You’ve woken up to withdrawal symptoms one too many times. You’re ready to make some changes in your life. Overcoming a substance abuse problem is at the top of your list. However, one of the reasons you are still struggling with substance use disorder is that you’ve never been able to get the drugs or alcohol out of your system properly.
The discomfort and, in many cases, the pain of withdrawal symptoms lead individuals back to the substance they are abusing. Not because they desire some euphoric high but because their body has developed a tolerance, dependence, or addiction.
When this occurs, individuals need drugs or alcohol to simply function in a usual manner because their brain chemistry has been altered. In this way, addiction is a disease requiring professional help like that offered at Sante Center. Usually, the first step in getting an individual’s substance abuse treatment involves medically supervised detox. But what is medical detox, and how can it help you?
Detoxification vs. Cold Turkey Quitting
Have you ever tried to quit cold turkey? You probably threw out all of your drug paraphernalia and leftovers. You cleaned the house. Then the withdrawal symptoms set in.
You tried to stay strong. However, the pain and cravings were too intense within a few hours. Now you’re wondering, what is medical detox, and how it can make a difference in your plan to stop using. This form of detoxification enlists the help of medical professionals.
Side Effects of Cold Turkey Quitting
Withdrawal symptoms are a significant reason people continue using drugs or alcohol despite adverse consequences. When someone suddenly stops using, they can experience uncomfortable and sometimes dangerous side effects. This is called withdrawal because the body has become used to having the drug in its system.
Withdrawal symptoms can vary depending on the drug. For example, someone who regularly uses alcohol may experience tremors, anxiety, and sweats when they stop. Someone who uses drugs like heroin or prescription painkillers may have more intense symptoms, including shaking, vomiting, and hallucinations.
Withdrawal can be dangerous, so detoxing under medical supervision is essential. Medical professionals can help manage symptoms and ensure you’re as safe and comfortable as possible.
What Is Medical Detox, and How Does It Work?
You check into the detox facility. You work with an intake counselor who learns all about your drug use. Because of the welcoming atmosphere, you feel comfortable being honest. From there, the counselor customizes an approach to treatment.
There are doctors and other medical professionals who’ll monitor your progress. The typical duration of treatment is about four to ten days, depending on your needs. A set of modalities might include:
- Consistent medical monitoring of your vitals to keep you comfortable
- Pharmacological support to assist with withdrawal symptoms and cravings
- Dual diagnosis assessment and treatment of possible co-occurring psychiatric disorders
- Family therapy that brings in loved ones to help with healing and support
- Individual talk therapy that reinforces your decision to quit using
At medical detox, addiction treatment specialists help you deal with heart palpitations, muscle aches, and gastrointestinal upset. For drugs that can cause seizure activity, monitoring ensures your physical safety. Examples include opioids and alcohol. If you encounter complications such as confusion or hallucinations, these experts know what to do.
Because of the support you receive, there’s little chance of relapse.
Continuing Treatment to Overcome the Addiction
Detox is only the beginning of treatment. It’ll allow you to overcome the physical addiction. But there’s still the psychological part of the substance abuse problem. That’s where rehab comes in.
Now, therapists help you get to the why of your addiction. What caused you to start using drugs or alcohol in the first place? Are there stressors that you need to learn how to handle? At rehab, you answer these questions – and many more!
You work in groups as well as one-on-one with a therapist. Also, you continue the family therapy that you started during the detox phase of treatment. You remain in residential rehab until you feel ready to move on.
Other steps in the process of overcoming addiction are:
- Seeking professional help
- Attending therapy
- Participating in a support group
- Making lifestyle changes
- Taking medication
- Avoiding triggers and high-risk situations
You can overcome addiction with the proper support in place. Take the first step to a better, fuller life.
Medical Detox Near Me at Santé Center for Healing
What is medical detox if not an opportunity to start over? The first step on the road to sobriety, it’s also the most important one. At Santé Center for Healing, experts in addiction treatment understand the gravity of the situation. Call 866.238.3154 today to get the help you need now.
