypical people manage their mental health conditions and overcome drug or alcohol use disorders.

What Does It Mean to Be Neurodivergent?

Neurodivergence comes from natural variations in the human brain, affecting how people process information and relate to the world around them. Of course, autistic individuals are best-known example of this. But besides autism spectrum disorder, neurodivergent individuals can include those with:

• Dyslexia
• Dyscalculia
• Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD symptoms)
• Tourette Syndrome

Autistic people and others on the neurodivergent spectrum have executive dysfunction; substance abuse can make issues with impulse control, attention and focus, and emotional dysregulation even worse.

How Addiction Impacts the Brain and Executive Function

Addiction to drugs and alcohol can alter the brain’s chemistry and structure, especially in the areas of executive function.

Those brain regions support self-control, decision-making, and emotions. Repeated drinking or using other substances changes the brain’s reward system and makes it more difficult to resist cravings.

Neurodiverse People Might Be More Vulnerable to Addiction

Neuro-atypical individuals may become dependent on alcohol or drugs more readily than the general population. Their unique brains place them at an increased risk of using recreational drugs as self-medication to mask social anxiety, sensory overload, or a lack of coping skills.

ASD Symptoms and the Risk of Developing SUD

A diagnosis of autism can mean several social and emotional challenges that lead to increased risk factors for addictive behaviors.

For example, individuals diagnosed with ADHD or ASD may have more difficulty in communicating with others than their non-ADHD or non-autistic peers. Or, they may have uncomfortable, unwanted symptoms that lead to becoming easily distracted; they may view using drugs as an effective treatment in reducing sensory overload.

Linking an ADHD Diagnosis and Substance Use Disorders

ADHD strongly links to having an SUD diagnosis. A 2023 study by Bournemouth University showed that people with ADHD tend to be more impulsive than others. From their online behavioral addictions to drinking and drug use, their brains gravitate toward instant rewards.

Without receiving a proper diagnosis and treatment for both the ADHD and the substance use, the debilitating symptoms continue to become harder to manage. People struggle start feeling overwhelmed, causing a higher risk of future addictive behavior.

Dual Diagnosis Requires Comprehensive Mental Health Care

Dual diagnoses refers to those with a substance or alcohol use disorder having a second mental health condition. The other mental health disorder can be:

• Obsessive compulsive disorder
• Depression
• Anxiety
• Post-traumatic stress disorder
• Eating disorders
• Personality disorders

These present differently based on individual factors. A common thread is using alcohol, depressants, or stimulant medication to self-medicate, which provides short-term relieve for their symptoms.

Managing Co-occurring Conditions for Life

Many neurodivergent people live with co-occurring conditions like substance or alcohol abuse. These complications make recovery from substance use even harder than in their peers without autism.

Treating neurodiversity and addiction to achieve a more balanced life will also mean structuring coping tools around their learning differences.

Because of the strong relationship between neurodivergent people and bullying, autistic people and those with ADHD may also face factors like depression, anxiety, or trauma. We help them discover how they can create a safe space for healing and equip them with coping tools that address their unique risk factors.

Coping Strategies for Overlapping Drug/Alcohol Use Disorder and Neurodivergence

Our therapists help neurodivergent individuals gain the tools they need for addiction treatment and beyond clients at Catalina Behavioral Health learn how to:

• Engage in creating structured daily routines that work for them – during therapy and after leaving their treatment program
• Manage sensory experiences through deep breathing techniques, mindfulness meditation, and yoga
• Continue improving communication skills
• Form a support network of safe people to rely on after addiction treatment
• Find and engage with post-treatment community resources, including SMART Recovery, AA, or NA

Mastering these coping strategies can provide immediate relief from the triggers that lead to alcohol or drug abuse.

Beyond that, these techniques can help reduce the break the strands connecting neurodiversity and addiction to help people with lasting recovery.

Early Intervention for Neurodivergent Individuals

Early intervention helps avoid the need for addiction treatment through awareness campaigns before they develop substance use disorders. The connection between neurodiversity and addiction is clear.

When family members or friends see the signs of addiction, they should respond right away and offer the appropriate support. That can mean discussing concerns using non-judgmental, clear language, encouraging the person to get professional help for the addiction, or offering to lend an ear when they’re having a bad day. Even small gestures of support can be meaningful and make a difference.

The most effective early intervention depends on the person’s needs. Watch for these signs of increased SUD risk in people with ADHD, autism, and other neurodivergent conditions:

• Social isolation
• Engaging in risky behaviors
• Self-medicating sensory issues
• Starting use of recreational substances
• Mild to moderate depression or anxiety

These behaviors can be the first warnings when something’s amiss in your neurodivergent loved one.

Effective Addiction Treatment for Neurodivergent People

Catalina Behavioral Health believes in providing holistic treatment to meet the needs of each person who receives care at our addiction treatment facility.

Our clients have entrusted us with their mental well-being because we provide:

• Individualized care plans that matches each person’s needs. For autistic people, we also pay close attention to meeting their sensory needs.
• Neurodiversity-affirming therapy is delivered by skilled professionals who understand the connection between neurodiversity and addiction.
• Integrated mental health support to address co-occurring needs; we focus on both addiction and treatment of root causes.
• Adaptive communication supports, using visual aids or simplified language to communicate well with people with ADHD, dyslexia, or other neurodivergence.
• Proper levels of care, with inpatient services available to those in need of the most critical care and outpatient treatment options for those with good daily functioning.
• Evidence-based therapies, including individual, family, and group therapy, using proven strategies to break addiction.
• Predictable daily routines, which helps people with ADHD or other neurodiversities stay focused on therapy throughout the day.
• Insurance verification services, allowing us to ensure each client gets the appropriate treatments approved for their addiction, ADHD, or co-occurring disorders

Call Catalina for Comprehensive Addiction Care Programs Today

It is hard to end a drug and alcohol addiction, perhaps even more so for neurodivergent individuals. An addiction alongside ADHD or autism requires a thoughtful, well-planned addiction treatment plan – one like you will find at Catalina Behavioral Health.

Whether addiction should be classified as neurodivergent or not remains a topic that’s been almost endlessly researched and debated. Don’t wait for the researchers to put a fine point on their decision – the time to reach out and get the comprehensive care you need is right now.

Call our admissions office today; you’ll learn how you can overcome your addiction and better manage your ADHD or autism symptoms.

If you are enabling addicts, quotes about addiction recovery can help you put things in perspective and help you make the changes needed to protect your own well-being. Substance abuse impacts more than the person engaging in drug abuse or alcohol addiction. It can impact the mental health of loved ones, family members, and close friends – the enablers.

A Joint Commission-accredited recovery center like Catalina Behavioral Health can help a recovering person get the help they need. But your friend is better off in the long run when you learn to stop enabling their behaviors.

Our addiction recovery quotes can inspire you to make the changes you need to be a stronger support system for your loved one without enabling.

16 Drug Addiction Recovery Quotes to Avoid Enabling Family Members

These quotes can help you reflect and make changes. When you stop enabling, you will be better able to encourage your special person to enter a substance use disorder treatment program.

1) “What lies behind you and what lies in front of you, pales in comparison to what lies inside of you.” Ralph Waldo Emerson

Emerson’s words remind us that we find our true inner strength and resilience when we dig deep within. Recovery means focusing on internal growth during the recovery journey. This quote encourages honest self-reflection as the person works to seek inner truth in rehab.

2) “What is addiction, really? It is a sign, a signal, a symptom of distress. It is a language that tells us about a plight that must be understood.” Alice Miller

Miller’s quote discusses addiction as a distress signal being broadcast to the world. Understanding this can help family and friends provide compassionate support without enabling.

Remembering this can be crucial to helping those take those steps to lasting recovery and help prevent a relapse after treatment.

3) “Whether you think you can, or you think you can’t—you’re right.” Henry Ford

Ford discusses the power of a positive mindset in recovery. Encouraging belief in one’s ability to heal helps them believe they can start a new life. Those who support them can reinforce hope rather than express doubt.

4) “The secret of getting ahead is getting started.” Mark Twain

Twain’s wisdom reminds us that recovery begins when someone finds the inner courage to take a single step toward overcoming substance abuse. Overcoming the early hesitation and making small changes underpin progress.

5) “A journey of a thousand miles begins with a single step.” Chinese Proverb

Chinese wisdom explains the importance of persistence in recovery. The first step, asking for help, is the foundation for long-term healing.

6) “Addiction’s not about placating the bad dog—it’s about feeding the good dog.” Robert Downey Jr.

Downey Jr. suggests the importance of focusing on positive habits rather than merely resisting harmful ones. Showing support without enabling can encourage healthy coping mechanisms and offer relief from addiction.

7) “Fall down seven times, get up eight.” Japanese Proverb

This proverb shows how drug addiction recovery isn’t linear. Setbacks can – and often do – happen, but the key is getting back up afterward.

8) “If you can quit for a day, you can quit for a lifetime.” Benjamin Alire Sáenz

Sáenz’s quote shows how consistency helps create lasting changes. Each sober day is proof of possibility, and loved ones can frame restored mental wellness as small, achievable victories.

