Drug and alcohol abuse often cause people to become dependent on addictive substances, physically and psychologically. When they stop abusing these substances, they experience drug withdrawal symptoms. It’s these symptoms that may lead to relapse because they’re so uncomfortable. Knowing what to expect when you quit using can ease your mind about getting clean.
Typical Drug Withdrawal Symptoms
Many people want to stop abusing drugs and alcohol. However, when they abstain from using, they feel such discomfort, even pain, that they’re driven back to using. Their bodies have become accustomed to having the drug, so when it’s absent, they react in painful ways.
However, going through the process of detox is a requirement toward living a drug-free life. Some facilities provide withdrawal management services to make detox more comfortable for their clients.
What are some drug withdrawal symptoms you might experience when you stop using? They include:
- Head and body aches
- Nausea and vomiting
- Abdominal pain
- Paranoia and hallucinations
- Seizures
- Delirium tremens (DTs), typically in those with long-term alcohol addiction
Naturally, the longer someone has abused drugs, the more severe his symptoms will be. Those with short-term addictions may not have intense symptoms, but it’s still recommended to detox in a qualified facility. Medical professionals can monitor you constantly, which is much safer than trying to detox at home.
Detox Isn’t Forever
Despite drug withdrawal symptoms that range from mild to painfully frightening, keep in mind that detox isn’t a long process. It can certainly feel that way when you’re experiencing the most intense symptoms, but generally, the worst you’ll feel will come on day two or three. After about a week of being clean, you begin to feel much better.
Is it enough to stop using? Does that mean you’re over your addiction?
As vital as detox is, it’s just the first step to long-term recovery. The therapies and treatment you receive in rehab give you the crucial skills you need to manage a sober life.
While detox is short-lived, you may have cravings for a long time afterward. Getting effective treatment is the best way to truly overcome drug and alcohol addiction and avoid relapse.
Begin Your Dream With Us
Pillars Recovery treats young men and women in gender-separate treatment centers in Orange County, California. We provide highly effective, individualized care that addresses each client’s specific needs. Our Triple Diagnosis program treats addiction, chronic pain, and mental health disorders simultaneously.
The addiction treatment programs we offer include:
- Drug detox program
- Medication assisted treatment program
- Residential treatment
- Intensive Outpatient Program (IOP)
- Depression treatment program
Our skilled team is ready to provide you with compassionate, supportive care. With our guidance, you’ll begin the healing process from the damaging effects of addiction and learn positive ways to avoid relapse. You can meet your inspiring goal of lasting sobriety when you partner with us. Call today to learn more at 866-782-0247.
