Anyone who's gone through drug withdrawal has a story-- where they were when they decided to quit drugs, how it felt once they did, and what happened next.
You're going to have a story too.
Not everyone experiences drug withdrawal the same way.
But one thing is for sure: It's not going to be easy.
So before you get started, it might help to know what's happening to you and why.
When you've been taking drugs heavily, the drugs become as important to your body as food and water.
That's why your whole body--your brain, your muscles, all the way down to your cells--craves the drugs you've stopped.
And without the drugs, your body reacts ... and those reactions can feel terrible.
Now, how you will feel depends on the drugs you're using.
You may have nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and sweating.
Some people feel tense and edgy.
They can feel sad.
And they can get really anxious or get the shakes.
Here's something you need to know: The people on your care team understand what you're going through.
And they know how to help ease your symptoms with medicine and other support.
After you stop taking drugs, your body needs time to heal.
Withdrawal symptoms can last from a few days to several weeks after you quit.
But each day you will feel a little bit better as your body adjusts and heals itself.
Sure, it's a lot to deal with.
But this is your story.
And though you may not believe it just yet, you already have what it takes: patience, courage, and strength.
Because that's what you had when you decided to stop using.
With time and the support of your care team, you will heal so that you can take the next steps to getting your life back.