9) “The best way to find yourself is to lose yourself in the service of others.” Mahatma Gandhi

This wisdom from Gandhi reminds us that service and purpose can be powerful in recovery. With drugs, the pleasure gradually diminishes. But serving others is just a way of reclaiming control and lasting gratitude.

10) “In all codependent relationships, the rescuer needs the victim as much as the victim needs the rescuer.” Barbara De Angelis

De Angelis warns families and enablers about the dangers of codependency.

It’s helpful to know that setting boundaries means allowing addicts to take responsibility for their own healing instead of always stepping in to rescue them.

11) “The only person who cannot be helped is that person who blames others.” Carl Rogers

People facing mental health challenges, including dual diagnosis, may not like accepting responsibility for their behaviors.

Anyone with drug or alcohol use behaviors get a much-needed nudge when families stop serving as the scapegoat for their loved one.

12) “Practicing self-care isn’t selfish; it’s essential to your well-being.” Unknown

The entire process of dealing with addiction in the family, from the initial drug seeking behaviors until getting help, can be exhausting to loved ones. Taking care of yourself is more than helping you feel good; it’s also a good way to stay strong.

13) “You can overcome the things that are done to you, but you cannot escape the things that are part of you.” Megan K. Stack

Some behaviors come from trauma, past events too awful for the brain to process. While you cannot move backward in time to regain control of the past, people in therapy learn to make the trauma less controlling over their lives.

14) “One of the hardest things was learning that I was worth recovery.” Demi Lovato

Lovato has famously dealt with several mental health issues and has openly shared about her life. This quote describes how addicts must accept they’re worth saving – a sentiment you can reinforce without enabling the behaviors.

15) “First you take a drink, then the drink takes a drink, then the drink takes you.” F. Scott Fitzgerald

Fitzgerald struggled with alcohol use. He understood how the associated behaviors can compound, leading to a continuously worsening condition.

Helping your loved one understand this without enabling can be a tricky task. But it’s one worth considering.

16) “I understood, through rehab, things about creating characters. I understood that creating whole people means knowing where we come from, how we can make a mistake and how we overcome things to make ourselves stronger.” Samuel L. Jackson

Jackson was able to use his rehabilitation experiences to pour into his work. Following his advice offers a pathway to self-awareness that’s rare for an addict. But you can weigh whether the information he shares can help you with your enabling behaviors.

Why It’s Important to Avoid Enabling the Recovering Addict

Enabling behaviors often come from a place of love. But those good intentions can really just prolong a person’s drug addiction by providing the person facing challenges with a safety net that enables the destructive cycle.

It’s especially common to see this situation occur in parents of adult children, who have learned their folks will come through no matter what. They use that information to manipulate and get their way.

It can feel cruel, at first, to set and enforce boundaries to avoid enabling. However, you encourage accountability and self-sufficiency for the struggling person when you choose to make stronger boundaries.

Helping your loved one actually takes stepping back from behaviors that shield them from reality. Instead, you’ll start guiding them toward professional treatment and sustainable recovery.

Using Inspirational Quotes to Support Yourself and Your Loved One

Choosing drug addiction quotes to read every day can help you overcome all the challenges that come your way during your loved one’s recovery. They can provide you with motivation as you overcome the pain of loving someone with mental illnesses and addiction diseases.

As you continue to advocate for getting professional addiction treatment, you’ll read words that offer hope that the person struggling will continue to more in the right direction.

If your loved one feels ready to face their addiction, call Catalina today.

Panic set in every time I climbed into the car after my accident, no matter who was driving. Jaw clenched and eyes peeled, I stayed hyper-vigilant for any sign of danger. Racing cars on the freeway would cause my heart to race and my palms to sweat. I’ve even pulled over and gotten physically ill on the side of the highway. 

It took months for me to get behind the wheel again and even longer before I felt safe in the car, no matter who was driving. It was hard to break away from that constant vigilance. I found myself wondering how to get out of survival mode after trauma and worrying that I’d never heal. 

This collection of effective strategies is a great place to start. And, if you need more help, don’t hesitate to contact Catalina Behavioral Health. 

What is Survival Mode? 

The panic that sets in immediately following a traumatic event is normal. When this panic doesn’t go away, however, it can indicate you are living in survival mode. Long after stressful situations have passed, you find yourself hyper-aware – muscles tense, heart racing, and in a state of panic. 

Your body stops essential functions, leading to physical problems, and you may have trouble sleeping. You stop living for enjoyment and only live to survive. This is the reality of survival mode. 

Unfortunately, survival mode doesn’t always pass on its own. To truly heal, you’ll need coping strategies and the right support. 

Survival Mode and Chronic Stress

The constant worry that accompanies survival mode causes chronic stress. Physical symptoms including high blood pressure, a weakened immune system, problems sleeping, and digestive issues are common in chronically stressed people.

Chronic stress also has emotional impacts including memory problems, irritability, difficulty concentrating, anxiety, and depression. 

How to Stop Living in Survival Mode

Feeling constantly on edge, always ready to respond, is no way to live. In addition to being uncomfortable, survival mode symptoms impact your ability to live your life. You might be less inclined to spend time with friends, do things outside of work, or make time for what you enjoy. 

Anyone who has been stuck in survival mode knows that it’s exhausting. It takes a toll on your well-being and impacts daily functioning.

Try these healthy coping mechanisms to reduce prolonged stress and stop your trauma from controlling your life. 

Limit Exposure (When Possible)

For me, it felt impossible to avoid the panic that set in when I had to travel somewhere. Some days, I even walked 40 minutes to get to my therapist instead of taking the ten-minute drive because I couldn’t stand the thought of getting behind the wheel. 

While you can’t avoid your triggers forever, it can help to limit exposure as you are learning coping strategies for overcoming them. This might involve setting boundaries with people in your life, limiting media consumption, or avoiding certain situations. 

Get the Right Kind of Support

When I first struggled with nervous system regulation, I isolated myself from the people around me. Even being surrounded by loving people who wanted to help, I was embarrassed that something like getting in a car could affect me so much. 

With the right support, you won’t feel embarrassed. Catalina can connect you with a trauma-informed therapist who can make you feel comfortable sharing your experiences. 

Professional Support and Mental Health Treatment

I don’t think I would have been able to drive again, much less feel safe, without the help I received from my counselor. Talk therapy helped me discuss what happened to me, giving it less power. We worked on a plan that gradually made me comfortable behind the wheel again. I also worked with a psychiatrist to find a medication that relieved my anxiety and helped me sleep. 

Trauma treatment doesn’t look the same for everyone. Common therapeutic approaches for post-traumatic stress disorder following a traumatic event and related conditions include trauma-focused cognitive behavioral therapy, prolonged exposure therapy, and eye movement desensitization and reprocessing. 

Seeking professional help can also help with understanding survival mode. With the right evidence-based therapies, you’ll learn to break free from negative thinking patterns that often accompany surviving trauma. 

Finding Support from Friends and Loved Ones

Strained relationships are common following trauma, especially if you aren’t sharing what you’ve been through. Some people withdraw from the people who love them before giving them a chance to help. 

This stems from feelings of being misunderstood, embarrassed, or ashamed. The people around you will love you regardless of what happened and you have nothing to be ashamed of. Give them a chance to show support and compassion. 

Support Groups

Group counseling can be a safe haven and real gift for trauma survivors, as it is a safe place to talk among people who have been through their own struggles. Many are likely living in survival mode like you. Talking can provide insight into coping skills and things they still struggle with. 

Learn Coping Skills to Calm the Central Nervous System 

Living outside of survival mode following trauma starts with learning to regulate your autonomic nervous system. Relaxation techniques are helpful for stress management and induce a state of calm. 

A therapist can guide you in practicing these and other relaxation techniques when you are not panicking. With practice, it will become easier to induce a state of calm when you recognize you are stuck in survival mode. 

Deep Breathing 

During early practice, try lying down or sitting with your hand on your stomach. Breathe through your nose, hold that breath, then exhale. Some people use a 4-second inhale, 4-second hold, and 4-second exhale, while others exhale for longer than they inhale. Repeat this until you start to calm down. 

Grounding Exercises 

Grounding involves centering yourself in the current moment, turning your focus away from the inner panic you might feel.

For example, you might look around and try to name five things you see that are red or blue. Some people center themselves through activities like squeezing a stress ball or chewing a piece of gum. 

Our resource with dissociation grounding exercises offers more options as well.

Meditation 

During meditation, the goal is to clear your mind. Start by breathing deeply. It can help to have a mantra or word that you focus on. For example, “calm”. Say “calm” in your head, trying to focus only on that word and the way that your breaths fill your lungs and then exit your body. 

If you do find your thoughts wandering, don’t overanalyze or judge them. Instead, return your focus to your breaths and continue repeating your mantra. 

Progressive Muscle Relaxation

I like to start progressive muscle relaxation on my toes. Take deep breaths and focus on intentionally relaxing muscle tension in your toes, then your feet, and slowly up your legs. Continue up to your abdomen, chest, fingers, arms, and head, moving in sections. 

Other Coping Mechanisms to Overcome Survival Mode

Outside of learning to regulate the central nervous system following a stress response, healthy habits improve mental wellness and support the healing process. 

