A lot of things can happen to your body during the process of detoxing substances from your system. Some individuals can quit cold turkey and detox independently, but this can be dangerous. The withdrawal process can become uncomfortable for most. For that reason, some may avoid entering treatment out of fear of the withdrawal process. Luckily, detoxing in a facility is safer, more comfortable, and can include around-the-clock care and 24/7 supervision.
In short, individuals can detox at home, but people should not detox alone. Consider treatment if you or a loved one are struggling with addiction and the detox stage of recovery. Our detox and withdrawal management program at NorthStar Transitions can help.
Substance use disorder (SUD) occurs when someone loses control over their alcohol or drug use, leading to health issues, problems at work, and the inability to function day-to-day. While the exact causes are still unknown, research indicates genes, peer pressure, mental illness, and environmental factors all contribute to the development of SUD.
About half of all individuals with SUD must also cope with co-occurring disorders. These may include anxiety, depression, attention deficit disorder (ADD), or post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). In many instances, people turn to substance use to cope with symptoms of co-occurring disorders. However, it is also possible for substance use to lead to the development of these chronic conditions. In either case, dual diagnosis is required for recovery.
Individuals with SUD may struggle with alcohol or drug use. Unfortunately, drug addiction continues to ravage the country. The National Institute of Drug Abuse (NIDA) describes drug addiction as a "chronic disease characterized by drug seeking and use that is compulsive, or difficult to control, despite harmful consequences."
Repetitive drug use leads to physical changes in the brain. As the brain changes, it becomes harder for people to resist cravings and urges. Though drug addiction is a relapsing, chronic condition, treatment is possible.
AUD is a type of SUD and, much like drug addiction, is a "medical condition characterized by an impaired ability to stop or control alcohol use despite adverse social, occupational, or health consequences." In the past, AUD has typically been called alcohol abuse, alcohol addiction, and alcoholism and is quite common across the country. A 2019 national survey indicated 14.1 million adults had AUD.
Like any SUD, there is no direct cause of AUD. Drinking at an early age, genetics, a history of alcoholism in the family, and social factors can all contribute to the development of AUD. The National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism (NIAAA) indicates the hereditability of a predisposition for an addiction to alcohol to be approximately 60 percent. Additionally, as mentioned above, co-occurring disorders can also play a part in the development of AUD. Many individuals frequently turn to alcohol to self-medicate.
Treatment options for SUD, whether drug addiction or alcohol dependency, typically include behavioral therapies, medications, support group meetings, and even holistic practices. Most individuals find a combination of these methods to be most effective. Additionally, treatment has the most potential when tailored to each person seeking treatment.
Upon initial contact with an admissions counselor or other professional, this professional will facilitate several assessments. These assessments help clinicians understand an individual's situation, what substances are involved, and if co-occurring disorders must be considered. However, seeking treatment is only the first step, and detox is the next phase of the process.
Regular substance use impacts how we think, feel and act while disrupting the natural functions of the brain and body. The long-term effects can cause unpleasant withdrawal symptoms when use ceases. That is what detox is for. It eliminates substances from the body. Unfortunately, the process usually causes uncomfortable, even dangerous, withdrawal symptoms. Individuals must go through detox to heal from addiction, reduce dependence, and safely manage withdrawal symptoms.
Detox is vital before entering treatment because it allows individuals to focus on treatment. An improper detox can cause people to experience anxiety, intense cravings, and mood swings, making it challenging to progress. Typical withdrawal symptoms include:
Individuals can safely detox at home. However, detoxing alone is highly discouraged. Nowadays, some programs offer outpatient detox treatments, allowing individuals to detox from their homes while receiving care at a facility on a schedule. This is a viable option for people in a stable household. Additionally, it is vital for people not to have severe medical or psychiatric concerns, such as thoughts of suicide, for this to be the best option.
Regarding the question of whether or not individuals can detox alone, this is a different story. Withdrawal symptoms can be so intense that individuals require medical care. Those who detox alone may not have access to such care, which can be detrimental.
If you or someone you love wants to start detox, consider going to a facility that offers 24/7 support and monitoring. Not everyone can safely detox at home, and even with outpatient programs, some services are more effective in a facility.
For more information, reach out to NorthStar Transitions today.
Believe it or not, individuals can safely detox from drugs or alcohol at home. However, it is dangerous to detox alone. Withdrawal symptoms are typically uncomfortable and can become severe and painful. For that reason, it is always recommended individuals seek detox in a facility. Detoxing in an addiction treatment facility avails one of many services outpatient detox programs can not. That includes 24/7 monitoring, around-the-clock care, and the support of peers also going through detox. Our detox and withdrawal management program at NorthStar Transitions can help you safely detox as you begin your journey toward recovery. To learn more about our programs, admissions, or any other information, call (303) 558-6400. Your healing journey can start today.
