What is withdrawal?
Withdrawal is the name given to the symptoms that occur after stopping or decreasing substance use. Withdrawal symptoms can be physical, mental, or emotional. The types of symptoms, their severity, and how long they last vary depending on the substance and how long someone has been using it. Withdrawal from long term use of some substances such as alcohol or benzodiazepines can be dangerous and even potentially deadly, so it’s important to prepare yourself and consider whether you’d benefit from medical assistance if you’re planning to make a change to substance use. Check out the guides below to learn more about preparing to withdraw from various substances.
Turning Point’s guides to getting through withdrawal
These guides were prepared by our colleagues at Turning Point, Australia’s national addiction treatment, training and research centre.
Find support
Going through withdrawal is challenging. If you’re withdrawing or contemplating making a change, counsellors are here to support you and help you find helpful resources in your community. Call the Alcohol and Drug Information Service in your state or chat to us online. You can also reach out to your peers in our Online Community.
