Addiction is rife in the US, with around 48 million people hooked on illicit substances, and many more addicted to alcohol. Going through drug detox is often the first step towards recovery, but it can be an extremely challenging process both physically and mentally. Understanding what to expect during detox can help make the experience more manageable.
The Difficulty of Withdrawal Symptoms
When someone who is addicted stops taking a drug they are dependent on, they will experience withdrawal symptoms. Withdrawal symptoms can begin just hours after the last dose of a drug and can last for weeks or even months depending on the substance.
Some of the most common withdrawal symptoms include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, anxiety, depression, insomnia, drug cravings, headaches, tremors, and sweating. The severity of these symptoms often depends on factors like how long the addiction lasted, the typical dose used, and the type of drug. Withdrawal from opioids, alcohol, and benzodiazepines can be especially challenging.
The intensity of withdrawal symptoms usually peaks within the first week and then gradually improves over the subsequent days or weeks. However, some symptoms like insomnia and drug cravings may persist for months after detox. Medications and therapy can help manage symptoms during the detox process.
The Difficulty of Drug Cravings
Cravings for the abused substance are one of the most mentally challenging parts of detox. These cravings can be so intense that the person feels they would do almost anything to get the drug. Cravings may be triggered by people, places, or things associated with past drug use.
Coping strategies like distraction, exercise, and relaxation techniques can help. Anti-craving medications may also be used. But it takes tremendous willpower and determination to get through detox without giving in to the desire to use drugs again. Having a strong support system is crucial.
The Risk of Relapse
The risk of relapse is extremely high during detox and early recovery. In fact, over 85% of people relapse within a year after getting clean. The allure of drugs is still very powerful during this time period. Recurring withdrawal symptoms and cravings make it extremely difficult to stay committed to sobriety, even when the person wants to get clean.
Having a relapse prevention plan with strategies to avoid triggers, control cravings, and deal with anxiety is imperative. Following up detox with substance abuse counseling provides the ongoing support and accountability needed for long-term recovery. Recognizing that relapse is common can help deter people from getting too discouraged.
The Reward of Getting Clean
While detox is certainly difficult both physically and mentally, it offers the promise of a life free of addiction. Pushing through the misery of withdrawal symptoms provides the opportunity to regain health, mend relationships, pursue dreams, and find joy in everyday activities again. It is a difficult process, but also an extremely rewarding one. Having the right help and support makes all the difference in getting through detox and emerging on the other side clean, sober, and ready for a fresh start.
Dariel Campbell is currently an English instructor at a university. She has experience in teaching and assessing English tests including TOEFL, IELTS, BULATS, FCE, CAE, and PTEG. With over a decade of teaching expertise, Dariel Campbell utilizes his knowledge to develop English lessons for her audience on English Overview.
