Detox & Withdrawal

Detox is the first phase of recovery from addiction. The removal of all traces of toxic substances, such as drugs or alcohol, from your system can come with many uncomfortable and intense withdrawal symptoms. Everyone’s detox needs are different and the process should be tailored to ensure you get personalised treatment.

image-cc10755c67db44c34a5f36edc7d680d5561e5ce7-1024x684-jpg

What is a Detox?

Detox is the process of allowing your body to remove all traces of toxic substances, such as drugs or alcohol, from an individuals system if they are physically dependent. From the type of substance misused to the length and severity of the abuse, detox will be different for everyone.

The time it takes to detox varies from person to person and programmes should be personalised accordingly. Detox is the first phase of recovery from addiction. It addresses the physical dependence, allows the body to withdraw from the substance and puts the individual in the best position to commence ongoing addiction treatment and therapy.

Treatment Advisor Scott Ardley and Hannah Levi taking part in residential rehab

Is Detox the same as Rehab?

The first phase of a rehab treatment programme tends to be detox. The body needs to be cleared of drugs or alcohol. Residential rehabs require clients to be drug or alcohol free before starting the treatment and therapy phase of their programme. Detox is just one element of the addiction rehabilitation process.

Some people may be able to detox at home as part of outpatient rehabilitation and support. For the majority of people and particularly those with severe addictions, detox in a residential rehab centre is more appropriate. Inpatient detox provides round-the-clock support, medical monitoring and is often the safest and most comfortable way to complete the process.

Attempting to detox without medical supervision can lead to serious health issues and detoxing from alcohol can be dangerous due to withdrawal. Detoxing at rehab with experienced specialists can help with the management of unpleasant withdrawal symptoms and medication can be administered as required.

Detox is the first phase of recovery from addiction but it does not address the many associated psychological, social and behavioural problems.

Jakana Rita Therapist for Rehabs UK facilitating group therapy

The Detox Process

Initial Assessment

Everyone’s needs are different. New admissions to rehab are screened for physical and mental health issues. Blood tests can measure the level of drugs or alcohol in your system, which helps to determine whether medication is required during the detox process.

Decision on Detox Method

A comprehensive review of your substance use and medical and psychiatric histories will decide what detox methods will be bested suited to you. This information also forms the basis for your longer-term treatment and therapy plan.

Physical Withdrawal (Detoxification)

It’s important to be in an environment that’s safe and supportive when going through withdrawal. A medically-monitored detox can stabilise you to prevent any form of harm. Doctors are able to prescribe medication, which helps to prevent complications and reduce the intensity of unpleasant withdrawal symptoms.

Psychological Withdrawal

The physical symptoms of withdrawal do not occur in isolation. Psychological symptoms, such as depression and anxiety, can be equally distressing. Being in a supportive environment with specialists who understand addiction can help to aid recovery. You may also be treated medically for any co-occurring mental health issues.

Long-term Recovery

The final step of detox is preparation for your ongoing treatment and therapy programme. Staff will ensure you are familiar with the process ahead and answer all your questions so that you know what to expect from recovery.

What’s the Difference between Detox and Withdrawal?

Withdrawal is the process your body goes through when you stop consuming the substance you were regularly using. Many different symptoms can occur as a consequence. What exactly is experienced and to what intensity depends on the type of substance abused and the duration and extent of use.

Detox is the period of time during which the substance is removed from your system. It includes the withdrawal process, coping with the accompanying symptoms and taking care of the body until the substance is out of your system.

image-21bd8410a5c11bef4ad75dc6e37d9173e97ec3ba-1080x1080-png

How Long Does a Detox Take?

The length and intensity of detox depends on several factors. The type of substance used primarily determines how the detox will develop. Equally, the duration and frequency of use plays a pivotal part. The longer and more frequent the use, the more likely that a physical reliance has taken hold. Regular and frequent use of some drugs, such as benzodiazepines and opioids can lead to a physical addiction in as little as 6 to 8 weeks.

On average, the detox process lasts between 7 and 10 days for a substance such as alcohol. Drugs like Heroin is renowned for the intense withdrawal symptoms it induces so can take up to 28 days to detox. However, for most people, even the worst of those symptoms will subside in 5 to 7 days. It’s important to remember that withdrawal symptoms will pass.

Are you ready to get help?