The withdrawal symptoms in drug detox can be challenging at best and life-threatening at their most severe. Thankfully, the days of suffering at home alone without help are gone. Many interventions can alleviate the symptoms of detox and keep you safe. To learn more about drug detox in Texas, call Santé Center for Healing today at 866.238.3154.
What Is Drug Detox?
Alcohol and other substances make changes in your brain’s chemical makeup. With long-term use, your system becomes dependent on the chemicals substances provide. When you stop using those substances, the brain works quickly to regain balance, but it can take several days until normal function resumes.
During this period, when the brain is working to regulate itself again, withdrawal symptoms occur. The exact symptoms you experience during detox and their severity depend on many factors. Detoxing from some substances, such as opioids, benzodiazepines, or alcohol, can be extremely unpleasant and even dangerous. Your drug history, physical health, and any other co-occurring conditions also play a role.
Symptoms of drug detox may include both physical and psychological issues, such as:
- Insomnia
- Irritability
- Nausea and other flu-like symptoms
- Nightmares
- Muscle pain
- Tremors
- Depression
- Anxiety
- High or low blood pressure
- Strong cravings
If you are ready to embrace life without substance misuse, withdrawal can’t be avoided, but it can be managed. What helps with drug detox? Many things can, but the most important one may be medical care.
5 Tips to Manage the Symptoms of Drug Detox
Withdrawal symptoms can’t be completely eliminated, but the process can be safer and more comfortable. Going “cold turkey” is never recommended and could put you at risk of stroke, seizure, or even suicide. Start your recovery process by getting a health evaluation from a medical professional with experience in addiction medicine. They can recommend detox services that will keep you safe and minimize discomfort.
1. Medically Supervised Detox
On the list of what helps with drug detox, medical assistance is number one. Medical care helps to reduce withdrawal symptoms with medication and other interventions. Clients have 24-hour access to medical support if needed, including psychiatric care. Medical detox programs typically last five to ten days and provide a smooth transition into ongoing treatment services.
2. Support
Support from peers, family members, clinicians, and recovery staff is essential during detox. Detoxing can be an emotional experience. Clients may feel depressed or anxious about what their lives will be like without using substances. Detoxing in an environment where you are supported without judgment can help you stay positive and confident in your choice to enter treatment.
3. Nutrition
Drugs and alcohol deplete important nutrients from your body. To make matters worse, many people with long-term substance use issues suffer from malnutrition. Meals that are high in protein and rich in essential vitamins can help restore healthy function to your brain and body.
4. Sleep
Sleep is restorative. While you’re sleeping, your brain and body are hard at work repairing tissues and releasing hormones that help balance your mood. Following a strict sleep schedule while detoxing can ease withdrawal symptoms and help speed up the healing process.
5. Therapy
Engaging in therapy as soon as possible may help alleviate the psychological symptoms of withdrawal. Detox is only the first step in recovery. Behavioral therapies provide the resources you need to develop healthy new coping skills that will help you self-manage and minimize symptoms.
Find Support for Drug Detox at Santé Center for Healing
What is drug detox? From one perspective, it is the start of a healthy new life. Detoxing on your own can be dangerous, and it may lower your chances of finding lasting recovery. Contact Santé Center for Healing today at 866.238.3154 for information about what helps with drug detox and our medical detox program.
