Detoxing before you are able to receive treatment for your addiction is a necessary step. Unfortunately, this step in your recovery has the potential to be an uncomfortable experience. There are many different factors that play into what your overall detox experience will entail. Knowing some of what to expect could help with any anxiety surrounding going into the detox process. It is important you are aware that the amount of time it takes to detox depends on a few different variables, but there are some ways you can prepare yourself before the process begins.
What to Expect During the Detox Process
According to the National Library of Medicine,
“Detoxification is a set of interventions aimed at managing acute intoxication and withdrawal.”
The detox process is needed before you begin treatment because when you have been using substances for an extended amount of time, your body will have adjusted to having the substance(s) present. Depending on how long you have been using drugs or alcohol, the length of the detox process will vary. One change you can be prepared for during the process could include mental changes. This means detoxing can cause mood swings, anxiety, or even depression.
Some other experiences you may have while in the detoxing process could include physical changes. You may have physical symptoms similar to the flu. Another side effect of detoxing could include cravings for substances. This can all be uncomfortable but will be worth it in the end.
It is important you know that at Renaissance Ranch, you will be under the supervision of licensed doctors and nurses to ensure you remain safe during the process. Each individual going through detox will also have their own private room. This can help with overall comfortability during a possibly difficult time. We want to stress that detoxing too quickly or without supervision can be dangerous. Having doctors and nurses present can allow for your symptoms to be monitored closely. This can also include any potential mental health symptoms.
Withdrawal Symptoms and the Detox Process
Withdrawal is the symptoms, both physical and psychological that occur during the detox process. Withdrawal symptoms while detoxing can vary depending on what substance or substances you are detoxing from. Some common symptoms can include:
- Nausea
- Sweating
- Vomiting
- Insomnia
- Irritability
- Cravings
- Body aches
Withdrawal occurs because your brain and/or body have become dependent on the substance(s). As previously mentioned, the length of time detoxing will take depends on some variables. It can last 2-5 days at a time, but there are some cases that take longer. Throughout your detoxing process, there are ways to manage the uncomfortable symptoms to an extent.
When detoxing from alcohol, approximately 6-12 hours after the last drink, symptoms of withdrawal can begin. Withdrawal symptoms when detoxing from other substances can occur anywhere between a few hours to a few days after the last use of the substance. Sometimes, managing the distress from detoxing can include distractions. This can look different for each individual. Some examples include having reading materials available and watching TV or movies.
Withdrawal can seem scary to some and we understand at Renaissance Ranch that no one wants to feel sick. Keeping in mind what you are detoxing for can be important to your journey. We believe that ultimately, detoxing will be a short amount of time spent uncomfortable in comparison to the life you are gaining by becoming sober. Our alumni can attest to this.
Tips to Prepare for Detox
It is no secret that the detox process has the potential to be unpleasant, but going into the process aware of what could occur can be helpful. You can prepare for detoxing ahead of time in many different ways. Knowing you may have flu-like symptoms like chills or sweating, means having comfortable clothes on hand to wear during the process could help.
Self-care is important throughout your entire sobriety journey. Before the detox process, some ways you can incorporate self-care could include ensuring you are getting adequate and quality sleep, and eating a variety of healthy foods. Drinking enough water before and during the detox process is also important.
Because detoxing can be difficult on your mental health, some education on recovery may be helpful. Another thing to consider could be taking the time to read about other’s experiences with their sobriety. This may be motivational in the thick of the difficult moments. After detoxing, you will be moved into your treatment program. Depending on your needs, you may be in an outpatient or inpatient program. Keep in mind, everyone’s recovery journey is different but there are going to be some shared experiences, especially when detoxing. We believe every individual is deserving of recovery, don’t let the fear of detox deter you.
We believe everyone deserves to recover from addiction. One step that may be worrisome before treatment begins could be the detox process. This is a necessary but potentially uncomfortable step in your recovery. We know it can be difficult on the mind and body when going through the detox process. We want to assure you that we can help. Our medical staff of licensed doctors and nurses will monitor you throughout the detox process to ensure you stay safe. Knowing what to expect during detox can help relieve some anxiety about the process. Please call (801) 308-8898 for more information on how we can help you with the detox process.