Stimulant Withdrawal

Stimulant withdrawal refers to the constellation of psychological and physical symptoms that can occur on cessation of or a significant reduction in habitual use of licit and illicit psychostimulant drugs (e.g., amphetamines, cocaine). Clinical psychologists may encounter stimulant withdrawal in the course of their training and practice, particularly those who work in substance abuse treatment and psychiatric emergency settings. Being able to assess and recognize the symptoms is important since withdrawal, or avoidance of it, is often a motivating factor for an individual to continue or resume stimulant use. In addition, stimulant withdrawal may confound diagnosis by mimicking or exacerbating mood or anxiety disorders.

According to the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, Fifth Edition (DSM-5), the primary symptom of stimulant withdrawal is dysphoric mood ...

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