Detoxification, or detox, is the process of allowing the body to remove the drugs in it. The purpose of detox is to manage withdrawal symptoms safely when someone stops abusing alcohol or drugs. Everyone’s experience with detox is different; the type of drug and the length of time it was used to affect what detox will be like.
Is It Safe to Detox at Home?
Choosing to detox at home can be detrimental to your health. Quitting without medical supervision can lead to serious issues such as severe dehydration and seizures. There are outpatient and inpatient detox programs that help prevent extreme complications.
The Detoxification Process
Everyone’s detox needs are different. The drug detox process helps addicted people get personalized treatment. In most cases, the process involves three steps:
- Evaluation
The medical team screens incoming patients for mental and physical health issues. Doctors use blood tests to measure the number of drugs in the patient’s system. This helps to determine the level of medications needed.
There is also an in-depth review of medical, drug, and psychiatric histories. This information sets up the basis for the patient’s long-term treatment plan. - Stabilization
The next step is to stabilize the patient with psychological and medical therapy. The goal of stabilization is to prevent any form of harm to the patient. Doctors may prescribe addiction treatment medications to reduce withdrawal symptoms and prevent complications. - Preparing to Enter Treatment
The last step of detox is to prepare for a treatment program. Doctors get their patients familiar with the treatment process and realistic expectations. Inpatient rehabilitation promotes the best chance of success after detox.
Side Effects of Detox
The process of drug detox can be dangerous and painful; this is a major reason why medical detox is very important. Detox with medical supervision allows patients to detox in a comfortable and safe atmosphere. The amount of supervision is different in outpatient and inpatient rehab.
Though medical detoxification limits withdrawal symptoms, some cannot be avoided. The most common side effects can include:
- Anxiety or nervousness
- Nausea
- Insomnia
- Bodily discomfort
- Mood swings
- Inadequate sleep
- Difficulty concentrating
At Asana Recovery, we understand how difficult recovering from these addictions through our daily work to help those struggling most from this disease. While some may believe they can make it alone, rehabilitation programs are essential in the fight to break the dependency. The road ahead is not a smooth or easy one, but you can traverse it if done so with the support of the right team. Counseling and aftercare processes can assist you by addressing the psychological facets that led you to addiction and help you build a structure from which to better cope with life without succumbing to addiction.The supervised detoxification and residential treatment programs at Asana Recovery are offered in a supportive, relaxing, and inspiring environment. We’re deeply committed to ensuring your long-term recovery and guiding you on your path to a healthier and happier future. There is no better time than now, and we’re always available to speak with you. Call us at (949) 438-4504 to learn more about our comprehensive drug and alcohol addiction treatment program today.