The Importance of Detox

When a person uses alcohol or drugs for an extended period of time, they become physically and mentally reliant on the substance. It becomes increasingly difficult to deny their body what it thinks it needs to function.

Once the substance abuse is stopped, a person can start to go through withdrawal — a time during which they experience physical and psychological symptoms that make it difficult for them to stop drinking or using drugs on their own. These symptoms can range from mild to severe and have the potential to be fatal if not treated under medical supervision. Examples of withdrawal symptoms include:

• Sweats

• Nausea

• Vomiting

• Tremors

• Anxiety

• Agitation

• Paranoia

• Hallucinations

• Seizures

In order to minimize the physical and psychological effects of substance withdrawal, detoxification (“detox”) — an abrupt termination of drug or alcohol intake — is highly recommended for people seeking alcohol or drug rehab treatment. Detox is a process that usually lasts a week to 10 days, during which a doctor may administer medication to help ease withdrawal symptoms and ensure the person’s safety.

The Three Steps of Detox

According to the United States Department of Health and Human Services, the process of detox includes three steps:

1. When a person starts drug or alcohol detox, they’re first tested to identify and determine the amount of specific substances currently in the bloodstream. A health professional will also evaluate the person for potential co-occurring disorders, dual diagnosis, and mental or behavioral issues.

2. During this time, the person is guided through the detox process, getting them to a state where they’re free of substances and medically stable. This step may be done with or without medication, but it’s common for medication to be used to assist with stabilizing the person.  Information is then given on what to expect during addiction treatment and the recovery process. 

3. This final step involves getting the person ready for the actual treatment and recovery process. While detoxification itself isn’t treatment, it’s an important first step in the addiction recovery process because it can be hazardous for someone to attempt to quit drinking or using drugs without medical supervision.

Addiction is a progressive disease. If left untreated, alcohol or drug addiction can have profound physical and social effects on a person and their loved ones. But with safe detox and effective addiction treatment, recovery is possible.

By Jenna Mitchell