Detox is the first critical step towards recovery from drug or alcohol addiction.
Every individual is different, which means everyone will have a different experience with detox. There are several factors that will determine how an individual will react to detoxification. This includes:
Detoxification is important because it removes drugs and alcohol out of the system so treatment can begin. Depending on the type of addiction, toxins can remain in the system for days or weeks after the last use. The detox process presents a series of uncomfortable withdrawal symptoms that when done unsupervised, can turn dangerous or even deadly. Sometimes, withdrawal symptoms are so unbearable that they cause individuals to relapse. Addiction is a disease that affects the entire being- mind, and body.
Alcohol and Benzodiazepines tend to present the most dangerous physical withdrawal symptoms. Quitting these substances cold turkey can result in very high-risk symptoms, including:
Medically-supervised detox programs use non-addictive medications to safely manage withdrawal symptoms. Each individual will receive a medication plan unique to their situation. Medical professionals provide around-the-clock care to ensure the client’s safety and decrease danger during the initial period.
After completing a detox program, the client can move forward onto the next step towards a sober, healthy lifestyle. Participation in an intensive addiction treatment program after detox increases the chances of long-term sobriety.