Drug and alcohol detoxification, more commonly referred to as detox, is the process in which your body processes out substances and harmful chemicals. Once the person struggling with addiction stops using, the detox period begins and continues in the days and weeks following. The symptoms and overall experience can differ greatly from one person to another. What drugs were used is one of the greatest factors that influences what symptoms may develop, but numerous other factors can play a role in the severity and difficulty of detoxification.
An individual who is not just addicted to a drug, but also has developed a physical dependence on a substance is likely to develop an array of withdrawal symptoms. These symptoms are best managed at a medical detoxification center where healthcare providers are present and provide 24/7 observation. Access to medications, IV fluids, and continuous monitoring can not only help minimize discomfort associated with withdrawal but can actually be life-saving in some cases.
Addictions that commonly require medical detox include:
- Alcohol
- Opioids
- Cocaine
- Methamphetamine
- Benzodiazepines
Common withdrawal symptoms
- Cravings
- Nausea & vomiting
- Diarrhea
- Chills
- Fever
Detoxing at Home
Some may have a desire to stay home through the detoxification process. Although this option may sound more convenient or more pleasant than being admitted to a detox facility, this is not always the case. It is impossible to know beforehand exactly what symptoms will develop and how severe they will be. The resources the everyday person has a home are extremely limited compared to what would be available at a detox center. Additionally, someone who is detoxing may not be able to care for themselves during the first several days. Do you have someone at home who can care for you and will they be available 24/7 until you are able to care for yourself? Even if you do have a reliable loved one to provide care, detox can lead to symptoms such as hallucinations, mood swings, and even seizures. In the event of these types of symptoms, it can become a dangerous situation for both the person detoxing and their caretaker. Lastly, there is nothing preventing you from leaving your home during detox and relapsing. You may even have a spare stash of drugs hidden where your loved ones don’t know. Ultimately, the risk of danger when detoxing at home is significantly greater than detoxing at a trusted facility.
How a New Jersey Drug and Alcohol Detox Center Can Help
Moving Mountains Recovery has close relationships with trusted detox facilities in New Jersey and across the country. When medical detoxification is recommended, we can help you get admitted to the best facility for your needs. Following the completion of detox, we can also help make the transition to our outpatient treatment programs simple and easy.