Practice Mindfulness

When you practice mindfulness, you are present in what you are doing instead of worried about anxieties or what may happen. Be completely engaged. During a walk in nature, you might look and listen for animals, hear your feet on the ground, and see leaves blowing through the trees. Tune into the human experience. 

Prioritize Self-Care and Physical Wellness

Sometimes, healing from trauma or mental health issues starts with caring for your physical body. Add self-care activities like positive affirmation or self-talk when you are brushing your teeth.

Make time for daily hygiene and be sure you are getting enough sleep. Proper nutrition, hydration, and physical activity also support physical and mental health. 

Practice Self-Compassion

No matter what you experienced that caused you to live in survival mode, it wasn’t your fault. Many trauma survivors experience shame or guilt. For example, you may blame yourself for being at the location where the traumatic event happened, even though you had no way of knowing. Realistically, fear should not dictate your life. 

Develop self-awareness of how these negative thoughts influence your stress response. Be as compassionate to yourself as you would a friend. You would never tell a friend it was their fault for being in the wrong place at the wrong time.

Through self-compassion, you can start to heal from what happened and shake off negative, unhelpful thoughts. 

Do Activities You Enjoy

When you are surviving after trauma, you are not living. Think back to the last time that you did something you enjoyed. It’s been too long, hasn’t it? 

Make time to sit and enjoy a cup of coffee or tea in the morning. Get together with a friend, make art, get out in nature, and do the things you love. Life is too short to let trauma stop you from leading a fulfilling life. 

Set aside time for what you love and commit to it. Even if you feel panicked when it’s time, do pleasurable activities anyway. 

Regain Control of Your Life at Catalina Behavioral Health

Whether you’ve recently experienced trauma or need help overcoming past trauma, you’ll find support at Catalina Behavioral Health. Don’t accept that constant stress is living. Instead, reach out for support, learn coping strategies to heal, and reclaim your life.  

At Catalina, you’ll work with a team of dedicated individuals who have the single goal of helping you accomplish more than just surviving daily life. You can thrive again.

Call us today to find out how our team can support you through this tough period. Healing is possible, especially with proper help! 

References

1. https://www.apa.org/ptsd-guideline/treatments

Probation alcohol testing is not identical in every case. The rules can depend on the offense, your written probation terms, local court practices, and the type of supervision you are under.

This article is for general educational purposes only and is not legal advice. If your paperwork is unclear, ask your probation officer or attorney.

If alcohol use is making compliance harder, treatment may help you stabilize your recovery

Drug and Alcohol Testing: What Are You Screened For?

Many people who are caught in the legal system will be subject to random testing to ensure that they comply with the terms of their probation. The necessity of abstaining from drug use is clear, but there may be a thornier issue when it comes to alcohol testing.

Alcohol isn’t an illegal substance. As long as you’re over the age of 21, there are no reasons why you can’t have a drink from time to time. But how will your probation officer feel about substance abuse, even if it is technically legal?

Here’s what you should know about your drug and alcohol testing as part of your probation conditions.

Will Court Ordered Drug Testing Include Alcohol?

Alcohol testing may be included, but it is not universal.

Some supervision terms prohibit any alcohol use, some focus on excessive use, and some programs use specific testing requirements based on the case.

Review the exact language of your conditions rather than assuming every probation program handles alcohol the same way.”

EtG Testing for Alcohol and Drugs

EtG testing looks for a metabolite of alcohol in urine. It is different from breath or blood alcohol testing, which are generally used to assess current or very recent alcohol exposure.

Depending on the cutoff used, the amount consumed, and individual factors, urine EtG may detect recent drinking for a longer period than direct ethanol testing, but it does not precisely show how much someone drank

How does it work?

EtG testing can test for alcohol metabolites in the urine, specifically looking for ethyl glucuronide. The metabolites are present well after the alcohol has left the body, which means that your probation officer can see a bigger picture of your substance use. In fact, they are able to see alcohol consumption up to five days after your last drink.

Your EtG testing might show alcohol has a slightly longer detection window depending on how quickly your body metabolizes alcohol and how much you have to drink. If you are a slow metabolizer or have several drinks, it could show up for longer.

Urine Test Results for Alcohol

Direct ethanol testing in urine usually reflects a relatively short detection window, while EtG testing can sometimes detect recent drinking for longer.

Because windows vary by test type, cutoff, and individual circumstances, it is safer not to rely on timing assumptions if your supervision terms prohibit alcohol.

Hair Follicle Drug Testing: Does It Show Alcohol?

Hair alcohol-marker testing is a longer-window method, but it should not be described as a simple yes-or-no test for a single recent drink.

Interpretation depends on the part of the sample tested, the lab method used, and the pattern of alcohol exposure being evaluated.

In clinical and forensic settings, hair markers are commonly used to assess alcohol use over time rather than immediate intoxication

Blood Alcohol Concentration: What’s an Acceptable Level?

https://catalinabehavioralhealth.com/addiction-treatment/dui-rehab/If your supervision follows a DUI or alcohol-related case, the relevant alcohol limits and sanctions may depend on state law, your sentence, and any abstinence or ignition-interlock requirements that apply to you.

Follow the exact language in your court order rather than assuming one BAC number applies to every probation case.”

When Will The Random Testing Monitoring System Call You?

Some probation or monitoring programs use random call-in or color-code systems, while others use different scheduling and notification methods.

The process you must follow depends on the rules of the court, probation office, or testing program handling your case.”

What If You Take Prescribed or Other Drugs?

If you take prescription medication, follow the reporting rules that apply to your case and keep documentation available if requested.

Screening tests can occasionally be affected by medications or other substances, which is why unexpected results are often reviewed with confirmatory testing and a legitimate medical explanation

Meet Drug Testing Requirements with Catalina’s Help

If staying sober while on probation has become difficult, treatment may help you build structure, support, and relapse-prevention skills.

Catalina Behavioral Health can explain your treatment options, discuss next steps confidentially, and help verify your insurance benefits. Coverage varies by plan and level of care.

References:

• Administrative Office of the U.S. Courts. (n.d.). Chapter 3: Substance abuse treatment, testing, and abstinence (Probation and supervised release conditions).
• ARUP Consult. (2024, August). Alcohol use biomarkers.
• Hadland, S. E., & Levy, S. (2016). Objective testing: Urine and other drug tests. Child and Adolescent Psychiatric Clinics of North America, 25(3), 549–565. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.chc.2016.02.005
• Kintz, P. (2015). 2014 consensus for the use of alcohol markers in hair for assessment of both abstinence and chronic excessive alcohol consumption. Forensic Science International, 249, A1–A2. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.forsciint.2014.11.001
• McDonell, M. G., Skalisky, J., Leickly, E., McPherson, S., Battalio, S., Nepom, J. R., Srebnik, D., Roll, J., & Ries, R. K. (2015). Using ethyl glucuronide in urine to detect light and heavy drinking in alcohol-dependent outpatients. Drug and Alcohol Dependence, 157, 184–187. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.drugalcdep.2015.10.004
• Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration. (2023, April 24). Mental health treatment: What does health insurance cover?
• Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration. (2024, September 9). Frequently asked questions about federal workplace drug testing.
• United States Probation and Pretrial Services, District of Arizona. (n.d.). Conditions of supervision.
• Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services. (n.d.). Mental health & substance abuse coverage.
• Center for Substance Abuse Treatment. (2006). Appendix B. Urine collection and testing procedures and alternative methods for monitoring drug use. In Substance abuse: Clinical issues in intensive outpatient treatment (Treatment Improvement Protocol [TIP] Series, No. 47). Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration.

A high-functioning addict is a person who struggles with substance abuse but still manages to hide the extent of the drug and alcohol use from others. They appear to colleagues, peers, or family members as the “life of the party,” with few suspecting their inner turmoil.

In fact, it is because they do maintain seemingly normal lives – going to work or school and able to maintain relationships – that nobody realizes they have a substance use disorder.

Our staff at Catalina Behavioral Health has worked with many high-functioning addicts, helping them cease their drug use or alcohol addiction. It’s not uncommon for those with a functional addiction to seek help only after something motivates them to do so.

Most of the time a high functioning addict doesn’t exactly hit rock bottom; rather, they receive DUI charges, fail a work drug test, or have some other severe consequences that raise the bottom. Our Joint Commission-accredited drug and alcohol treatment center can help them with breaking free of addictive substances when these negative consequences happen.

If your loved one is a substance abuser who remains high-functioning, we encourage you to keep reading. You’ll start recognizing the telltale signs that a high-functioning addict really does need professional help.

Defining Functional Addiction to Drugs and Alcohol

A functioning addict has a substance use disorder but can manage to maintain many daily responsibilities in life. Despite the hidden struggle with drugs or alcohol. they may have good job performance, handle day-to-day tasks, and thrive in social settings.

From an outward appearance, they are in control. But if they’d drop the mask, the world would see the truth. They lead a double life, with substance abuse hidden away from the world. Because they have a high ability to function, drug or alcohol abuse can be hard to recognize.

Trigger Alert: Functional Addict Is a Colloquial Term, Not a Diagnosis

When referring to “addict” on this page, we are solely describing a pattern of hidden substance use behavior. “Functioning drug addict” is a colloquial term. It’s not a clinical diagnosis. We do not use it to judge, demean, or define a person’s worth.

