> For the complete documentation index, see [llms.txt](https://www.healthywhilehomeless.org/llms.txt). Markdown versions of documentation pages are available by appending `.md` to page URLs; this page is available as [Markdown](https://www.healthywhilehomeless.org/addiction/withdrawing-for-a-drug-or-alcohol.md).

# Withdrawing for a drug or alcohol

Addiction can be a difficult thing to talk about. However, it is something that millions of Americans struggle with - over 7 million adults in the United States currently have an addiction to an illicit substance and over 15 million adults struggle with alcoholism.

**Although you can quit most drugs without side effects, it’s important to recognize signs of withdrawal that require immediate medical attention:**

* Seizures: You may blackout, start shaking uncontrollably, lose control of your urine or bowel, or even bite your tongue.
* Hallucinations: Hearing or seeing things that aren't actually there
* Feeling confused about where you are or who you are
* Other symptoms that together could be concerning are a racing heartbeat, tremor or shaking, fever, sweating, or headaches.