Which of the following is a stimulant withdrawal symptom?

• A. Fatigue
• B. Vivid dreams
• C. Increased appetite
• D. Insomnia

Answer: (A)

When someone who has been using stimulants regularly stops, the body’s energy systems rebound and you typically see fatigue as a prominent symptom. Stimulants boost dopamine and norepinephrine, creating wakefulness and high energy. With chronic use, the brain adjusts by reducing these signals or receptors. After cessation, the diminished monoaminergic activity leads to low energy, lethargy, and a strong need to rest, which is why fatigue is the most characteristic withdrawal sign.

Vivid dreams can occur due to sleep stage changes during withdrawal, and increased appetite often follows as the body seeks to restore energy balance, but fatigue remains the most consistent and defining feature. Insomnia is less typical for stimulant withdrawal, being more commonly associated with withdrawal from sedatives.