The first step to recovering from addiction is detoxification. For many struggling with addiction, the idea of detox symptoms can be intimidating and cause fear. However, it does not have to be that way. With the right mindset and the right detox setting, you do not have to be afraid of the process of detoxing.
What is Detoxification?
Detoxification is the process of ridding your body of illicit, addictive substances. The process of getting rid of these substances, such as alcohol and drugs, is crucial for becoming sober. Detox is the very first step in becoming sober. The process of detoxing off of drugs or alcohol can look different, however, it ends with the same goal: to bring a person to a clean and sober state so that they can achieve long-lasting recovery.
The fear of detox is usually associated with the first few days of symptoms that come along with it. The first few days after you quit using drugs or alcohol, detox symptoms will range from mild to severe, depending on each individual’s state. When detoxing off of drugs, a person might experience anxiety, headaches, muscle aches, chills, nausea and vomiting, fatigue and confusion. When detoxing off of alcohol, a person might experience anxiety, nausea, body tremors, irritability and hallucinations. While these symptoms may seem scary, they do not have to be.
In one article, a writer describes an addict’s fear of detox symptoms. “Perhaps their biggest fear is of detox. When the disease progresses to the point that addicts make nearly daily resolutions to quit, the intense fear of detox kicks in with overwhelming force. That fear keeps them from following through with their resolutions no matter how sincere they were when they made them,” it reads.
For many who are struggling with addiction, the fear of detox keeps them from getting to recovery. They may want to quit, but out of fear, they continue to use and feed their addiction. It does not have to be this way. Detox can be safe and comfortable.
How to Overcome a Fear of Detox Symptoms
The most important component of detoxing is being in the right setting. Medically-supervised detox is the safest, most comfortable way to start your process toward recovery. A team of skilled healthcare professionals will assess your specific needs. This evaluation helps the medical professionals to best assist you by giving the detox treatment that best suits your needs. They will also monitor your progress and help relieve any symptoms you may have. Through the process of getting sober, medically-supervised detox is the best way to ensure safety and comfort.
Along with being medically-supervised, it is important to go into detox with the right mindset. Being surrounded by supportive, caring staff and peers can have a tremendous positive affect on a person’s experience through detox.
Beginning Your Detox Journey
Do you or someone you know need detox? At Morningside Recovery, we strive to make detox as comfortable and safe as possible so you can overcome your fear of detox. We take every client’s individual needs into consideration and personalize their treatment through detox and beyond. In our California luxury detox facility, we offer the best residential detox programs Orange County has to offer. To learn more, call us today at 855-283-3118.
