When people’s patterns of alcohol or drug abuse spiral into problematic and health-threatening defeats, they should consider enrolling in a detox program to safely withdrawal from their substance-of-choice, under the supervision of a team of trained professionals. For men and women who suffer from substance-use disorders, this can be the most challenging, yet rewarding step in their recovery journey.
Each substance-use disorder patient has different needs when dealing with the effects of prolonged substance use. Symptoms may range from mild to severe, depending on each person’s bodily reactions and sensitivities. The care you will need relates directly to the kind of symptoms you have.
When a person develops a physical dependency on illicit or prescription drugs, abrupt discontinuations of drug-use can lead to symptoms of withdrawal. Without proper precautions, a patient may experience adverse side effects that can inflict harm on their body and mind.
Despite its risks, detoxification is a life-changing and life-renewing part of recovery. For those curious about starting their own detox journey, here is a comprehensive overview of detox program basics: important steps, withdrawal symptoms, medication, types of programs, etc.
What is detox?
Detox is the process of eliminating all traces of drugs and alcohol from the body to ensure that a patient is in good physical shape and adequately prepared for therapy. Prolonged exposure to harmful substances can generate symptoms of addiction, meaning a patient’s system not only craves the substance of choice but relies on it to function.
When these substances are slowly flushed from the system during detox, a patient’s brain starts to acclimate to the reduced doses of these substances. Even when directed by medical professionals, this detox process can cause discomfort and/or symptoms of withdrawal. It’s important to note that the detox process is not a form of treatment itself, but nonetheless, a pivotal step in recovering from substance-use disorders.
What happens during detox?
1. Medical assessment
The medical assessment is the first and, arguably, the most significant step of a detox process. The assessment measures the substance levels in a patient’s body to help determine the appropriate treatment plan. During this step, a detox expert gathers all relevant patient information, including details of the patient’s addiction history, medical history, and mental and physical test results to help formulate a customized detox program.
2. Detox support
Once the necessary tests have been conducted, the next step is to seek out a support group, which will include a team of medical experts. This team of experts can help a person suffering from withdrawal symptoms and other related issues feel as comfortable as possible.
Overall, detox support strives to better a patient’s physical and mental well-being. During this process, experts, such as those at the New Port Richey detox facility, will monitor your blood pressure, breathing, temperature, and heart rate regularly.
3. Withdrawal
When individuals facing substance-use disorders halt or gradually wean-off substance their regular substance use, oftentimes, they will start to experience symptoms of withdrawal. The type of symptoms and their level of severity will depend on the length of time a person has been exposed to these harmful substances, the frequency of use, the condition of their mental and physical health, and the type of substance they’re dependent on.
During the detox process, every patient’s experience is unique and so are their needs. Depending on your situation, you may face the following symptoms of withdrawal:
Psychological Withdrawal Symptoms
- Hallucination
- Insomnia
- Irritability
- Extreme mood swings
- Depression
- Anxiety and agitation
Physical Withdrawal Symptoms
- High temperature and chills
- Increased blood pressure
- Nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea
- Headaches, sweating, and running nose
- Exhaustion
4. Medication
Medication is administered to help those suffering from substance-use disorders cope with uncomfortable withdrawal side effects. Although there is no one-size-fits-all medication, each patient will be prescribed the appropriate treatment to reduce and potentially prevent withdrawal symptoms Some medications can help even help calm symptoms of depression and anxiety and induce sleep.
Types of Detox Programs
The detox process is sectioned into two main branches: inpatient and outpatient. In an inpatient program, a substance-use disorder sufferer is admitted into a rehab center, detox clinic, or hospital. During inpatient treatment, a patient will have access to medical care and support around the clock.
On the other hand in an outpatient program, patients receive medical care during the day and return to their homes following treatment. This process involves regular visits to your care provider for support and medication.
While an inpatient program can provide a wide range of services, costs can be astronomical. On the flipside, outpatient programs cost less and garner success for individuals suffering from mild to moderate symptoms. Despite pervasive misconceptions, patients who have a tight-knit support system at home, stable mental and physical health, or a short history of substance use, are still eligible for an inpatient plan.
How do you choose a detox program?
The first step in choosing the right program is to map out your set of needs or the needs of your loved one interested in a detox program. Whether you’re dealing with a long-term substance use disorder or mental health condition, you’ll want to list your physical, mental, and lifestyle needs to ensure your physician will prescribe the right medication and support.
For instance, if your home life is unstable or lacks a sturdy support network, opting for an inpatient program may be the right recovery route to pursue. In your decision, you may need to consider the quality of services and your budget flexibility to identify what programs you can afford.
Takeaways
Remember the detox process is a marathon, not a sprint. This journey can be overwhelming and emotionally-exhausting and will require a certain level of patience and determination. However, the time and energy investment is well worth a life of sobriety. If, at some point, you feel like giving up, remember how vital this process is for your well-being and the well-being of your family. Once you complete the detox process, you might be tempted to return to your life of substance use, so it’s essential to continue follow-up care for about a year after discharge.