What is a Substance Abuse Detox Center?

man in hoodie with arms on knees, substance abuse detox programs stuart flThe sad truth is that most attempts at escaping addiction never make it beyond the detox stage. It isn’t so much the actual discomfort that is the problem, but knowing that it would be so easy to escape this discomfort with a fix. If you were dealing with flu symptoms, you would probably just get on with things because you know you have no other choice. What makes withdrawals so much harder is you know you have a choice.

If you can make it through this first major hurdle, you can greatly increase the likelihood of achieving lasting recovery from addiction. If you have any questions about withdrawal or detox, call 772.773.1336.

Detox is a process that rids the body of drugs, alcohol, and any other harmful chemical substance. Because this can be an extremely harmful and dangerous process, it is best that it is done under the supervision of medically-trained detoxification specialists.

The human body has an amazing ability to adapt. Drugs can have a harmful effect on every internal system, but the body responds by developing a tolerance to these substances as best it can. It is this attempt at adaptation that explains why over time we will usually need to increase our dosage of the drug we are abusing to get the same effect.

The body becomes so used to functioning with drugs in our system that it is initially thrown into shock if we stop using these substance abruptly. This is easier to understand if we use an example, so let’s examine what happens if we become addicted to cocaine. Regular use of this drug changes how receptors in your brain reuptakes a chemical called dopamine – it means your brain becomes used to dealing with high levels of dopamine and when this chemical is suddenly reduced, your body needs to learn how to adapt to this new state. Addiction tends to be both physical and psychological. The physical symptoms can include things like body aches, sweating, nausea and vomiting, diarrhea, headaches, restless legs, insomnia, headache, and shaking. Severe physical symptoms can include convulsions and dangerously elevated vital signs (e.g. blood pressure). The most obvious psychological symptom is cravings, but there can also be feelings of anxiety, depression, paranoia, and irritability.

The Process at a Substance Abuse Detox Center

journey to recovery sign (graphic), substance abuse detox programs stuart flAt the medical detoxification facility, you will undergo an admissions process. You meet our team of advisors who will work with you during your detoxification. Throughout this process, you will go through your prior drug and alcohol usage and history of addiction. You will get a complete physical exam to recognize any and all conditions that need to be dealt with while going through detox. This is done so that your therapist can create a unique recovery plan based on your needs.

Many times during detox there are a series of health issues that will arise, the most common being malnutrition and dehydration. The detox process can take anywhere from several days to several weeks, depending on your substance of choice and the longevity and severity of use. Our medical staff may administer “detox medication” to help suppress cravings and to deal with the symptoms of withdrawal.

Several different medications can be given during the detox process. All of these medications are carefully administered by licensed medical professionals and are designed to ease the painful detox process. Any time a patient is given medication, they will be closely monitored for any adverse reaction.

Upon completing the detox treatment, the medical team will provide recommendations on the potential next level of care needed to support your recovery.

Entering a residential detox is one decision you will not want to take lightly. Expect the benefits of taking this step to outweigh any cost or inconvenience. There are some compelling reasons why detox is necessary, and it is important that you consider these so you can make an informed choice.

Residential Detox Keeps You Safe

People have died when trying to detox unsupervised. The process of detoxification can be a severe shock to your body, and it can lead to elevated vital signs (e.g. pulse and blood pressure) and possibly even convulsions. By staying in a residential detox, you can be supervised and kept safe throughout the detox process.

Residential Detox Keeps You Comfortble

The environment in which you go through withdrawals is going to make a huge difference to how you experience the process. This is why at Wellness Counseling & Residential Detox, we provide a good level of safety and comfort. There will be plenty of things going on to keep your mind occupied, and you will also have the company of other clients and detox professionals.

Residential Detox Keeps You Motivated

The fact that you may be highly motivated at the beginning of your detox is no guarantee that you will see it through to the end. Withdrawals can get uncomfortable, and you will also be dealing with thinking processes that support the addictive behavior. The fact that you know how easy it would be to escape the discomfort (by getting a hit, fix, or drink) only increases the temptation to relapse. By staying in a residential detox, you will be protected from temptation, and there will be professionals and other clients there to keep you motivated and focused on your goal.

Residential Detox Prepares You for the Next Stage in Recovery

Detox is the first stage in recovery from addiction. Wellness Counseling & Residential Detox’s programs are designed to not only help you pass easily through withdrawal, but also to help you create a solid foundation for your new life. Our continuing care program will help you ensure that you continue taking the right steps towards a better future.

Detox is one of the most crucial steps in recovery. It is during this time that your mind and body begin to realize it will not be given the chemical substance that it is craving. During this time, your physical reactions and emotions are heightened. The easiest way to make this transition is through a medically-supervised detox program.

There are numerous dangers to detoxing on your own, the most severe being death. It is important that you not try to detox on your own after any period of drug and/or alcohol use. Symptoms of self-detox may include:

  • Sweating
  • Vomiting
  • Hallucinations
  • Seizures
  • Heart Attacks