Many people experience a kind of fogginess or the “haze” of early recovery. One viewer writes in about her own concern about this lack of clarity and wonders if it will ever lift. Roc & Doc answer her question. Perhaps it’s your question too.

Kolmac Integrated Behavioral Health Center Counselor Rennie Grant (Roc) and Psychiatrist Dr. Tony Massey (Doc) answer your questions about addiction and recovery.

Sabrina Asks

Sabrina, an alcoholic in early recovery, asks: “I have some residual health issues, I can’t think well — like I’m in a haze. Will this ever go away?”

Doc: One of the hallmarks of Post Acute Withdrawal Syndrome (PAWS) is a feeling of haziness. At the cellular or biochemical level, there is a degree of inflammation that takes a while to heal. But your brain is healing, and that’s a good thing.

Roc: It’s been so long since I experienced PAWS, I almost forgot about it. I recall it taking about 9 months for the haze to completely lift in my case. But I keep getting clearer, even all these years later.

Takeaways

• Post Acute Withdrawl is different for everyone and there are variables that can determine how long PAWS can last (like length and amounts of substance intake).
• Eating right, physical activity, and making healthy choices helps you get through it faster. It’s a healing process.
• If you’re interested in learning more about Post Acute Withdrawal Syndrome (PAWS) you can find an additional resource here.

The bottom line is that the haze does eventually lift and your brain has the amazing power to heal over time. So don’t allow this to discourage you from staying the course in your personal recovery.

This 6-minute video is worth watching in its entirety. Find valuable information and helpful illustrations to help you on the path to living your best life ever.