Detoxing – First Step in Recovery
Making the decision to stop using substances—as an individual who suffers from addiction—is a monumental first step. However, the idea of needing to detox if they are dependent on the substance can be intimidating for many reasons. Because of stigmatization, many people may be too ashamed to reach out for help or might not know where to turn for help. Detoxing the body of harmful and toxic substances can also be painful, taxing, and possibly life-threatening. These factors can lead individuals to attempt detoxing on their own. However, this can pose serious risks to a person and can be detrimental to their long-term health and well-being. Undergoing this process without medical care can also increase the chances of an unsuccessful detox and future relapse. Undergoing a medically supervised detox can prove to have many physical and mental benefits that outweigh the risks of attempting it alone.
For many people, detoxing is the first step toward recovery. Although it is not a replacement for therapy, it can help set up the individual for successful therapeutic treatment and long-term recovery. When the body is dependent on a harmful, addictive substance, an individual should be free of these toxins before analyzing unhealthy behaviors thoroughly and learning a new healthy, and sober lifestyle.
Physical Benefits of Medically Supervised Detox
It Can Be Life-Saving – Depending on each case, withdrawal symptoms can vary from person to person. But when the case is serious enough based on different elements, having a medical professional guide you through it can be life-saving. The serenity of each situation depends on many factors, such as:
- the length of time a person has been using the substance
- the amount they regularly took
- how frequently they took it
- mental and medical history
- gender
- body weight
For those with more severe cases that choose to detox without medical care, withdrawal symptoms can be fatal. Some of the more life-threatening withdrawal symptoms may lead to serious complications such as seizures, hallucinations, extreme fluctuations in body temperature and blood pressure, and delirium. A medical professional guides an individual through this process; they are able to monitor, provide around the clock care, and administer medication to the patient when necessary. They will be able to detect any life-threatening symptoms and manage them safely.
It Can Help Ease Other Symptoms – According to an article on withdrawal management provided by the National Center for Biotechnology Information, some non-life-threatening symptoms that one can experience during withdrawal may include:
- Nausea and vomiting
- Anxiety
- Insomnia
- Muscle cramps
- Diarrhea
- Restlessness
- Agitation and irritability
- Tremors, particularly in hands
- Dehydration
Because of these withdrawal symptoms that can cause illnesses and physical pain, having professional medicine for withdrawal management can reduce discomfort and provide symptom relief. This also ensures that an individual is in a safe, clean, and supportive environment. It may also reduce anxiety by knowing that the medical staff is composed of doctors and nurses trained in addiction-related treatments and are there to help. They can intervene in an emergency and ease a patient through discomforting symptoms. These rehabilitation and recovery centers provide care, empathy, and privacy, even in the most vulnerable moments of detoxing.
Mental Benefits of Medically Supervised Detox
While detoxing might not lead to sustained abstinence and recovery, it is an essential first step before a patient starts psychosocial treatment and therapy. The environment in which withdrawal management usually occurs is in a quiet and calm place. Patients are allowed to sleep and rest if they wish or do moderate activities such as walking. During this time, it can be normal to feel anxious or scared. These facilities can offer opportunities to engage in meditation or other calming practices as well. Although no formal counseling or physiological therapy takes place at this stage, being in an area that helps alleviate any anxiety and fears can be beneficial for the patient’s mental health.
It can also make a world of difference knowing that you do not have to suffer alone. Relying on an experienced doctor and other medical professionals can make the process less intimidating. It opens the door to many resources that may not be available to someone who tries to do it alone. It may take some of the weight off your shoulders knowing that you are in a safe environment surrounded by people who are rooting for you to be healthy and happy. Once the specifics of the addiction are identified and evaluated, proper treatment and withdrawal management can ensue. Afterward, follow-up therapeutic treatment can help ensure a successful recovery.
Medically Supervised Detox at Alta Centers
Intimidating withdrawal symptoms can be a significant roadblock for those seeking a healthy life-style and long-term recovery. Stigmatization around addiction and seeking help can also be another deterrent. It may lead to many people suffering alone and trying to detox by themselves. Depending on the circumstances, this can be a life-threatening and arduous process that no one should have to face alone. Exploring the possibility of a professional detox can help clear away the fear and anxiety that often looms over this process. Receiving proper care in a clean, safe, and supportive environment allows individuals to gain the energy, strength, and motivation it takes to move onto the next phase of treatment. For those considering a medically supervised detox, reach out to us at Alta Centers. We are a premier substance abuse treatment program located in the beautiful Hollywood Hills, Los Angeles, CA, specializing in drug detox, alcohol detox, and inpatient drug rehab. Call now at (888) 202-2583.
