The pursuit of recovery from addiction can be challenging, but very rewarding. Deciding to change your relationship with alcohol or drugs could even save your life. At the same time, you might be having a hard time envisioning what your life would be like without alcohol or drugs. It can be reassuring and helpful to learn more about what to expect.
What are the stages of detox, and what are the benefits of detox? How can a drug and alcohol detox center in Florida help you with managing withdrawal symptoms? Let’s find out.
The Stages of Drug and Alcohol Detox
Deciding to Enter Treatment
Even though this stage can happen suddenly, its importance should not be underestimated. Being brave enough to reach out for help is immensely challenging, but also necessary for recovery. Staff at the detox center will talk to you and gain an understanding of your specific needs. They will explain the program to you and answer your questions.
The Onset of Withdrawal
How soon this stage occurs will depend on several factors:
- What substances you have been using
- When your last dose was
- How heavily you have been using or drinking
Once withdrawal begins, you may experience some physical and emotional symptoms such as stomach upset, anxiety, and sleep issues. Care staff will evaluate your symptoms to see whether or not there are medications or treatments that would be appropriate to help with those symptoms.
Increased Intensity of Withdrawal Symptoms
During this stage, the discomfort may be at its most intense. Staff will continue to monitor you to make sure you are resting as comfortably as possible. You may also experience additional symptoms of withdrawal. Some of these may be:
- Aching muscles
- Anxiety, depression, and irritability
- Trouble sleeping
- Intense drug or alcohol cravings
- Fever, chills, and sweating
Withdrawal Symptoms Decline as Detox Concludes
Symptoms of withdrawal occur as the body attempts to rebalance itself in the absence of a substance it was used to having. As this process concludes and the body achieves homeostasis once more, the symptoms of withdrawal decline.
At this time, you will feel more able to participate in activities. It is very important to continue treatment, even if you are feeling significantly better, because the roots of addiction are still there, even if the substance isn’t.
Symptoms May Persist in the Form of Post-Acute Withdrawal Syndrome (PAWS)
Even though your body has cleared itself of the addictive substance, some of the changes caused by drugs and alcohol can last beyond their presence in the body. Some people experience symptoms for weeks or months beyond the end of detox, which can hinder the recovery process. However, sticking with treatment and relying on your support network can help you get through this experience.
The Benefits of Detox
Even though the process isn’t easy, the rewards are many. Here are some of the benefits you might experience from undergoing treatment at a drug and alcohol detox center:
- Your health will improve when you stop using substances that are harming it
- You will meet peers and staff who can help you build up your support system
- Participation in treatment gives you the best shot at achieving a lasting recovery
Recovery Bay Can Help You or a Loved One Detox
Our treatment center in Panama City, Florida serves men ages 18 and up who are struggling with addiction, substance abuse, and mental health issues. We pride ourselves on our supportive and diverse recovery community, where our clients will heal from addiction in a “vacation-style” program.
We are unlike any other treatment program, so reach out to our caring and helpful staff today at 833.991.2955 and let us show you the difference.