When dealing with substance abuse, you might have to go through the detox process. The detox process is when you have to clean your body of the substance you were abusing. Detoxing can be a dangerous process, so it is possible that you may require a medical professional to help with monitoring your use of the substance and, over time, lowering the dosing until you can completely stop.
When going through the detox process, there are many things to consider, one of them being the dangers of detoxing. Dealing with substance abuse can be difficult, especially when quitting. Some dangers come with detoxing, such as physical withdrawal symptoms that can affect the body. Additional withdrawal symptoms of withdrawal include:
While there are physical symptoms, there are also many that can interfere with your emotional well-being. Some emotional and mental symptoms can include:
It is best to remember that when you have decided to go through the detox process, you should first seek medical help to ensure you are taking the safest course of action. A professional will be able to help with diagnosis and a treatment plan. A professional will also provide family options that will help a family unit navigate and manage the addiction together.
When going through the detox process, you may hear the phrase, going “cold turkey,” which refers to ultimately stopping the use of the substance altogether in one go. While this is a method that some use, it is not always the best process to take. Going “cold turkey” might be acceptable if you are struggling with minor substance abuse and when there are minimal risks of health dangers. This is referred to as a sub-acute detox. It is important to know the difference between a sub-acute and acute detox.
Although the idea of “cold turkey” may seem pleasing, it is best to keep in mind that just quitting is not advised. Even when going “cold turkey,” you should always try to work on other areas of a program, such as attending groups, therapy, and, if needed seeking medical and emotional help. Going cold turkey can truly take a toll on the body and your mental health, so when making that decision, always make sure you are going about it in a safe and healthy manner.
Studies suggest that you should take a blood test before attempting detoxification. A blood test should include:
These are the determining factors of how safe your detox will be.
Going through the detox phase can be a scary and difficult task, and at times you are going to question whether you can do this on your own or not. There is never any shame in reaching out to professionals for help. If you have any concerns about your well-being when going through the detox program, that is the time to seek medical help. It is important to clarify that there are dangers to detoxing alone, and you should know them before you start the process.
One of the biggest struggles that people face when detoxing and reaching out for help is the feeling of being a failure or the feelings of shame and judgment. This is never the case, as the people there to help you would much rather provide you with the medical assistance you need versus seeing you try to do this alone and potentially causing harm to yourself.
You may ask yourself, during the detox process, is it worth it? Is getting sober worth the pain and the sickness that comes with the detox process? The answer is simply yes. Living a sober life is the best thing you can do for yourself. It is not about just living a drug-free life; it is about getting the most out of life.
You have to face challenges getting sober, so it is recommended that you seek out a treatment program that is right for you to help you face the potential issues that will come up once your mind is clear of substances. After all the substances are out of your system, you will feel better. It may not be an easy road, but to live a fulfilling and joyous life, the path of sobriety is the way to go.
Going through the detox phase of recovery can be difficult, and at times, it may even seem impossible, but there is no need to fear. If you need help, there are many resources available to you and medical professionals ready to assist you in anything you need. If you feel like you can't do this on your own or require help, please reach out to NorthStar Transitions, located in Boulder, CO., to find that help. Our experienced staff can help you and those you care about to navigate the detox process. Our goal is to educate you and your family about addiction so that you can learn to work together to manage the addiction. If you are in need of treatment, you want to do all that you can to help. To find out more about our programs, contact us today by calling us today at (303) 558-6400.
