Paw Basics
What does PAW stand for?
Post-Acute Withdrawal
Name one of the 6 major PAW symptoms
Trouble thinking clearly, memory problems, emotional overreaction/numbness, sleep problems, physical coordination problems, or stress sensitivity.
What does H.A.L.T. stand for?
Hungry, Angry, Lonely, Tired
How many well-balanced meals are recommended each day?
3 meals.
What can make PAW symptoms worse?
Stress
Does PAW happen before or after acute withdrawal?
After acute withdrawal
Someone keeps forgetting appointments and conversations. Which PAW symptom could this be?
Memory problems
What is the one thing you can do when you identify a stress trigger?
Avoid it, change the situation, change your reaction, or interrupt it.
Name two aerobic exercises from the lesson.
Walking/jogging, swimming, cycling, jumping rope, dancing, etc.
What is "reality testing"?
Asking someone you trust whether your thinking or perception of a situation makes sense.
Around when can PAW symptoms reach their peak intensity?
About 3-6 months after abstinence begins.
Emotional overreaction.
What is "backtracking"?
Looking back at a PAW episode to identify how it started, what triggered it, and what could have been done differently.
Why should someone in recovery limit caffeine?
It can cause nervousness, restlessness, concentration problems, and sleep problems.
Why can learning about PAW help someone in recovery?
It can reduce fear/confusion and help them understand and manage their symptoms.
Someone feels clumsy, has trouble with balance, or has slower reflexes. Which PAW symptom is this?
Physical coordination problem
According to the lesson, about how long can adjustment from nervous system damage take?
About 6-24 months
Name 3 ways someone can stabilize themselves when PAW symptoms become overwhelming,
Examples: verbalization, ventilation, reality testing, problem solving/goal setting, backtracking, or using H.A.L.T.
What 3 things are especially important for physical health in balanced living?
Nutrition, rest, and exercise
What does self-protective behavior mean in recovery?
Protecting yourself from stress, people, situations, or triggers that could threaten your sobriety.
Why might a person experiencing PAW think they are having a "nervous breakdown"?
PAW can cause confusion, difficulty concentrating, memory problems, emotional changes, and feeling overwhelmed.
What are the 6 major types of PAW symptoms?
Inability to think clearly, memory problems, emotional overreaction/numbness, sleep disturbances, physical coordination problems, and stress sensitivity.
Name all 5 parts of the quick guide for managing PAW.
Accurate information, stress management, proper diet, aerobic exercise, and a recovery program.
Walters PAW symptoms were worse on Saturdays. What changes helped his "Saturday Syndrome"?
Changing his routine, eating breakfast, reducing caffeine/donuts, exercising, and spending more time with his family.
What does balanced living include besides staying sober?
Taking care of physical, psychological, social, and spiritual needs while balancing responsibilities, relationships, recovery, work, rest, and personal growth