The withdrawal process is the most anxiety-provoking for many people who want to quit drugs or alcohol. While withdrawal is not comfortable or fun, it is possible with the proper support and medical care. Withdrawing from drugs or alcohol in a medically-supervised program is called detoxing. Studies show that, as a first step in the process of addiction recovery, it can be highly effective. There are many possible side effects of detoxifying, and it can help relieve anxiety if you have a better idea of what to expect. With the help of a drug withdrawal management program in New Hampshire, like the one we offer at Liberty Health Services, it is possible to begin the recovery process. Call us at 855.959.4521 for more information.
What Is Medically-Supervised Drug Detox?
Unfortunately, there are many potential side effects of withdrawal from drugs or alcohol. Medical supervision can help keep the client as safe and comfortable as possible. Most medically-supervised detox programs are residential, meaning that the client will stay there during the entire detox process. While the client is there, medical staff will monitor their status to ensure they are doing well and tolerating the withdrawal process. In addition, therapeutic staff members will care for the client to help manage some of the emotional difficulties that can occur during withdrawal.
There are medically-supervised detox programs for most substances, including:
- Alcohol
- Opioids
- Benzodiazepines
- Cocaine
- Stimulants
- Prescription medications
- Synthetic drugs
- Marijuana
- Heroin
- Methamphetamines
Withdrawal symptoms of many drugs are unpleasant and sometimes unsafe, including tremors, vomiting, diarrhea, fevers, and more. Still, a full detox is essential for the recovery process. While detoxing has its side effects, too, with professional help and support, those symptoms will be monitored and managed to get you through it as comfortably as possible.
What Are the Side Effects of Detoxifying?
Every individual’s withdrawal experience is different because every human body is a little bit different. Furthermore, the side effects that a person is likely to experience can vary depending on what substances the person has been using. How long they have been using, how much they have been using, and their general physical and mental health can also affect the process.
Some of the side effects that a person might experience while going through drug or alcohol detox may include:
- Nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea
- Sleep disturbances or insomnia
- Anxiety, depression, and other psychiatric symptoms
- Shaking and sweating
- Intense drug or alcohol cravings
- Seizures or convulsions
- Difficulty focusing or paying attention to tasks
Individuals who have gone through the detoxification process say it was worth it to be able to return to a healthy, addiction-free life.
How Does Medical Supervision Help During Addiction Detox?
Unfortunately, no single medicine or treatment can remove the symptoms and side effects of drug and alcohol withdrawal. However, some medications and treatments can help relieve some of the worst symptoms. Also, medical staff can help alleviate anxious feelings and concerns by reassuring the client that they are safe and in good health. The therapeutic treatments and counseling offered by care staff at a medically-supervised detox program can assist the client with their mindset. It can also make sure that their mental and emotional health is being well-managed.
What Will Happen After Addiction Detox Is Over?
Most medically-supervised detox programs will have a treatment program for people who have undergone addiction detox. After the client has completed their medically-supervised detox, they will transition into a new stage of care. This treatment program focuses on helping them heal from the trauma of addiction and building new skills and strategies to help the client maintain their sobriety. Studies show that people who complete a full treatment program, from detox to outpatient aftercare, have the best chance of maintaining their recovery. They’re also more successful in holding a job, having stable housing, and overall good outcomes.
Enroll in Detox at Liberty Health Services
If you or a loved one are thinking about quitting, but are worried about the side effects of detoxing from drugs or alcohol, reach out to a medical detox center near you. If you are near Nashua, New Hampshire, we at Liberty Health Services in Derry, New Hampshire help our clients find their way back to health and sobriety. Our medically-supervised detox program is ready to help, so contact our caring and compassionate staff at 855.959.4521 or via our online form.
