Why Detox Is The Hardest Part Of Overcoming Addiction
Addiction is a complex condition that requires a staged approach to recovery. The first step is to remove the drugs and alcohol from the body so that the individual can begin the process of healing and learning new coping skills. However, detox is the most difficult part of overcoming addiction. Here’s what you should know.
The Physical Detox Process
Detoxing is a process by which an individual's body is cleansed of the drug or alcohol. Individuals who go through detox experience a range of physical symptoms that may require medical intervention, such as:
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Tremors
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Headaches
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Nausea
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Sleeplessness
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Irritability
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Muscle cramping
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Changes in heart rate and breathing pattern
Withdrawal symptoms vary from person to person, so the detox process may be worse for some than others.
Medical Support is Critical
The body of a person who is addicted to drugs and alcohol is dependent on the substance to function. Decreasing the levels of these substances in the body can be compared to gradually reducing oxygen intake. Vital organs are depleted of the substance and the symptoms range from mild to life-threatening.
The Emotional Side of Detox
Recovery treatment has evolved to recognize that drug and alcohol dependence is a method of coping with mental health conditions, such as anxiety, trauma, depression, and OCD. As the drugs and alcohol leave the body, the individual no longer has the effects of these substances to cover up any psychological and mental health issues that they face. This is the most difficult part of detox because the person now has to experience the emotions that have remained hidden behind drugs and alcohol.
Detox is Difficult and Necessary
The combination of detoxing and uncovering mental health issues is key to recovery. Cleansing the body of drugs and alcohol provides the individual with a clear thought process. The experience of facing the emotional issues that have remained hidden, although difficult, gives the person the clarity needed to move forward on a path of sobriety.
Detox Services for Recovery
Providing clinical and emotional support during detox ensures a successful beginning to a lifelong commitment to staying clean. Individuals who face addiction often feel isolated and alone because they have poor support systems or they do not know how to manage the emotional issues that arise when they are not using their preferred drug of choice. Seeing detox as the genesis for recovery is a more effective approach, as it recognizes the complexity of addiction and the unique needs of each person.
Addiction is difficult to face alone. For more information on scheduling counselling services, contact us at Mind & Body Christian Health Group.