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Drug and Alcohol Detox

detox process steps

Overcoming drug and alcohol dependency is no easy task. Since substance addiction causes your brain to become mentally and physically dependent, professional help is required on the road to recovery. Detox is the first step when it is time to seek addiction treatment.

What is Detox?

Detox treatment, often known as detoxification or detox, eliminates toxic chemicals from the body. Detox is used to treat drug and alcohol addictions. Often misunderstood as a comprehensive treatment option, alcohol or drug detox is the initial phase of a drug or alcohol recovery program.

For a recovery program to have a reasonable chance of success, the first step is to stabilize the addict’s physical health through detoxification. When addiction is more severe, a medical detox approach may be undertaken to treat withdrawal symptoms and cravings more effectively.

Detox Process

Though individual experiences may vary, most professional detoxification processes involve three essential parts, these include:

  • Evaluation: a time in which you will undergo a full assessment to evaluate your medical, psychological, social, and other specific detox and treatment needs.
  • Stabilization: entails supportive care and, if required, medical interventions to assist individuals in coping with the acute withdrawal phase. The stabilization stage is also an excellent time for programs to educate you about the upcoming addiction treatment process.
  • Fostering patient preparedness for treatment: Counselors work to increase your engagement in treatment, encourage you to continue treatment, and may even draft a contract requiring you to attend continuous treatment.

How Long Does Detox Take?

The period of medical detox might vary depending on several circumstances. Alcohol withdrawal symptoms may subside within a week. Other substances, such as benzodiazepines, may need a more extended detox period, lasting up to two weeks.

Both inpatient and outpatient rehab can help those with problematic drug or alcohol use not only get through the detox phase as comfortably and quickly as possible. Patients will also learn new coping mechanisms that will allow them to endure any unpleasant mental or physical withdrawal symptoms that may arise in the future.

Withdrawal and Detox Symptoms

Symptoms of drug withdrawal can range from mild to severe. When a person has a substance use disorder, the substance has become an integral component of their body’s regular functioning. The body must adjust to withdrawal when the substance is no longer present, resulting in several detox symptoms.

Depending on the substance abused, withdrawal symptoms may vary but commonly include:

  • Hallucinations
  • Mood changes
  • Trouble sleeping
  • Sweating
  • Changes in blood pressure or heart rate
  • Anxiety
  • Tremors
  • Feeling restless
  • Feeling depressed
  • Muscle aches

If a person with a substance use disorder (SUD) attempts to quit suddenly or independently, they may experience severe withdrawal symptoms. The dangers of detoxification can include both physical and psychological symptoms. If a person has significant psychological problems, they may become self-destructive. Generally, it is preferable to collaborate with a medical practitioner to establish a drug detox strategy and to be supervised during the process.

How Can Medical Detox Help You Overcome Withdrawals More Safely?

Medical detox may help and support a person in overcoming withdrawals since it is the most effective approach for controlling withdrawal. As stated earlier, withdrawal symptoms can be mental or physical; without adequate treatment, they can be deadly.

Medical detox is a 5-10 day program that includes medical withdrawal treatment and round-the-clock monitoring. Medications can effectively treat symptoms and cravings, and 24/7 emotional support is offered to keep patients safe.

A medical practitioner will be able to assist you through the withdrawal process if you undergo detoxification. An addiction specialist can guide you and enable a safe withdrawal process when you experience symptoms. You may safely stop substance abuse and prepare for the next phase of addiction treatment with medical supervision.

Graphic showing the common substance withdrawal symptoms

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What does a detox do to your body?

The detox process involves removing blood pollutants in the liver, where toxic chemicals are processed for removal. During a body detox, the body also eliminates toxins through the lungs, intestines, kidneys, and lymphatic system.

What comes out of your body when you detox?

Various waste products include uric acid, urea, excess sebum, creatinine, and dead skin cells. Your body can signal you it needs to detox with signs like weariness, poor sleep, irregular bowel motions, and skin problems.

Is it safe to detox?

Like many other fad diets, Detox diets may be problematic, especially for young people. A chemical or poison that harms the body is a toxin. Toxins can be found in food, water, chemicals used to grow or prepare food, and even in the air we breathe.

Regain Control of Your Life with The Haven Detox

If you are battling a substance use disorder (SUD), you are not alone. Unfortunately, many people suffer from the same issue. Many generations have fought the battle against addiction. Fortunately, The Haven’s proven treatment programs make recovery from addiction more comfortable and accessible. 

At The Haven, we strive to make your recovery as easy and pleasant as possible. The most significant benefit of attending our inpatient detox is the assistance and knowledge you will receive. We know that the path to recovery is filled with ups and downs. Our staff is here to celebrate you on the good days and support you on the bad days. 

If you or a loved one is seeking help for substance addiction, now is the time to act. Don’t hesitate to call The Haven at (561) 328-8627 for more information about our services.

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