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The Drug and Alcohol Detox Process

Dealing with a drug addiction or alcoholism can be incredibly difficult. Going through the withdrawal process to rid yourself of such an addiction can be beneficial to both your physical and mental well-being. While it is easy to see why overcoming dependency is such an amazing experience for someone with this type of problem, the process of kicking your addiction to the curb can be scary. Fortunately, there are medical professionals who are familiar with addiction and how it can be overcome.

Detox Explained

If you're dealing with alcoholism or an addiction to drugs, you might be wondering what the detoxification process is like. Detoxification involves working through withdrawal symptoms under the supervision of medical professionals. Once you recognize that there is a problem, it is time to consider getting professional help. Trying to overcome drugs or alcohol on your own can sometimes be dangerous, simply because withdrawal symptoms can be hazardous to your health.

Drug and alcohol detox centers are trained to deal with people who are fighting alcoholism or other addictions and need assistance. Many people who give up drugs or alcohol will experience withdrawal symptoms within the first day or two of quitting their addiction. Being around medical professionals can help to ease these problems and prevent relapses.

Duration of Detox

The length of time it takes for someone to detox from drugs or alcohol completely depends on their level of addiction and their biological chemistry. A person who has been doing drugs for decades will find it harder to detox than a person who has done drugs for one year. Some treatment facilities and programs can take a week for someone to be released, while others can take 60 to 90 days.

Finding Support

Withdrawal symptoms can be scary on their own, but they typically only last for the first few days of sobriety. It is important for you to realize that even though the physical withdrawal symptoms only last for days, many people who overcome their addictions deal with anxiety and depression symptoms for months afterward. Having a friend, family member, or therapist to talk to about your issues and detoxification process can help ease the stress and anxiety that accompanies this time of change.

Last Updated: January 12, 2017