Detoxification is when you want to get rid of something you are accustomed to that is not a natural chemical of the body, such as drugs and alcohol. Detox for drugs and alcohol is mostly approached with shame and regret by many addicts, which should not be the case since they are taking steps to a better life without the substance. And besides that, they usually have an immense fear of what they may encounter at the detox centers because the stories that are out there can be scary. So much so, many shy off. 

This piece aims to bring a clearer picture of how the whole process is carried out from the moment one steps into the center to the moment they walk out free of the substance. So read on to find out more.

Assessment

The first stage you have to go through when you get to a detox center is to get an assessment review, which entails both physically and mentally. The doctors and other medical personnel in the establishment have to know exactly where you fall on the spectrum of addiction. During the assessment, reviews like blood tests and a talk with a psychiatrist are mandatory so that you can be placed in the best care. Information like how long you have been battling addiction and the extent of the drug or alcohol effects will be established in this stage.

Withdrawal

The next stage is where the actual work is, and it is, unfortunately, the phase that most addicts dread. Here is when you are kept at the detox center under close supervision and kept away from the substance you are trying to get rid of. During this phase, people experience withdrawal symptoms, which may vary according to the substance abused and the person receiving treatment. Every story is different as our bodies react differently. Some people might experience sweats and scratching healing from alcoholism, while another battle headaches and depression.

Medication

Medication can come during withdrawal, where you are given certain medicines to ease the symptoms, but sometimes, you might have to wait until the drug is out of your system. All in all, every piece of medication given and prescribed is necessary, and anything else is avoided. Things like pain killers are common medications given in detox centers; anything stronger is discouraged.

Aftercare

The aftercare comes after someone emerges victorious after withdrawal and medication stages. They are no longer dependent on the drug or alcohol at this stage, but they may still indulge since cravings may linger. And that is where aftercare comes in. Here, you may be subjected to medications to take from home, weekly drug tests, therapy sessions, and group sessions to keep one sober and clean. This is the most important part of keeping one straight.

Take away

The four stages are the main phases addicts undergo when they visit the detox centers, and it is through them, they emerge on the other side a different person. Ideally, a person comes out willing to stay clean and free from drug and alcoholic dependency.