Addiction withdrawal

Withdrawal happens when a person who has become dependent on a substance stops using it or cuts back. 

Substance dependence and substance use disorders are health conditions, and withdrawal symptoms can happen when you stop or reduce alcohol or other drug use.

Reducing or stopping alcohol or other drug use can be a positive step for your health, relationships and daily life, especially when you have the right support.

When you stop using alcohol or another drug after heavy or ongoing use, your body and brain need time to adjust. This can cause physical and emotional symptoms. These are withdrawal symptoms. 

Withdrawal symptoms are different depending on the substance. These symptoms can make daily activities more difficult for some time. 

Substances that can cause withdrawal symptoms include:

• some medicines, such as opioids or benzodiazepines (for example, diazepam and temazepam)
• illicit (illegal) drugs
• alcohol
• nicotine, for example through smoking and vaping

Some behaviours, such as gambling and online gaming are also addictive. This article is about withdrawal from alcohol and other drugs.

Withdrawal symptoms can be different for different people. They can be mild or severe. Knowing the symptoms can make quitting easier for you. It can also make it easier for the people who are supporting you.

Your withdrawal symptoms will depend on:

• the type of substance you have been using
• how long you have used it
• your physical health
• your mental and emotional state
• the withdrawal process used

Withdrawal symptoms can include:

• cravings (strong urges to use substances)
• problems with sleep
• irritability or agitation
• feeling restless
• trouble concentrating
• mood changes
• feeling depressed or anxious

Physical symptoms can include:

• headaches
• aches and pains
• nausea, vomiting or diarrhoea
• sweating
• tremors or shaking

Severe withdrawal symptoms can include:

• psychosis
• confusion
• disorientation
• seizures

Withdrawal symptoms can last for a few days or weeks. Cravings can last longer.

For many substances, it’s important to get medical support when you are quitting. It may be unsafe to suddenly stop using some substances.

Your doctor or pharmacist can provide advice and support for quitting smoking or vaping or other substances to increase your chance of success.

How serious can withdrawal symptoms be?

Withdrawal symptoms can range from mild to life-threatening depending on the substance. 

Withdrawal from nicotine can cause strong cravings, irritability and mood swings. It usually peaks within the first 24 to 72 hours and may last 2 to 4 weeks. Other substances can cause serious complications and may require urgent medical treatment and monitoring. 

You should speak to your doctor or an alcohol and other drug treatment service if you are withdrawing from using:

• alcohol
• GHB (gamma hydroxybutyrate), also known as fantasy, liquid ecstasy or liquid E
• benzodiazepines

Withdrawal symptoms from these substances can be life-threatening.

Treatment for withdrawal symptoms depends on the substance you are withdrawing from and how severe your symptoms are.

Where can I go for withdrawal treatment?

There are public and private services that provide withdrawal programs. The aim of withdrawal management is to:

• treat the symptoms of withdrawal
• prevent complications
• plan follow-up treatment
• support you to help prevent returning to substance use (relapse) 

You can take part in a withdrawal program:

• at home
• in a residential ('detox') unit
• in a hospital

A safe and supportive place is important when going through withdrawal. Trying to stop without medical or professional support can be unsafe and may make it more likely that a person returns to substance use. More serious withdrawal symptoms may need medical care and monitoring to stay safe.

Seek help from your doctor or an alcohol and other drug treatment service. Support from friends or family can also help.

If you are supporting someone through withdrawal, talk to a doctor or an alcohol  and other drug service before starting.

It's also important to look after yourself when supporting someone with substance dependence or a substance use disorder.

This includes:

• eating and sleeping well
• exercising
• seeing friends
• taking a break when you need one

For more information about caring for someone, vist Carer Gateway (Opens in new tab), or call 1800 422 737.

Withdrawal is only the first step in treatment. Ongoing support can help you stay well, reduce the chance of returning to substance use and work towards your recovery goals.

After withdrawal, support may include:

• medicines to help prevent return to substance use (relapse) and manage cravings
• counselling or other psychosocial support
• support groups such as Alcoholics Anonymous (AA) (Opens in new tab) or Narcotics Anonymous (NA) (Opens in new tab)

Many people find that combining withdrawal treatment with ongoing support gives them the best chance of long-term recovery.

The Alcohol and Drug Foundation (Opens in new tab) has information about alcohol and other drug use and withdrawal and how to support people with drug and alcohol use (Opens in new tab).

ReachOut.com (Opens in new tab) has information about alcohol and other drug use and mental health for young people.

SMART Recovery Australia (Opens in new tab) provides accessible evidence-based tools to help people manage addictive behaviours.

Quit (Opens in new tab) has information and help for those wanting to quit smoking or vaping. Call the Quitline on 13 7848.

Languages other than English

The Alcohol and Drug Foundation has translated resources (Opens in new tab) about alcohol use, drugs, and a guide to supporting a loved one who may be using alcohol or other drugs.

Information for Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander peoples

Wellmob (Opens in new tab) has resources for looking after your body and staying away from alcohol and other drugs.

13YARN has a fact sheet on understanding substance misuse (Opens in new tab).