Recognizing the Signs of a High-Functioning Addict

Just because the functional addict has managed to abuse substances and hide it from the world, it doesn’t mean they haven’t developed a physical and psychological dependence on drugs or alcohol. It just means high-functioning addicts may hide the problem better than most.

Loved ones simply are not understanding or recognizing the signs of a high-functioning drug or alcohol addiction.

These are some mental and physical symptoms and behaviors common in functional addiction:

• Good performance in their professional lives
• Seemingly healthy family relationships and love lives
• Shifts in behavior or energy that seem out of character but are explained away
• Mood swings, even in a person generally considered easy-going
• Minimizing or joking about the substance abuse when asked by concerned friends or family members
• Highly intelligent people who rarely forget things start having moments of memory loss
• Using substances to cope with stress, anxiety, or pain
• Mild neglect of personal health, including poor sleep, weight fluctuations, and frequent illnesses
• Self-isolation from close family or friends
• Broken promises, especially if they’ve been reliable in the past
• Defensive responses when confronted about alcohol or drug abuse
• Taking out-of-character risks, such as driving while intoxicated
• Unexplained financial problems, even though they have a great career
• Developing tolerance – needing more of the substance to achieve the same effect
• Withdrawal symptoms when they try to stop using alcohol or drugs

Loved ones are often the first to notice these emotional and physical signs of a high-functioning addict. But what’s discussed behind closed doors is sometimes not enough to compel the functional addict to seek professional guidance.

The Myth of Hitting Rock Bottom

The high-functioning addict may know they’re struggling with addiction but believes they must hit rock bottom before they try to get better. But that is an extremely dangerous myth.

Waiting for rock bottom can lead to utterly devastating consequences: job loss, severe physical symptoms, damaged relationships, or overdoses. These can be avoided with earlier intervention for the alcohol abuse or drug addiction.

The fact is that anyone can reach out to learn about their addiction treatment options at any stage of the illness. Nobody needs to wait until they’ve lost everything; everyone deserves to receive addiction recovery. Don’t let your loved one fall into the “rock bottom” trap.

Co-occurring Disorders and Drug and Alcohol Use

High-functioning addicts may have a problem with abusing drugs or alcohol along with another mental health issue. You’ll hear mental health professionals call this co-occurring disorders or dual diagnosis. These are important terms to remember. Here’s why:

When highly functioning addicts have an additional mental health challenge, their mental health professionals must take a highly comprehensive approach. Restoring their well-being means treating the addiction and the second complication simultaneously.

Think about a time you got a good-sized cut scrape on your knee. To prevent infection, you washed the wound with antibacterial soap and then covered it with a bandage to keep it clean. If you only cleaned it without the bandage, bacteria could enter the wound. But if you bandaged it without washing it, you’d trap in bacteria. It takes BOTH actions to decrease the chances of an infected wound.

Now, apply that same logic to specialized treatment for the high-functioning drug addict. Successful recovery demands treatment for the drug or alcohol addiction and the other mental health concerns.

Breaking Free with Proven Addiction Treatment Options

Treatment of drugs or alcohol addiction is no different for a functioning addict than for anyone else. The label “high-functioning drug addict” doesn’t mean the person doesn’t need treatment. Any addiction can escalate to a severe addiction that puts them at increased risk of additional consequences.

Outpatient Care Is a Likely Solution for Less Problematic Drug Use

For many high-functioning addicts, outpatient treatment (either a partial hospitalization program or an intensive outpatient program) is a practical but nevertheless effective solution. It allows the person to receive professional help while continuing to keep up with the responsibilities of daily life.

Outpatient treatment offers high-functioning addicts the opportunity to receive the tools for long-term recovery and build health-supportive habits.

Medically-Supervised Detox to Cease Alcohol or Drug Use

The high-functioning drug addict should not attempt to quit alcohol or drugs at home. Quitting “cold turkey,” or the abrupt cessation of substance abuse, can lead to such severe withdrawal symptoms that it can mean extreme sickness or, in the very worst outcomes, death.

The high tolerance developed throughout drug and alcohol use means the person’s brain expects to feed the addiction constantly. When that doesn’t happen, withdrawal symptoms occur; this situation can happen quickly, sometimes within a few short hours. Many clients have turned to our addiction treatment center for detox after bad experiences at home, usually relapsing within a day due to feeling sick while detoxing in isolation.

In medical detox, our specially trained healthcare workers monitor your mental, emotional, and physical symptoms around the clock. Like other clients, high-functioning addicts may receive prescription medications to ease the pains of withdrawal. It’s especially likely when attending detox for opioid or alcohol abuse.

Therapists Help Reduce Stress and Change Negative Thinking

High-functioning addicted individuals tend to say they drink only to kick back and manage stress. Substance abuse is not a healthy way for most people to relieve stress. Using drugs and drinking alcohol regularly to self-medicate can lead to a higher risk of developing additional diseases.

Our licensed therapists give clients and their families the necessary tools to beat the addiction. They assist with addressing unhealthy coping methods and equip them with new, healthier ways to look at themselves and the world. Once the person has developed a more balanced outlook on life and stress-coping tools, they are better able to avoid alcohol or drug abuse.

The result of this effort is a more fulfilling life for the high-functioning addict and their loved ones. Clients spend a significant portion of their time working with an individual therapist, with occasional family support.

Peer Support – Another Key Component of Addiction Treatment

Besides traditional psychotherapy and behavioral health services, clients at Catalina participate in peer group therapy. These programs let high-functioning addicts join their recovery center peers to learn more about the reasons behind their substance abuse. They complete various activities, such as:

• Writing autobiographies or personal narratives and reading them to each other
• Writing strategies and plans for preventing relapse
• Using emotion wheels to identify and discuss emotions
• Role-playing difficult conversations
• Identifying triggers and coping skills to deal with them

The group therapy setting allows the high-functioning addict to put the knowledge discovered in individual/family therapy into use in a simulated environment. It helps them learn how to apply the tools of lasting recovery.

Community Support Groups After Treatment

While we’re discussing peer support, it’s also worth mentioning the value of local support groups in the community. Seeking 12-step programs, like Alcoholics Anonymous and Narcotics Anonymous, or the more scientific approach ofSMART Recovery, can help the high-functioning addict continue to avoid the temptation of substance abuse.

Those who have completed a more formalized drug and alcohol treatment program often enjoy these groups. The meetings provide a comfortable, familiar environment with the feel of peer groups. The main difference is that community group leaders are usually not treatment professionals but compassionate volunteers. The support comes from others who have a firsthand understanding of alcohol and drug use.

Health Insurance Covers Drug and Alcohol Addiction Treatment

You might wonder if your loved one’s insurance plan will cover the costs associated with treatment for high-functioning addiction. The answer lies in whether they have a diagnosis of Substance Use Disorder, per the DSM-5 manual. Under the Affordable Care Act, mental health disorders, including addiction, are covered.

If your loved one has already been diagnosed with addiction or a related mental health condition, our admissions team calls the insurance company to obtain pre-determination of benefits, ensuring they know the costs before starting therapy.

Sometimes, a high-functioning addict may not be currently diagnosed with a drug and alcohol use disorder. In that case, they should call Catalina Behavioral Health to take the next step. We can provide a professional evaluation, determining if the signs of a high-functioning addict meet the criteria of the formal addiction diagnosis.

With that confirmation, insurance is required to cover the mental and physical treatment expenses of addiction. Let our team go to work calling the insurance carrier.

We work with top insurers, accepting Aetna, Blue Cross Blue Shield, Cigna, TRICARE, and many others.

Hallie Was a High-Functioning Addict Who Found Hope at Catalina

‘Hallie’s’ friends and family laughed about her heavy drinking. Instead of admitting she was a high-functioning addict, they described her as lively and glorified her risk-taking. That ended the night she got a DWI after swerving into a utility pole. Despite minor injuries, it was a wake-up call for Hallie and her family.

Because she was a first-time offender, Hallie was ordered to get treatment for her addiction by the Pima County Drug Court. Hallie’s high-functioning addiction fortunately meant she had good medical coverage to apply to her treatment costs. The outpatient treatment center at Catalina allowed her to work to keep her insurance and receive addiction treatment after working hours.

Hallie’s therapist helped her discover that her addiction came from trauma. She had been mercilessly bullied throughout childhood, so much so that she used drugs and drank during her junior year of high school to fit in with the older kids. Hanging out with seniors offered her some protection from the bullies.

The drinking became more problematic, but Hallie managed it throughout her college career. Now, as a young woman with a stable job, she was forced to admit to being a high-functioning addict. After detox, Hallie’s therapists worked with her to reverse her negative self-talk and build her self-esteem.

She returned to drug court after completing addiction therapy; the judge dismissed her charges and offered a firm warning not to return. Hallie now has the tools for lasting sobriety and continues to excel in her career.

Call Catalina to Get Support for Ending High Function Drug Abuse

A high-functioning drug addict is at a higher risk of developing additional mental or physical illnesses. If you have noticed your loved one drinking or using drugs heavily to manage stress while somehow still balancing responsibilities, they need help to stop.

