If you are struggling with addiction to drugs or alcohol, you may wonder what your treatment options are. There are many options available, and it can be difficult to decide which is best for you. A drug or alcohol detox may be one of the most important options to consider. Our bodies are in tune with everything we put into them. Addiction affects our ability to feel and function normally, which is why it’s important to detoxify the body. This can be done by reducing the amount of alcohol in the blood or removing drugs from the system.
In a general sense, detoxifying is about minimizing the effects of drugs or alcohol on your body by weaning yourself away from a chemical craving for a certain drug. It is a medical process and cannot be accomplished by simply quitting a drug or trying a dietary cleanse. As soon as you understand the benefits of detox, you’ll realize why it’s a necessary method of treatment for addiction.
The Necessity of Seeking Professional Help
Millions of people around the globe suffer from substance abuse and addiction. The sooner you or someone you love gets professional help for addiction, the better. It is not a passing phase or simply a result of hanging out with the wrong crowd. You cannot ignore it if you or a loved one has an addiction to drugs or alcohol. The problem will not disappear when people get older, see a therapist, or assume more responsibilities in life. People of all ages, races, and backgrounds suffer from it.
Substance abuse can lead to addiction, health problems, and social isolation. Even though there are many treatment options available, drug or alcohol detoxification should always be considered as the first step toward recovery. During detoxification, the body is cleansed of harmful substances and prepared for further treatment, such as rehab. Detox may be all that is needed in some cases to overcome addiction. For most people, it is just the first step on the road to recovery.
What is Detox?
During detox, the body is cleansed of all toxins, including drugs and alcohol. People who are addicted to substances can benefit from this process, as it helps them break the physical dependence on these substances.
In the U.S., detox is often given through an inpatient program, which can last anywhere from 2 to 4 weeks or more under close supervision. This level of close monitoring is rarely possible with outpatient rehab alone. Detoxing can be a harrowing experience and medical professionals can play an integral role in easing the process. Medical professionals should oversee detox and provide supportive care during the process to ensure safety. They can better help patients with nutrition, medications, and behavioral health needs in an inpatient rehab setting.
Why Detox is Necessary Before Therapy
Without detox counseling or group therapy, it will not be effective. By detoxifying, you will be able to get the drugs and alcohol out of your system. Drug and alcohol detoxification should only be done under the supervision of a medical professional.
Once you have completed drug and alcohol detox, you can begin counseling or group therapy. You can choose from a variety of therapeutic programs, so make sure you do your research before enrolling. For example, cognitive behavioral therapy is a psycho-social intervention aimed at reducing symptoms of anxiety and depression. A professional can help you overcome your addiction and live a healthy and happy life.
The Types of Drugs Used in Medical Detox
During medical detoxification, several types of drugs are used, depending on the substance abused.
Alcohol detoxification, for example, typically involves the use of benzodiazepine, a sedative-hypnotic. Benzodiazepines reduce anxiety and seizure activity. On the other hand, opiate detoxification usually involves a drug called methadone. Methadone prevents withdrawal symptoms and cravings without causing the same high as the drug being abused. Detoxification can be difficult and uncomfortable, but it is an essential step toward recovery.
Would you like to quit your addiction to drugs or alcohol? A short medical detox may help you. Your wellness program can be kicked off with this and you can begin your journey toward a healthier lifestyle. Our team can help you understand the detox process and its benefits by calling 855-334-6120 today.
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