Withdrawing from drugs or alcohol can be a traumatic time when attempting to get clean without the help or professionals, the physical and mental symptoms of withdrawal can be so unforgiving that we end up relapsing. The fear of withdrawal has prevented addicts from stopping use, or seeking treatment time and time again.

Withdrawal And Detox

Drug withdrawal occurs when a person addicted to drugs stops using, it is a natural response caused within the body of some who’s become so used to taking drugs that the lack of such a substance causes severe physical and psychological reactions. Detoxification is a cleansing process which can help the body recover from withdrawal, detox is a useful tool in reducing the symptoms of drug withdrawal. Symptoms vary for different drugs, with opioids causing physical pain and benzodiazepines or barbiturates causing psychological distress including hallucinations. Drugs that are stimulants like cocaine can cause depression and extreme fatigue. These symptoms are serious and can be deadly, the level of how severe the symptoms all depends on which type of drug and how intense the dependency on the drug was.

Should I Withdraw Under Medical Supervision?

Absolutely, yes! Drug users should always detox in a clinical facility such as a hospital or accredited rehab in order to manage drug withdrawal.

The process of withdrawal can cause a severe threat to health, which is why it should be done in a facility with trained professionals who can manage the risk. Inpatient treatment centers such as hospitals or rehab facilities can provide full-time care for the person in recovery, with doctors and nurses who are able to give appropriate medications if needed.

Outpatient services are also provided for people with less severe drug afflictions, although it is important to keep in mind that someone should always be keeping watch over the patient. Visits to the care provider should be made daily or multiple times a week, with the option of hospitalization on hand if necessary. Attentive care and supervision of withdrawal symptoms is the key to minimizing the risk of relapse.

As a drug addict you need to be aware that it will not be easy to kick such a deeply embedded habit, you must be strongly driven to make permanent change which is why it is crucial to be a part of a treatment pathway that promotes active support. Group therapy is endlessly helpful in this aspect, you are much more likely to overcome your addictions when you’re surrounded by like-minded people who are encouraging you on your path to success.

You Can Do It!

Dealing with drug abuse and addiction can feel like the end of the world, but the positives outweigh the negatives on this journey to a new life. You may find that the support of a managed clinical rehab facility is exactly what you’ve needed all along, or that there’s someone in your recovery group who inspires you to keep making the changes needed to succeed in your recovery goals. Beating an addiction is never easy, but finding a supportive environment is the best place to start. You can do it, go get em’ tiger!