You or your loved one deserves to live a life without alcohol or drugs. Call Catalina Behavioral Health today to get help.

You’ve finally made the big decision to quit marijuana once and for all, but it may not be as easy as mind over matter. Many people are surprised to learn about the strange side effects of quitting weed, such as weed withdrawal nightmares. Marijuana affects the brain by interacting with cannabinoid receptors and altering neurotransmitters like anandamide, dopamine, and serotonin, which play key roles in sleep and mood. What are they, and how do you make them stop?

Weed withdrawal nightmares occur because your body returns to a REM sleep cycle without weed to influence your sleeping habits. Quitting marijuana can disrupt sleep cycles and lead to withdrawal symptoms, including nightmares. You dream more and often find those dreams more vivid and intense.

This is due to the rebound effect, where stopping marijuana use leads to an increase in REM sleep and more vivid or disturbing dreams. Possible treatment options include therapeutic and medical help, managing bedtime anxiety, and creating a bedtime routine.

Many people use marijuana to help with sleep or anxiety, but some continue using cannabis to avoid withdrawal symptoms. Catalina Behavioral Health knows how uncomfortable these early days of sobriety can be. That’s why we offer care at every level so that we can help you rest and heal. And it may help to know that risk factors such as starting marijuana use at an early age or having underlying mental health conditions can increase the likelihood of experiencing severe withdrawal symptoms.

Keep reading to learn more about how vivid dreams can impact you shortly after quitting weed.

Marijuana Withdrawal Symptoms and Vivid Dreams

Unfortunately, sleep might not be forthcoming immediately upon quitting weed. Quitting marijuana can lead to sleep problems, including difficulty falling asleep and disturbed sleep cycles. Many people rely upon the drug to relax them enough to slip beneath the surface of their sleep but quitting disrupts patterns that you may have become accustomed to. However, that isn’t the only issue.

When you do eventually fall asleep in cannabis withdrawal syndrome, you likely experience vivid dreams that feel incredibly real upon waking. Sleep disturbance and sleep disruption are common during cannabis withdrawal, often resulting in poor sleep quality.

Some people have a hard time differentiating between dreams and reality when they wake up. This can be disorienting at best and worrisome at worst. These symptoms can significantly affect a person’s ability to get restful sleep and function during the day.

Physical signs of withdrawal, such as night sweats, stomach pain, and shakiness, are also common. Night sweats often occur alongside sleep disturbances. Sleep disturbances during cannabis withdrawal can last for several weeks, and the severity of withdrawal symptoms typically peaks within 2-6 days after quitting.

But what causes these intense dreams when you give up a marijuana addiction?

The REM Sleep Cycle and Disturbing Dreams

According to the University of Michigan, the issue is that your marijuana use has hindered your body’s ability to enter into REM sleep. Marijuana suppresses REM sleep cycles, and when you stop using it, a rebound effect occurs, leading to an increase in REM sleep. When you try to head to bed without smoking weed, that REM sleep comes back to you in full force.

After a long absence, it can stimulate this sleep cycle and result in an improved ability to dream. This rebound REM sleep often causes strange dreams and vivid and intense dreams, which are common during cannabis withdrawal.

Not only do you suddenly start to dream more, but those dreams may be far more realistic and worrying than you have had in the past. Many people don’t dream of positive things anymore. Instead, it shifts to troublesome scenarios and anxiety-producing nightmares.

For most people, these vivid dreams and nightmares are temporary and subside within a few weeks to a month as the brain recalibrates, though nightmares may last for three weeks or more depending on your usage patterns and withdrawal severity.

The question is: what can you do about it if you’re tired of having those vivid nightmares if you want to stay sober and continue with cannabis withdrawal?

How to Mitigate Intense Dreams from Marijuana Withdrawal

Bizarre dreams are one of the most common symptoms of the withdrawal phase of cannabis use disorder. Other forms of therapy and intervention, such as behavioral and pharmacological treatments, may be considered for managing sleep disturbances.

Using cannabis or smoking pot to self-medicate sleep problems can lead to dependency and may worsen withdrawal symptoms. But bad dreams night after night limit a person’s ability to find true rest at night. Their uncomfortable symptoms might make them more anxious in daily routines and irritable from lack of sleep. Sleep disturbances can persist for at least two weeks or more after stopping cannabis, especially for heavy users.

Fortunately, you can do a few things to limit the likelihood of nightmares disrupting your sleep.

Get Help to Fall Asleep

Scary dreams might make it nearly impossible for you to drift off each night. Insomnia is likely due to worrying about what you’ll experience when you’re unconscious. Not to mention, insomnia is a well-known issue associated with weed withdrawal symptoms.

You should consult a medical provider if you think that you could use some help with your sleep cycle. A trained therapist may be able to refer you to a doctor specializing in this area with a non-habit-forming medication that helps you fall asleep and potentially stay there without dreaming.

It may not be a long-term solution, but it’s a good option right now to help you stay sober and get the rest you need to focus on other aspects of your treatment. You can always taper off this medication as your dreams fall back in line with what is normal for you.

These symptoms usually last about three weeks. It’s not listed in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual used for diagnosis but is prominent nonetheless.

Manage Anxiety Around Bedtime

Once you fall into the cycle of not sleeping in anticipation of vivid dreams, you might experience more anxiety as bedtime rolls around. In turn, this anxiety hinders your ability to fall asleep. Meanwhile, the anxiety also colors the types of dreams you’re prone to have in the few hours of shuteye you grab.

To minimize your anxiety around bedtime, think about the type of content you consume. Maybe you should think twice about watching that true crime television show or find a different time of day to watch the local news if you find it stress-inducing.

If all else fails and natural remedies don’t work, consider that you may need to seek professional help to get your anxiety under control. Keep in mind that you don’t want to continue self-medicating anxiety with weed.

Create a Bedtime Routine

Getting REM sleep is crucial for the body to function at its best. One way to set yourself up for success is to have a clearly defined bedtime routine you follow every night. This could mean that you light a candle and enjoy the flame for a little while. Maybe you make a gratitude list, pray, meditate, or journal.

Choose small items that bring comfort to you and are simple to put in place. The more barriers there are to activating your routine, the less likely you will be to stick with it. Sustainable practices will help you get through the evening hours.

As long as you’re following this routine, you are also less likely to return to marijuana use because it simply isn’t a part of the routine.

Learn from Cognitive Behavioral Therapy

When you’re introduced to treatment for cannabis cessation, one of the treatment modalities a clinician might start with is cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT). This therapeutic modality is designed to help you interrupt thoughts and feelings before they lead to actions. Why is it so important if you’re having these vivid dreams and nightmares?

Upon waking up from one of these dreams, your heart might be racing, and you want relief from the stress of the dream. It could be tempting to turn back to drug use, knowing that it gave you a solid night of sleep and lowered your overall anxiety.

CBT gives you the framework to think differently about your situation. You can wake up, take stock of your feelings, and then make a conscious decision to continue quitting weed.

Catalina Behavioral Health takes this approach alongside others to give you the tools needed to get past cannabis use once and for all.

Monitor for More Serious Withdrawal Symptoms

While nightmares tend to be the most common symptom of quitting weed, that isn’t to say that they are the only thing that could disrupt your sleep. For many people, insomnia plagues them until their body is used to unwinding without the pharmaceutical help of cannabis.

In rare cases, you may also experience psychosis in withdrawal. It is challenging to identify the difference between psychosis and a very vivid dream when you wake up.

This is why a sub-acute detox for cannabis is often the best move for clients who want to be on the safe side when quitting weed.

Effective Detox and Recovery Support for Cannabis Withdrawal

What does effective detox and recovery from cannabis withdrawal really look like for you? The positive news is that overcoming withdrawal goes far beyond simply stopping your cannabis use. When you’re dealing with those vivid dreams, nightmares, and sleep difficulties, you’ll find hope in taking a holistic approach that addresses your body, mind, and emotions together.

Your effective detox plan can combine the medical support you deserve with therapeutic interventions, ensuring you have the tools to manage those uncomfortable symptoms and reduce your risk of relapse.

Can Medications Help Manage Weed Withdrawal Symptoms?

In some cases, you may find that medications such as lithium or nitrazepam can help ease your symptoms and improve your sleep. Alongside any medication, therapies like cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) and contingency management can help you develop the healthy coping strategies you need, manage your anxiety, and stay motivated throughout your personal recovery journey.

What’s important for you to remember is that your detox isn’t only about getting cannabis out of your system: it’s about building a foundation for the lasting change you’re seeking.

With the right support and a comprehensive plan designed for you, you can navigate the challenges of cannabis withdrawal, including those vivid dreams and nightmares, and move toward the restful sleep and better well-being you deserve.

Staying Motivated and Focused in Recovery from Weed Abuse

Maintaining motivation and focus throughout the cannabis withdrawal process presents unique clinical challenges, particularly when anxiety, stress, and withdrawal manifestations create what can feel like overwhelming daily obstacles.

Establishing solid goal-setting milestones and acknowledging incremental progress markers can serve as powerful therapeutic tools to maintain treatment adherence and provide tangible reminders of your recovery journey’s advancement.

