What withdrawal can look like
Every person and every case is different — this is a general pattern other people have described, not a prediction of what will happen to you.
The first 24 hours
Many people feel okay at first, then notice restlessness, anxiety, or trouble sitting still. Some people also start to feel muscle discomfort, a runny nose, or sweating.
Day 1–3
This stretch is often described as the hardest — disrupted sleep, low appetite, stomach upset, and mood swings are common. Many people in our community say this is when peer support matters most, simply because time moves slowly and it's easy to feel like it won't end.
Day 4–7
Physical symptoms often start to ease during this window, though energy, sleep, and appetite can still be inconsistent. Some people feel a return of mental fog or low motivation even as the physical symptoms fade.
Week 2 and beyond
Physical symptoms have usually settled substantially by now for most people, but mood, sleep quality, and cravings can take longer to fully stabilize. This is often when it helps most to have something to look forward to, and people to check in with.
When to get emergency help
Severe dehydration, chest pain, trouble breathing, confusion, a seizure, or feeling unable to keep yourself safe are reasons to get help immediately, not to wait it out. See the full list on the Safety page.
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