For most addiction treatments, detox is one of the first steps in the addiction treatment process. If you or someone you know is going through this process, it’s only natural to have some questions about what it entails. Here are a few things that you should expect during detox.
What Is A Detox?
When someone is addicted to drugs or alcohol, their body becomes dependent on that substance. The detox process removes that substance dependency by slowly waning off the substance and gradually reducing that dependency. Doing this on your own can be dangerous. Many people attempt to quit cold turkey, and the withdrawal symptoms have lasting effects on their mental health.
It is better to seek advice from professionals, such as American Treatment Network, when beginning the process. While detox is a great first step, there are other needs that will need to be met in order to regain sobriety, which is why counseling and group therapy are often introduced during the detox. These programs are designed to help deal with addiction and impulse control once the physical symptoms have ceased.
Withdrawal Symptoms
Even during a medically assisted detox, you are still likely to experience some symptoms of withdrawal. These symptoms vary depending on a few factors, including the type of substance and how regularly it was used, how long it was used for, and your own physical health. Some of the common symptoms include:
- Sweating
- Anxiety
- Headache
- Nausea and vomiting
- Shaking or tremors
- Fatigue
- Irritability
- Insomnia
- High blood pressure
- Racing or irregular heartbeat
Withdrawal is uncomfortable, which is why getting through early sobriety is so hard. Finding a safe environment where you can get support and assistance is always the best option.
What is the Detox Time Frame?
The amount of time it takes to fully detox varies from person to person, but generally, it takes from 3 days to two weeks. Some factors that could affect the length of the detox include:
- The substance
- Length and consistency of abuse
- Amount of substance recently consumed
- The severity of withdrawal symptoms
- Degree of medical assistance required
- Co-occurring disorders
Detoxing isn’t easy, but with hard work and determination, it can be the first step on the road to sobriety.
American Treatment Network in Newark, DE
If you or someone you know is battling any type of addiction, contact us at American Treatment Network. We are a substance abuse clinic with locations in Havertown PA, Dover DE, and Newark DE. We offer medically assisted treatment for our patient’s physical and mental needs. If you would like to book an appointment, click the link.