Providing Coping Tools and Support for Cannabis Cessation

At Catalina, we help by implementing clinically-proven stress management and anxiety reduction techniques, which are also a critical component of successful withdrawal management.

Daily support can come in the form of structured physical activity, therapeutic creative engagement, or meaningful social connection, and can provide essential coping mechanisms designed specifically to redirect focus from craving episodes and negative thought patterns.

It’s important to understand that experiencing difficult periods is a normal part of the withdrawal process, but surrounding yourself with positive environmental influences and maintaining focus on measurable progress can significantly impact your treatment outcomes.

Professional support networks, whether through family systems, peer groups, or structured recovery programs, can substantially enhance motivation levels and provide the accountability framework essential for long-term success.

By maintaining active engagement with these support structures, you’ll find yourself better equipped to navigate the complexities of cannabis withdrawal while keeping your therapeutic goals at the forefront of your recovery process.

Get Support to Put Down Cannabis and Sleep Better Today

Are you ready to start getting a full night of sleep without those pesky nightmares keeping you awake with a pounding heart and excessive sweating? Catalina Behavioral Health knows how challenging it can be to give up marijuana and walk through those early days of recovery and sobriety, which is why we offer help at every level of care.

You can start in our program with a sub-acute detox, where we will make you comfortable, keep you safe, and prevent you from returning to weed when uncomfortable symptoms arise. From here, you can move to residential treatment and intensive outpatient as it fits your needs.

Our enrollment team can answer all of your questions about quitting weed and enrolling in our program. Call us today to ask questions and verify your insurance benefits so that we can reserve a spot for you!

FAQs on Nightmares When You Stop Smoking Weed or Consuming Marijuana

References

1. University of Michigan. (2021, January 14). How to sleep if you’re trying to quit weed . Michigan Medicine.
2. Connor, J. P., Stjepanović, D., Budney, A. J., Le Foll, B., & Hall, W. D. (2022). Clinical management of cannabis withdrawal. Addiction (Abingdon, England), 117(7), 2075–2095.
3. Hesse, M., & Thylstrup, B. (2013). Time-course of the DSM-5 cannabis withdrawal symptoms in poly-substance abusers. BMC psychiatry, 13, 258.
4. Bidwell, L. C., Sznitman, S. R., Martin-Willett, R., & Hitchcock, L. H. (2024). Daily associations with cannabis use and sleep quality in anxious cannabis users. Behavioral sleep medicine, 22(2), 150–167.

Witnessing an overdose can cause panic. You may frantically find yourself wondering how you can help and whether your loved one will get in trouble for a drug-related overdose. Or, you may be wondering what you can do to save them. During an overdose, every second counts!

Does Arizona have a good Samaritan Law for overdose?

For Arizona residents, the Good Samaritan law provides legal protections for the person experiencing the overdose and the person seeking medical treatment or care. This means you do not need to worry about legal consequences when call 9-1-1.

The first thing you should do is get them help – and the second is to encourage them to take steps so the situation never happens again. Keep reading to learn more about Good Samaritan protections in Arizona, what to do when someone is overdosing, and encouraging your loved one to seek help at Catalina Behavioral Health.

What is Arizona’s Good Samaritan Law for Overdoses?

The Good Samaritan law for overdoses protects both the person overdosing and whoever calls for medical assistance. Under this law, neither person can be charged with possession of drugs, drug use, or paraphernalia following an overdose.

By offering legal protections, the goal is to reduce the number of overdose deaths caused by someone witnessing an overdose and not being willing to help.

This law only protects if emergency services are contacted. These protections remain in place no matter the result of life-saving measures.

Who is Protected by Good Samaritan Laws?

Good Samaritan laws protect the person who is overdosing, as well as the person who calls for medical attention. Most (but not all) states have some type of Good Samaritan act in place offering similar protections.

Arizona Good Samaritans laws for emergency care protect medical professionals administering aid in good faith from facing charges of negligence. For example, if a nurse or doctor were at an event and someone overdosed, they could administer aid without fear of legal consequences, regardless of the result of their efforts.

Who Isn’t Protected by the Good Samaritan Law?

The Good Samaritan Law does not protect a person who committed a crime not related to drug use or possession prior to their overdose. For example, they can still get in trouble for driving under the influence, causing harm to another person, or causing a car accident.

What to Do When Someone Overdoses

Opioids are a depressant of the central nervous system. They interact with the same control mechanism in the brain that affects respiratory rate. With an overdose, there can be so much respiratory depression that the oxygen supply is cut off. This causes loss of consciousness and increases the risk of physical injury or death.

Sadly, most of us know or love someone who has struggled with addiction. The longer it takes to get help, the greater the risk of severe health problems. So how can you help if you find a friend or loved one that has overdosed?

Recognizing an Opioid Overdose

An average of five people die in Arizona every day from drug overdose – an often preventable condition. Before you can help with an overdose, you’ll need to diagnose it so you know for sure what you are dealing with.

Some signs of an opioid overdose include:

• Difficulty staying awake or loss of consciousness
• Slow, weak, or no breathing
• Confusion and disorientation
• Dizziness
• Small pupils
• Greyish or bluish lips and skin
• Cool and clammy skin
• Decreased heart rate
• Gurling, choking, or snoring sounds

If someone has lost consciousness, try rubbing their sternum firmly with your palm. Call their name and try shaking them. If they are unresponsive, it also indicates they may be experiencing an overdose.

Providing Help

Many states have passed laws that require students to learn CPR before graduating from high school. If it’s been a while since graduating or you’ve never learned this skill, it’s a good idea to practice. CPR can be life-saving in many situations.

Administering Narcan can also be life-saving, as it blocks the opioid receptors and reverses the effects of opioid drugs. This life-saving measure is available without a prescription over-the-counter, from community organizations, and from health departments.

There are minimal risks of administering Narcan. Even if a person has overdosed and it is not the result of opioids, naloxone will not cause adverse effects.

If you need to administer Narcan, insert the nozzle into one side of the person’s nose. Gently pinch on both sides of the nose and press the plunger to administer the dose. If they do not respond within three minutes, administer a second dose.

What to Do After an Overdose

You should never leave someone who has overdosed alone. Administering Narcan reverses the effects of any opioids they have taken. As they regain consciousness, they may experience withdrawal symptoms.

Unsupervised, they may seek out additional drugs to limit withdrawal symptoms. They may take high doses to override the naloxone, resulting in another overdose. There’s also a risk of choking on saliva or vomit if they lose consciousness again.

While helping in the crisis is a great first step, it’s also important to encourage them to seek further help. An individualized, evidence-based treatment program like the ones offered at Catalina will help them understand the root of addiction and learn the skills so that they never put themselves (or you) in this position again.

Encouraging Your Loved One to Seek Help

Helping during a drug overdose is only half the battle. Addiction is a chronic, ongoing struggle. And, with the increased amounts of fentanyl found in street drugs today, struggling is more dangerous than ever.

Sometimes, overdosing can be a wake-up call for someone. It shows your friend or loved one what they stand to lose. For some people, unfortunately, even overdosing doesn’t encourage them to get help. This is where you come in.

Try to have an open, honest conversation with your loved one about treatment, free of stigma or judgment. Let them know that they are loved and if they decide to take on this journey, you’ll support them in any way you can. For more help with convincing your loved one to seek treatment, contact Catalina Behavioral Health.

Reaching Out to Catalina for Help Following an Overdose

When you convince your loved one to get treatment, you want to give them the chance to put their best foot forward. That’s where Catalina can help.

We use a personalized, evidence-based approach that leads to better treatment outcomes for our clients. We don’t just focus on getting them clean, we give them tools to maintain lasting sobriety.

Our convenient location in Tucson makes us accessible to residents all over the state. We also accept many forms of health insurance. Call us with your questions, to set up a tour of our facility, or to set up an intake appointment today!

References

1. https://pdaps.org/datasets/good-samaritan-overdose-laws-1501695153
2. https://www.azleg.gov/ars/13/03423.htm
3. https://directorsblog.health.azdhs.gov/new-campaign-highlights-the-life-saving-impact-of-naloxone-in-reversing-an-opioid-overdose/

Some people report lingering next-day effects after cannabis use, especially after higher doses, edible products, or use alongside alcohol or other substances.

People may describe this informally as a “weed hangover,” but symptoms and duration can vary widely from person to person.

For many people, mild effects improve within hours, while others may notice residual fatigue, dry mouth, nausea, or mental fog into the next day.

Keep reading to learn more about what to expect and when to reach out to Catalina for additional support.

What is a Weed Hangover?

People sometimes use the phrase “weed hangover” to describe lingering effects after cannabis use, such as feeling tired, unfocused, nauseated, or dehydrated the next day.

These effects may be more noticeable after high-THC products, large doses, edible cannabis, or cannabis use combined with alcohol or other substances.

Because product strength, metabolism, sleep, food intake, and tolerance all vary, there is no single timeline that applies to everyone.

Weed Hangover Symptoms

Possible next-day effects after cannabis use may include headache, dry mouth, fatigue, nausea, mental fog, trouble concentrating, restlessness, or disrupted sleep.

These symptoms are not specific to one formal diagnosis and may overlap with residual intoxication effects, poor sleep, dehydration, co-use of alcohol, or cannabis withdrawal symptoms in people who use heavily or frequently.

