Detox, short for detoxification, is the process of getting drugs or alcohol out of an addicted person’s system. It is the first step on journey to clean and sober living. Detox physically and mentally stabilizes people so that they can begin treatment and recovery.
All three steps – detox, treatment and recovery –are part of comprehensive rehabilitation from substance abuse.
Drugs and alcohol used in excess are toxic, making detox potentially painful and dangerous. The first hours of the process can be intense. Depending on the drug used, addicted men and women may have withdrawal symptoms.
The type of symptoms experienced depends on a number of things: how long they have been using, the substance being abused, and whether there are other physical and/or mental disorder issues.
Withdrawal Symtoms
Symptoms can manifest in agitation, anxiety, chills, confusion, cramping, drug craving, headache, insomnia, irritability mood swings, nausea, runny nose, shaking, sweating, tremors, and vomiting. Aural and/or visual hallucinations and seizures are possible among those who have an alcohol, opiate-based medications and benzodiazepines addiction during the detox period. Users of heroin and other opiates may feel muscle and bone pain. Among those who have abused stimulants, such as cocaine and crystal meth, depression and suicidal thoughts may occur.
The best choice of detox for you depends on several factors, including what your drug of choice is, the dose taken at the time of detox, how long you have been using, and whether other drugs are being taken. Detox is usually accomplished in an inpatient medical facility under the watchful eyes of caregivers and health professional. Medical detox can be short-term or long-term. It is important that health care professionals supervise your detox. Medical personnel can help make the process as safe and comfortable for you as possible. Do not entertain any ideas about going “cold turkey.”
When looking for a drug detox center, it’s important to ask about their ability to address medical issues.
A lot of people wonder how long detox will take. The process will last as long as withdrawal symptoms and as long as it takes to get the patient stabilized. An expectation of a week or two is usually accurate. Cleansing the body of toxins if vital to your recovery.
Once you have been supported through the withdrawal symptoms and the drug toxins have left your body, therapy can begin. Therapies can include individual counseling, family counseling, educational and life skills classes.
The journey from addicted to clean begins with detox.
At TrustedRehab, we help you find the detox center for your individual needs. Call us today.