Substance use disorder (SUD) and dependency carry an incredible burden on your life. You face every day, struggling to make it through and hoping that you can avoid using the substance. Yet, without fail, the thoughts and cravings increase until they become unbearable. By the end of the day, you turn to that substance so you can get some relief.
In these situations, addiction detox could be critically important to your recovery. It may even save your life.
If you are facing addiction and dependency right now, our team at Anabranch Recovery Center can offer guidance. Our drug and alcohol detox program can offer hands-on support right away, helping you to gain better control and supporting the start of your recovery.
What Happens in Addiction Detox?
Detoxification is a natural process your body uses to rid itself of unwanted toxins and other waste. In the detox process, your body works to flush out the chemicals present and stored within your bloodstream and tissues. Some drugs take longer to remove than others.
During detox, your body’s natural processes may be hindered by the intense thoughts and cravings you have. That’s why, outside of a detox treatment program, it can be impossible to just stop using a substance. Your body is now reliant on that substance, and when it is not there, it craves it so intensely that you cannot simply stop.
In detox programs, you’ve given support and guidance throughout this process. We can provide relief from many of the withdrawal symptoms you have, and help your body and mind safely navigate the detoxification. After a few days, you’ll gain greater clarity as your body relearns how to function without the substance.
When Does a Person With Addiction Need Detox?
Detox is necessary for those in active addiction with dependency. Some examples of when detox is necessary include:
- Long-term use of a drug or substance
- Heavy use of a substance, including large doses and frequent use
- Intense cravings
- Trying and not being able to stop using
- Medical conditions are present and could be impacted by detox
- Mental health complications exist
- The drug can cause high-risk health outcomes during the detox process
In these situations, a medical detox program becomes a resource for you. Most people who are using substances now and are unable to stop easily should consider the value of detox can offer. It creates a safe place for your body to regain control.
What Happens During Detox?
Entering a detox program can seem worrisome, but it is actually less intense and scary than it sounds. Every person at our treatment center wants you to see recovery. Consider what typically happens during the process.
You’re in a Safe Environment
In our treatment center, you’ll have access to around-the-clock medical care and support for your symptoms. You gain access to any health care needs you have as well.
You May Experience Symptoms
Detox is a complex process that involves your brain navigating significant changes. There is a risk for intense symptoms in some situations. Factors like your body chemistry, the type of drug, and the length of your use of that substance all contribute to the symptoms you have.
Common detox symptoms include:
- Irritability
- Fatigue
- Nausea and vomiting
- Rapid heart rate
- Insomnia
- Anxiety
- Muscle pain and weakness
- Fevers
- Seizures
- Hallucinations
It is rare, though possible, for individuals to suffer complex medical conditions. IN our treatment center, you have direct access to treatment for medical and mental health emergencies. That can give you peace of mind.
You’ll Go Through a Stepped Process
Typical detox timelines range from several hours to several days. The type of drugs used, as well as the severity of your dependency, play a role in what you can expect in terms of how long you will go through detox. Here is what you can expect from an average detox timeline.
- 12 hours: During this initial period, you will begin to see withdrawal symptoms. They can become moderately challenging. Headaches, anxiety, and irritability are common. Medications may be available to ease those experiences.
- First 24 hours: You may experience increasingly worse symptoms that include disorientation, intense pain, and tremors. Some people may experience seizures depending on the substance. Medical treatment and support are available to you.
- First 48 hours: Most often, you will have a second day of significant symptoms, and in some cases, the worst mental health symptoms. Hallucinations are possible. You may feel intense fear. Medications are available to help you.
- First week: Within the first week, you’ll start to feel better. You’ll feel the easing of symptoms and more clarity. You’ll also have treatment provided for any mental health issues and physical complexities that occur.
The entire process involves ample support. In treatment, these symptoms may not be as intense.
Let Our Team Guide You To Therapy
At Anabranch Recovery Center, we provide exceptional support for you throughout the process. Contact our Indiana addiction treatment program to learn more about detox.
