Opiate withdrawal can be a difficult time for people who are dependent on opiates. The stage of withdrawal comes along with several symptoms that can be hard to deal with.
Here is a list of tips that can help make this transition as smooth as possible:
- Sleep: Getting plenty of sleep is highly recommended during withdrawal. It is important that you get at least eight hours of sleep daily. Sleep can be a very helpful break from the symptoms that may afflict you when you are awake.
- Be comfortable: Withdrawal can be very hard to deal with, therefore, experts recommend that during this period of time you are at a place you feel most comfortable in.
- Rest: Even when you are not sleeping try to relax and rest. Being alert does not really help at this stage, since it may cause the worsening of symptoms. If you choose to exercise, make sure to practice low intensity exercises. Remember, your body is going through a lot of transitions simultaneously, so when you have the chance, let your body and mind relax.
- Don’t go through it alone: Going through withdrawal alone might not be the best choice. Ask a loved one or a friend to help and support you throughout this period. Having someone close to you who can take care of you and understand you, can be significantly helpful. You will feel safer and more prepared to face your withdrawal. Experts also believe that withdrawal is highly connected with depression. Having someone close to you to support you may help to avoid symptoms of depression like loneliness and sadness.
- Drink a lot of water: Remember to hydrate your body by drinking plenty of water. Drinking water and other hydrating liquids can help rehydrate your body after episodes of vomiting, diarrhea and sweating.
- Keep in mind that this is temporary: Always remember that this stage is temporary, and that if you keep trying, you will soon get through it. Remember to motivate and reward yourself for your effort. It is important that you stay focused on your goal, which is too see yourself healthy again and fully recovered.
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Source: http://www.addictions.com/opiate/15-opiate-withdrawal-tips-to-help-you-through-withdrawal/
