Never cease drinking or using drugs on your own. While deciding to put an end to your substance abuse is a good thing, it should not be done alone without medical consultation and supervision. There can be severe consequences that come with abruptly stopping drinking and other substances. Choosing to go it on your own carries with it an increased risk of adverse health outcomes. Detoxing from booze and drug is the first step in the rehab process. Don’t take this step by yourself.
The medical grounds for not detoxing alone are abundant, but the physical and spiritual aspects are also powerful. First, you aren’t alone in the recovery process. The encouragement and support of family and friends form a crucial support system.
Risks of Detoxing Alone
Detoxification from drugs or alcohol is the first essential step in addiction treatment. Protracted use of alcohol or substances leads your body in many ways. Medical supervision is necessary to ensure your body detoxifies safely and without uncomfortable withdrawals. When our bodies become dependent on drugs or alcohol, our brain has become accustomed to the pleasure centers they bring. If you stop cold turkey, your body reacts to the loss. Any substance – whether it’s opioids, alcohol, coffee, or nicotine – alters the cells in your brain. The cells that once reacted instinctively to pleasure or other sensations are now altered.
For example, alcohol changes the brain response system, creating a need for the substance to signal the feeling of pleasure. The body also becomes reliant on your drug of choice(s). Withdrawal of substances indicates you are denying your brain and organs of something they rely on to feel good. The bottom line is detoxing without medical help is dangerous. In particular, people who abruptly stop drinking or using benzodiazepines after prolonged use can have seizures, along with a myriad of uncomfortable symptoms that put your body in distress.
Detox in a Florida Addiction Treatment Center
Detoxification requires expert care when you are detoxing from multiple drugs. When you are in detox at an addiction recovery center, you are kept separately from those who have completed detox, because you require a higher level of care that includes doctors and nurses. Typically, the withdrawal period should be calming and comfortable. You will have 24-hour medical care to ensure a smooth detox. However, you may feel frightened, sad, or anxious. The medical staff will explain what is happening to you in a candid, supportive manner. Relaxed detox is possible and includes a proper diet, a quiet environment and a professional, caring medical staff.
Simple Path Recovery is a beach side, boutique addiction treatment center located in Pompano Beach, FL. Recognized as a Top Florida Drug & Alcohol Rehab, Simple Path is committed to individualized care, 12-step integration, and Medication Assisted Treatment (MAT). Their addiction helpline is available 24/7 at 855-467-3625.About the Author
Matthew Koenig is the principal of Last Call Marketing, which devotes their efforts to Digital Marketing, Content Marketing, Website Design and SEO, primarily in healthcare and tourism concerns. Mr. Koenig is based out of South Florida. His sober date is June 10, 2013.
