INTRODUCTION

The withdrawal experience can be challenging not just to the person discontinuing the medication, but for relatives and others who care for them. The consequences are often inconceivable and it can be frustrating and painful to see someone you care so deeply for, in the throes of withdrawal. It is such a complex phenomenon and with very little public awareness, it can be difficult to relate to the experience.

It is not uncommon for family members, friends and caregivers to wonder if the person is overreacting or if the medication is causing some form of permanent mental or physical disorder. Sometimes the person in withdrawal feels the same.

The more severe cases of withdrawal can impact family life to the point of devastation. The repercussions can be dire. Witnessing the physical and psychological symptoms, personality changes and emotional challenges can be distressing and providing the practical support requires dedication, patience and stamina.

In this video, the ways in which withdrawal affects relatives and friends are explained:

It requires unconditional acceptance to support a loved one going through withdrawal. This includes the ones who are still taking their medication but may be experiencing tolerance symptoms (when a higher dose of the drug is required in order for it to be effective), as well as those who may take the drug erratically and are unknowingly experiencing what is known as inter-dose withdrawal.

Support may be needed for much longer than anticipated. There will be times when your loved one may seem to be doing well, only to be have the symptoms return with intensity. This is normal. It can feel like you are on a roller coaster ride and so it is important that you also look after yourself while offering support to your loved one.

The most important thing is that you all keep in mind that even if the symptoms are persistent, the withdrawal will not last forever. The symptoms will eventually subside and your loved one will get better. Withdrawal stories have a happy ending so don’t lose heart. Just be patient, look after yourself well while you offer your support, and know that one day this will be a closed life chapter.