​Do I need Detox?

People might want to believe that they can simply stop the madness by taking no drugs at all, and they’ll back out of their addictions and land on the road to wellness, all on their own. While it’s possible that some people can overcome their addictions through sheer willpower, many people need the help that only a detoxification program can bring. These are some things that those people might have in common.

Step-by-Step Guide for seeking help for yourself or someone else.

Withdrawal Pains Are Overwhelming

Some addictive drugs cause so much physical discomfort that people have difficulty completing the process. For example, opiate drugs like heroin and prescription drugs can cause people to experience these symptoms during withdrawal:

• Nausea
• Abdominal cramping
• Watering eyes
• Sore muscles
• Insomnia

 

Some people try to go through withdrawal on their own, but according to a study in the Journal of Psychopharmacology, about 61 percent of people who do so are unsuccessful in their attempt. They feel so uncomfortable that taking drugs seems reasonable or even preferable. Detox programs can soothe some of that discomfort, and it’s harder to relapse within the walls of a drug detox program, as there are no illicit drugs available. In a safe and structured program such as detox, people might find the inner strength and support they need to see the process through to completion.

When Alcohol and Benzodiazepines Are Being Used

Alcohol and some drugs cause discomfort and pain during withdrawal, but others cause life-threatening complications to form. People who drink alcohol or take benzodiazepine medications like Valium might develop seizures when they attempt to stop taking drugs, and they may need medical supervision so they can get through the process safely. They might go through withdrawal at home, rather than in a structured detox program, but they still need the help of a detox plan. On a case-by-case basis, a slow taper of the drug might be needed, along with professional support.

When Mental Illness Issues Are Present

People often struggle with mental illnesses along with addiction, and this can lead them to make terrible choices. For example, a study in the American Journal of Drug and Alcohol Abuse found that the suicide attempt rate was 12 times greater in people who took drugs, when compared to the general population. Going through withdrawal at home can be risky when depression and anxiety are present, as the process can stir up deep emotions that have been buried for decades. People can feel lost, unsure or just unhappy, and they may turn back to drugs to make the thoughts stop. Detox programs could be vital to success as, once again, there are no illicit drugs allowed in these facilities and prescribed medication is managed and administered by nursing staff. Relapse is less likely when there is nothing readily available to take. Counselors, nurses and clinical assistants are also in facilities like this, and they can step in and help if emotions become overwhelming.

The Resolve to Quit Is Weak

Some people feel as though they should quit, but they don’t feel as though they’re strong enough to do so, or they don’t really want to leave drugs behind in the first place. A detox program could be just the thing to turn these people around. In detox, people will have the emotional support they need in order to see the process through, and the counseling they receive in detox could increase their desire to quit and build a healthier life. For most, willpower simply is not enough to get clean and sober and are more successful in a formal treatment program.

At the Substance Abuse Services Center, there a state-of-the-art detox facility that can provide meaningful help for people who are addicted to drugs. Anuvia provides personalized care and attention, with the goal to look for ways to help people tap into their inner strength and find the ability to change their lives for the better. Please call  704-336-3067 to find out more.