National Certified Addiction Counselor, Level 2 (NCAC II) Practice Exam Exam

What is commonly considered a significant symptom of withdrawal from psychoactive substances?

1. Increased tolerance to the substance

2. Physical discomfort and agitation

3. Heightened sense of euphoria

4. Improved social interactions

The correct answer is: Physical discomfort and agitation

Withdrawal from psychoactive substances often leads to a range of troubling symptoms as the body reacts to the absence of the substance it has become dependent on. One of the significant characteristics of withdrawal is the experience of physical discomfort and agitation. This discomfort can manifest in various forms, such as sweating, shaking, nausea, headaches, or muscle pain, depending on the substance involved. Agitation might also be psychological, leading to increased anxiety, irritability, or restlessness. This physiological and psychological discomfort reflects the body's struggle to regain homeostasis without the influence of the substance. In contrast, increased tolerance signifies a person's ability to consume more of a substance without experiencing the same effects, which is a sign of dependence but not a symptom of withdrawal. Heightened sense of euphoria might occur when using the substance, and improved social interactions is generally not associated with withdrawal; instead, individuals often withdraw socially during this challenging phase. Thus, physical discomfort and agitation aptly capture the distressing experience of withdrawal symptoms.