The timing of cannabis effects depends heavily on how it is used. Inhaled cannabis usually has a faster onset and shorter duration than edible products, while edibles can take longer to begin working and may last much longer.

Some people notice mild residual effects into the next day, especially after higher doses, high-THC products, or edible use.

Are Weed Hangovers as Intense as Alcohol Hangovers?

Many people describe next-day cannabis effects as different from alcohol hangovers and, in some cases, less physically severe.

That said, cannabis can still impair concentration, reaction time, coordination, and judgment, and some people may feel significantly unwell depending on the product, dose, and whether other substances were involved.

Factors That Affect the Intensity of Weed Hangover Symptoms

The onset, length, and symptoms of a marijuana hangover depend on factors like marijuana smoking habits, the cannabis strains consumed, THC content, consumption method, and overall physical health. Whether a person takes other substances or drinks alcohol with weed use also increases the risk of a hangover.

How to Manage a Weed Hangover

If symptoms are mild, supportive self-care may help while the effects wear off. Focus on rest, fluids, light meals, and avoiding additional cannabis, alcohol, or other substances.

Some adults may choose an over-the-counter pain reliever for a headache, but these products should only be used as directed and may not be safe for everyone.

Seek medical advice if symptoms are severe, persistent, or unusual for you.

Supporting Your Body with Hydration and Nutrition

Eating a balanced meal and drinking plenty of water can make all the difference in supporting your body through a weed hangover. Nutrient-dense foods will replenish nutrients, stabilize blood sugar levels, and provide energy.

Drinking plenty of water is also important, particularly because marijuana causes dry mouth and dehydration. Electrolyte-rich beverages can also help reverse the diuretic and dehydrating effects of cannabis products. 

Rest and Relaxation

Getting adequate rest when recovering from marijuana use can help relieve some cannabis-related negative consequences like brain fog while you wait out the symptoms of a cannabis hangover. If you are struggling with insomnia or feel restless, try relaxing activities like taking a bath or shower with hot water, deep breathing, calm music, or meditation.

Light Physical Activity

Being physically active might seem like the last thing you want to do when recovering from excessive cannabis consumption. However, yoga, stretching, or a short walk can help pump blood through your body and chase away mental fog and boost energy levels. It also produces endorphins, which are beneficial for your mood.

Can Medication Fix a Cannabis Hangover?

You can take an over-the-counter medication like ibuprofen for body aches or Tylenol for headaches. However, you should take these medications as prescribed or indicated on the label if OTC. If you are worried about medication interactions, be sure to consult with your healthcare provider.

Try Some Tea

Some people find warm fluids such as tea soothing when they feel nauseated or unsettled.

Ginger may help some people with nausea, but responses vary, and it should not be treated as a substitute for medical care if symptoms are significant.

Preventing Weed Hangovers

The most reliable way to avoid next-day cannabis effects is not to use cannabis.

For people who do use it, risk may be lower when they avoid large doses, avoid combining cannabis with alcohol or other substances, pay attention to product strength, and give edible products time to take effect before taking more.

What if I Have a Hard Time Abstaining from Marijuana?

If cutting back or stopping cannabis feels difficult, that does not mean you have failed.

Some people develop cannabis use disorder, especially when use becomes frequent or begins at a younger age.

Signs can include using more than intended, difficulty cutting down, cravings, and continued use despite problems at work, school, home, or in relationships.

Treatment Options for Marijuana Use and Abuse

Treatment may be helpful when cannabis use is affecting daily functioning, mental health, work, school, motivation, or relationships.

Depending on the person’s needs, care may include assessment, therapy, structured outpatient treatment, residential inpatient treatment, or treatment for co-occurring mental health concerns, and support with reducing or stopping use.

For some heavy or frequent users, a professionally supervised evaluation for detox can help determine the safest and most appropriate next steps.

Reach Out to Catalina to Discuss Treatment Options Today

Not sure whether your cannabis use is occasional, problematic, or part of a larger mental health concern?

Our team can help you understand your options, answer questions about treatment, and verify insurance benefits.

FAQs on Marijuana Hangovers and Effective Remedies

References:

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (2024, February 15). Cannabis and brain health. https://www.cdc.gov/cannabis/health-effects/brain-health.html

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (2024, December 5). Understanding your risk for cannabis use disorder. https://www.cdc.gov/cannabis/health-effects/cannabis-use-disorder.html

Kelly, B. F., & Patel, D. R. (2023). Cannabinoid toxicity. In StatPearls. StatPearls Publishing. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK482175/

National Institute on Drug Abuse. (2024, September 24). Cannabis (marijuana). U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, National Institutes of Health. https://nida.nih.gov/research-topics/cannabis-marijuana

Patel, J., Marwaha, R., & Lippmann, S. (2024). Cannabis use disorder. In StatPearls. StatPearls Publishing. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK538131/

U.S. Food and Drug Administration. (2025, August 14). Acetaminophen. https://www.fda.gov/drugs/information-drug-class/acetaminophen

U.S. National Library of Medicine. (2023, August 5). Dehydration: MedlinePlus Medical Encyclopedia. https://medlineplus.gov/ency/article/000982.htm Yale Medicine. (n.d.). Cannabis/marijuana use disorder. https://www.yalemedicine.org/conditions/marijuana-use-disorder

If you have been a heavy user of marijuana, currently quitting weed, first let us congratulate you on making a wise decision and one well worth pursuing for your overall health and happiness.

But now, you may be coping with cannabis withdrawal symptoms and ask, does marijuana cause night sweats? Night sweats are not as well-known as other symptoms, but managing them might require the help of a medical detox specialist.

Sweating during marijuana withdrawal is linked to the body’s disrupted thermoregulation system and the nervous system’s recalibration. Psychological symptoms are also common, involving changes in the brain and central nervous system.

Catalina Behavioral Health can support you during every phase of your recovery journey, starting with a safe medical detox. Our team can guide you through the uncomfortable withdrawal symptoms and provide counseling, guidance, and medical assistance. Seeking support is important for managing the impact of withdrawal on daily life.

Our entire team at our Tucson office specializes in treating substance abuse and related mental health disorders.

Learn how you can stop smoking weed comfortably and safely by choosing the help of treatment professionals who can help you experience a safe and effective recovery process.

What Causes Cannabis Withdrawal Night Sweats?

It’s not uncommon to experience night sweats during withdrawal from marijuana, but it still seems to be an infrequently discussed topic. If you’re trying to quit marijuana, know that you’re not alone in these symptoms.

So, what causes night sweats when withdrawing from marijuana abuse? When someone suddenly stops smoking cannabis, the body starts to eliminate tetrahydrocannabinol, or THC, the marijuana’s psychoactive compound. The process often leads to excessive sweating, especially at night, when body temperature naturally increases to facilitate the body’s sleep cycle.

Managing night sweats professionally is important. The situation leads to temporary sleep loss. When you experience difficulty sleeping, it can cause mood swings. That can lead to less resolve to stay clean and sober. A professional detox center will keep you safe and comfortable during THC withdrawal.

Marijuana use can have adverse effects, including negative impacts on the brain, central nervous system, and daily life. THC binds to cannabinoid receptors (CB1) in the brain, and prolonged use can desensitize these receptors. THC can also interact with the hypothalamus and temporarily reset the body’s thermostat, causing sweating. The body’s endocannabinoid system plays a critical role in thermoregulation and neural balance, and chronic marijuana use can disrupt this system.

The Endocannabinoid System: How Marijuana Affects Your Body’s Regulation

The endocannabinoid system (ECS) is a complex network within your body that helps regulate essential functions like mood, appetite, sleep, and, crucially, body temperature.

When you use marijuana, the active compounds in cannabis interact with the ECS, particularly the CB1 and CB2 receptors, altering the way your body maintains balance. This interaction can bring about the desired effects of marijuana, such as relaxation or pain relief, but it also sets the stage for withdrawal symptoms when you stop using the drug.

Regular marijuana use can cause your body to adapt to the presence of THC, the main psychoactive component in cannabis. Over time, this adaptation can lead to dependence, meaning your body relies on marijuana to maintain its internal equilibrium.

When you quit smoking weed or using it in other forms, your ECS must readjust, which can trigger a range of uncomfortable symptoms. Many marijuana users report excessive sweating and night sweats during withdrawal, as the body’s temperature regulation is temporarily disrupted. This is a direct result of the ECS struggling to regain its natural balance without the influence of THC.

Do People Experience Withdrawal Effects from Marijuana Differently?

Withdrawal symptoms can vary widely from person to person. Some may experience only mild discomfort, while others face significant challenges such as insomnia, stomach pains, mood swings, and anxiety. Psychological symptoms like vivid or disturbing dreams and nightmares from weed withdrawal are also common, as the brain’s chemistry recalibrates. These symptoms can be distressing, but it’s important to remember that they are usually part of a temporary phase as your body adjusts.

Individual factors play a big role in the severity and duration of marijuana withdrawal. Light users or those with a faster metabolism may notice only mild symptoms, while heavy or long-term users might experience more intense and prolonged effects. Your overall health, frequency of marijuana use, and even your unique body chemistry all influence how you experience withdrawal.

