If you’re thinking about stopping drug use, you may wonder what happens next. One of the biggest concerns for people entering recovery is withdrawal. The truth is, drug withdrawal symptoms can be challenging—but with the right help, they are manageable.
At Mississippi Drug and Alcohol Treatment Center, we guide you through every step of the detox process. Let’s explore what withdrawal really means, how it affects your body and mind, and why supervised detox matters.
What Are Drug Withdrawal Symptoms?
Drug withdrawal symptoms are the physical and mental effects that occur after stopping or reducing substance use. When someone has used a drug regularly, their body adjusts to its presence. When that drug is suddenly removed, the brain and body react.
These symptoms can range from mild discomfort to serious medical emergencies. The type of drug, how long it was used, and your individual health all play a role in what withdrawal looks like for you.
Physical and Mental Symptoms of Withdrawal
Here are some of the most common drug withdrawal symptoms:
Physical symptoms:
- Nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea
- Sweating and chills
- Headache or muscle aches
- Tremors or shaking
- Sleep problems
- High blood pressure or heart rate changes
Mental and emotional symptoms:
- Anxiety or depression
- Mood swings
- Cravings for the drug
- Irritability or restlessness
- Confusion or trouble focusing
Some substances come with unique risks. For example, benzodiazepine withdrawal can cause seizures, and alcohol withdrawal may lead to delirium tremens—a life-threatening condition.
How Long Do Withdrawal Symptoms Last?
There is no one-size-fits-all timeline for withdrawal. Each substance leaves the body differently:
- Opioids (like heroin or fentanyl): Symptoms begin in 6–12 hours and peak in 2–3 days.
- Alcohol: Withdrawal can start within 6 hours and, in severe cases, involve dangerous complications around day 3.
- Benzodiazepines: Symptoms may last several weeks and tapering is usually needed.
- Stimulants (like meth or cocaine): Withdrawal is more psychological and can last 1–2 weeks.
In some cases, people may experience Post-Acute Withdrawal Syndrome (PAWS). These long-term symptoms—like anxiety, sleep disruption, and irritability—can last for months after detox.
Why Is Withdrawal So Hard?
Drugs alter your brain’s chemistry over time. When the drug is removed, the brain struggles to regain balance. This process triggers drug withdrawal symptoms as your nervous system reacts.
Here’s what’s happening inside your body:
- Dopamine levels drop, which affects mood and motivation.
- The stress system becomes overactive, causing anxiety and irritability.
- Physical systems like digestion and sleep become unstable.
It’s no surprise that many people relapse during this phase. But with medical support, the process becomes much safer and more manageable.
The Importance of Medically Supervised Detox
Detoxing on your own can be dangerous. At Mississippi Drug and Alcohol Treatment Center, our detox program provides 24/7 medical care and emotional support during withdrawal.
We offer:
- Medication to relieve pain, cravings, and insomnia
- Monitoring of vital signs and mental health
- Comfort measures to help you stay calm and rested
- A safe, private, and compassionate environment
Medical detox helps prevent serious complications like seizures, hallucinations, or suicidal thoughts, which can occur with alcohol or benzo withdrawal. More importantly, it gives you a stable foundation to begin your recovery.
What Comes After Detox?
Detox is just the first step in healing. After your body clears the drug, you need support for your mental and emotional health.
At MSDATC, most clients transition into our Intensive Outpatient Program (IOP). This next phase of care includes:
- Group and individual therapy
- Coping skills and relapse prevention
- Family support and aftercare planning
Our goal is to help you build a life beyond substance use—one day at a time.
When to Get Help for Withdrawal
You should never go through drug withdrawal alone. If you experience any of the following, it’s time to seek help:
- History of heavy or long-term drug use
- Physical health issues or psychiatric concerns
- Thoughts of self-harm or suicide
- Use of alcohol, benzodiazepines, or opioids
Even mild symptoms can escalate quickly. Supervised detox ensures your safety while giving you the care and encouragement needed to keep going.
Start Healing from Drug Withdrawal Symptoms Today
Withdrawal may feel overwhelming, but it doesn’t have to stop you from getting better. With medical care, guidance, and compassion, you can make it through and come out stronger.
At Mississippi Drug and Alcohol Treatment Center, we’re here to help you take the first step toward recovery. Our team is experienced in managing drug withdrawal symptoms and guiding you into long-term treatment.
Connect with us today and start your recovery with confidence.
(855) 334-6120
MississippiDATC.com
13251 Reece Bergeron Road, Biloxi, MS 39532
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