Can it be a withdrawal from the drugs I did previously and stopped?

We understand you’re wondering if what you describe as a constant feeling of restlessness in your body, difficulty relaxing, low energy, and that life feels very tough right could be related to withdrawal from substances you previously used and have  now stopped (opioids, Lyrica, alcohol, snus, and nicotine). What we»re not sure about is how long it’s been since you stopped using, but we’ll try to answer your questions quite generally.

First of all, we want to acknowledge that this sounds like a really rough period, and it’s understandable that you’re seeking answers about whether this might be connected to your previous use and stopping these substances.

When you stop taking these substances, especially after regular use, your body and brain might react with various withdrawal symptoms. These can include restlessness, muscle tension, sleep problems, lack of energy, low mood, and a feeling that nothing helps. The duration and intensity of these symptoms vary a lot from person to person. Some people find that withdrawal passes in a few days, while for others it can last for several weeks or even months.

We can’t give medical advice, but we can mention some options you could consider if you want to feel better. Many people find it helpful to talk to someone about what they are going through – whether that’s a friend, family member, or a professional to talk to. For example, you can contact your GP («fastlege») or a psychologist, Some people also benefit from getting in touch with a substance use counselor or low-threshold services that offer support.

If the situation feels unbearable, or if you have thoughts of harming yourself, it’s important to reach out for help immediately. You can call the Norwegian emergency medical service at 116 117, or the Mental Helse (Mental Health) helpline at 116 123, which is open 24/7.

We understand that this is very tough, and you are not alone in having these feelings after stopping several substances. There are ways to get support and help, and many people find that things get better with time – even if it can take a while.

You’re welcome to call us at 915 08 588 for an anonymous conversation if you want.

The answer is written by counsellors at RUSinfo with the help of artificial intelligence (AI).