In some cases, symptoms like profuse sweating or severe insomnia can lead to dehydration or other health concerns. If you find yourself struggling with severe symptoms or if you’re worried about your health, it’s essential to seek medical attention from a licensed physician or healthcare provider.

A medical professional can help you manage both the physical and psychological symptoms of marijuana withdrawal, ensuring your safety and comfort throughout the process.

Small Steps to Take When Quitting Marijuana Can Add Up to a Big Difference

Support is available, and you don’t have to go through withdrawal alone. Reaching out to friends, family, or a support group can make a significant difference. Engaging in physical activity, such as walking, yoga, or gentle exercise, can help your body recover and reduce uncomfortable symptoms. Relaxation techniques like deep breathing or meditation can also ease anxiety and improve sleep quality.

Remember, marijuana withdrawal is a temporary phase. With the right support and guidance, your body’s endocannabinoid system will gradually return to its natural state, and symptoms like night sweats, mood swings, and sleep disturbances will subside.

By understanding how marijuana affects your body’s regulation and taking proactive steps to care for your health, you can successfully navigate withdrawal and move forward toward lasting recovery.

What are Other Common Cannabis Withdrawal Symptoms?

During marijuana withdrawal, night sweats may not be the only challenge. Other common withdrawal symptoms that may occur as your body adjusts to the lack of cannabis use include restlessness, tremors, fever, and abdominal pain.

Collectively, these physical and psychological symptoms are called Cannabis Withdrawal Syndrome, a term recognized in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5). Most physical symptoms of withdrawal, including night sweats, typically peak between day 2 and day 10 after cessation.

Most physical symptoms usually subside within a month or two as the body adjusts, but in severe cases or for heavy users, night sweats can last for several weeks and may persist for up to six months. In severe cases, professional intervention may be required.

Psychological Symptoms of the Marijuana Withdrawal Process

Here are some of the possible psychological and emotional symptoms of weed withdrawal:

• Irritability and sharp mood swings
• Angry outbursts
• Restlessness
• Developing depression or low mood
• Sleep disturbances or sleep disorders
• Nightmares
• Difficulty concentrating
• Vivid and disturbing dreams
• Decreased appetite
• Strong urges or craving for smoking pot again

The battle with addiction doesn’t end the moment you stop smoking marijuana. These psychological symptoms arise from your street marijuana or medical cannabis dependency and can be very challenging to endure.

In particular, weed withdrawal nightmares and a lack of sleep have often led to relapse for clients we have helped overcome cannabis dependency at Catalina.

Physical Symptoms of Marijuana Withdrawal

Marijuana withdrawal symptoms can be physical as well as the psychological addiction symptoms listed above. These are physical reactions to withdrawal and may include:

• Headaches
• Nausea and digestive issues
• Vomiting
• Stomach pains
• Excessive sweating
• Shakiness or tremors
• Chills due to disturbances in temperature regulation
• Night sweats (as we’ve already covered)

In rare cases, night sweats can be a prodromal symptom of Cannabinoid Hyperemesis Syndrome (CHS) following chronic heavy use of marijuana. CHS is characterized by early morning nausea, abdominal discomfort, and sweating, and it may progress to intense cyclical vomiting. Severe dehydration can result from excessive sweating during withdrawal, so monitoring fluid intake is important.

Weed is indeed legal in Arizona. Still, marijuana addiction is a considerable problem, and cannabis abuse can cause physical dependence, making it hard to quit.

When Do Marijuana Withdrawal Symptoms Start and Finish?

Marijuana withdrawal symptoms usually start within 24 to 72 hours of the last time smoking weed. Many people report that the first week of quitting marijuana is particularly challenging but improves with time. These emotional and physical symptoms, including night sweats, often peak in their severity between day 2 and day 10 after last stopping cannabis intake.

The duration and severity of withdrawal symptoms, such as night sweats, can vary depending on individual metabolism.

Some symptoms, like night sweats, may last for several weeks and can persist for up to six months in some cases, especially for heavy users. Some clients at Catalina have reported that symptoms can persist for even weeks after quitting. And the psychological aspects of dependence on weed can last for several weeks or even months, depending on the person and the form of support enlisted.

Seek Professional Medical Advice When Quitting Weed

Marijuana users with a goal of quitting cannabis for good should seek medical advice. The night sweats and other withdrawal symptoms are usually mild to moderate in intensity. However, some experience withdrawal symptoms that last for longer or can be very intense.

Seeking support from healthcare professionals is important for managing withdrawal symptoms effectively. In severe cases, night sweats and other withdrawal symptoms may require medication or professional intervention for proper management.

A medical doctor or mental health professional will guide you in eliminating marijuana dependence safely. They’ll keep an eye on both your emotional and physical health.

Erika Came to Catalina After a Cannabis Detox at Home Went Wrong

‘Erika’ came to Catalina Behavioral Health unsure whether she’d make it through the first days. She used medical cannabis frequently to take the edge off her migraines. When she realized how well it worked, she started smoking weed more often, just because she enjoyed how it made all her minor aches and pains go away.

Soon, though, she became dependent on it; smoking pot began impacting her ability to meet her responsibilities to her children. She was often late to work, missed paying the rent on time, and couldn’t focus on being their mom.

She tried detoxing at home and “went cold turkey.” Within a few days, she had night sweats, a common symptom. Another common symptom, nausea, also acted up, worsening the sleeplessness and making Erika feel sick and dizzy. Within 5 days of her attempt at quitting weed, Erika gave up and started smoking again.

She knew she needed to do better for her kids and learned that Catalina Behavioral Health accepted her BCBS insurance with only a minor co-pay. She arranged for her children to stay with her mother and went through an inpatient program at our center. Afterward, she started outpatient therapy and resumed her nightly routine with her children.

The doctor at Catalina consulted with her migraine specialist; with proper medication management, Erika’s migraines stopped. She learned stress management tools in therapy since stress was a trigger for both the migraines and smoking marijuana.

Since her time at Catalina, Erika has completed her online degree and started a great job to better support her children.

What Chronic Users of Cannabis Can Expect at a Recovery Center

A treatment center like Catalina Behavioral provides emotional support during the earliest phases of addiction recovery. Then, a team of qualified substance abuse treatment professionals will help you understand and confront your addiction, opening you up to living a clean, sober life.

Here is a general overview of what you can expect at most treatment clinics:

Admission and Initial Consult

Whether using street weed, medical marijuana, or other drugs, detox starts with an intake appointment and assessment. A clinician will discuss your addiction and note any concerning behavioral signs or patterns, then consult with the doctor. They also assess your mental and physical readiness for the detox process. You are officially on the way to quitting weed.

Starting a Safe, Supportive Marijuana Withdrawal Process

By the time you finish admissions, it has possibly been several hours since your last marijuana use. As you move to the supervised medical detox setting, you may feel the first pangs of weed withdrawal.

You will be continuously monitored by a specially-trained staff whose primary directive is to keep you safe and motivate you to continue the weed withdrawal with minimal discomfort. Most physical symptoms experienced during this period are temporary physical reactions to withdrawal, such as increased sweating, and typically subside within a short timeframe for lighter users.

Monitoring for severe dehydration is important due to excessive sweating that can occur as part of these physical reactions.

Managing Weed Withdrawal Symptoms

If symptoms persist or worsen, the mental health professional will prescribe certain FDA-approved medicines to minimize them. Besides offering medications during the worst of weed withdrawal, we will use a holistic approach to your care.

Withdrawal can cause significant discomfort, including intense sweating and disrupted body temperature regulation. Seeking support from healthcare professionals and loved ones is crucial to help manage these symptoms and ensure proper monitoring and treatment options during this period.

We will ensure you drink plenty of water to help support your wellness and help release toxins. We’ll also offer you a balanced diet (and avoid junk food) to minimize any nausea or stomach issues you may experience.

If you need a distraction during marijuana withdrawal, we can teach you to do deep breathing or visualization exercises to keep your mind off quitting weed. Finally, our team will create a calm environment where you can rest, even if you still struggle with night sweats and body temperature changes.

Individual Counseling and Group Therapy Sessions

As you transition out of detox and into either inpatient or outpatient treatment, you’ll receive customized therapies to help change your behaviors and teach you better coping skills. You’ll discover why you started smoking weed and find the best ways to stop using marijuana for good.

Psychotherapy and behavioral services are among the key factors in overcoming marijuana addiction and enjoying lasting recovery.

Planning for Sobriety

Before leaving our Arizona recovery center, you will develop a personal roadmap guiding you away from triggers and temptations and toward a healthier life. You will be prepared to attend support groups weekly and avoid the negative circumstances that led you to marijuana dependency.

Connect with Catalina for Marijuana Detox and Recovery Support

Those struggling with marijuana withdrawal symptoms, like night sweats, do not need to suffer. Seeking treatment at a treatment and detox center can help alleviate the worst of the pain and help you stay on track to have a healthier life in the future.

Catalina Behavioral Health accepts the most popular health insurance providers, and our admissions team can confidentially verify insurance coverage and make sure you get the most out of your benefits.

If you are ready to make the transformation and leave smoking weed in your past, there is no better day to start than today. Make a free and confidential call to Catalina Behavioral Health now.