Embarking on the journey to recovery is a courageous decision, but it’s important to approach the process with caution. The first major step to sobriety is detoxification, the process of removing harmful substances from the body. While this process is necessary, it also involves a number of risks.
Fortunately, you can minimize or even eliminate withdrawal-related risks when you detox in a safe and supportive medical facility. Let’s learn more about the reasons why you’ll want to choose medical detox over at-home detox.
Severity of Withdrawal Symptoms
Withdrawal symptoms can vary widely depending on the substance you’re addicted to and your level of dependency. Common withdrawal symptoms include:
- Intense cravings
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Shaking
- Muscle aches
These symptoms can be incredibly uncomfortable and difficult to tolerate without intervention. Fortunately, medical detox offers medicines and therapies that can help manage these symptoms.
However, not all withdrawal symptoms are simply uncomfortable. Some, including tremors, seizures and delirium tremens, can be life threatening. Detoxing alone can put your health at risk and even cause death. Professional detox programs provide a safe environment where medical personnel can monitor and manage your symptoms.
Co-occurring Medical Conditions
Addiction often coexists with other medical conditions, such as depression, anxiety or PTSD. These conditions can complicate the detoxification process, as withdrawal symptoms may exacerbate existing health issues. For example, the anxiety that can come from withdrawal can worsen an underlying anxiety disorder.
In a professional setting, healthcare professionals can assess and manage these conditions simultaneously, reducing the risk of complications. And, once you start therapy, you’ll be able to explore your feelings, emotions and behaviors in a safe and supportive environment and heal from both your mental health and substance use disorder.
Medication-Assisted Treatment is Limited
Medication-assisted treatment (MAT) is an evidence-based approach that utilizes medications to alleviate withdrawal symptoms and cravings during detox. These medications can help you manage the challenges of withdrawal more effectively, especially if you are suffering from an alcohol use disorder or opioid use disorder.
In an at-home detox scenario, access to these medications is limited, making it difficult to ensure safety and comfort. However, in a medical setting, there are doctors and nurses on staff to prescribe, administer and monitor medications safely.
The most common drugs used in MAT are buprenorphine, methadone and naltrexone. These medications are FDA-approved and have been demonstrated to be safe and effective in combination with counseling and support.
No Psychological Support or Monitoring
Detoxification is not only a physical process but also a psychological one. During withdrawal, it’s normal to experience intense mood swings, anxiety, depression and thoughts of relapse.
Having access to trained professionals allows you to access psychological support, therapy and monitoring. This will help you manage the emotional side effects of withdrawal, protecting your mental well-being and reducing the risk for self-harm.
Lack of Relapse Prevention Strategies
Detoxification alone does not guarantee long-term recovery. It’s just the first step in a comprehensive treatment plan. Without ongoing support and aftercare, you will be more vulnerable to relapse.
Professional detox programs often provide connections to support groups, counseling services and resources for continuing care, which significantly improve the chances of maintaining sobriety in the long run.
For example, Pura Vida Recovery offers detox and treatment under one roof. We have many different levels of care, allowing clients to access the level of support they need. Many of our clients start with detoxification and then move through our day program, outpatient program and aftercare.
Seek Safe, Effective Medical Detox in Santa Rosa CA
While the idea of detoxing at home may seem appealing to some, it’s essential to recognize the potential dangers and risks involved. The severity of withdrawal symptoms, co-occurring medical conditions and the need for medication-assisted treatment all highlight the necessity of seeking professional support during the detoxification process.
Pura Vida Recovery knows firsthand how difficult the detox process can be, but we are here to make this experience as tolerable as possible. Our detox facility is comfortable and home-like, with six beds, nutritious meals and opportunities for outdoor recreation. We also give clients the luxuries of everyday life by having TVs in the bedrooms and high speed WiFi.
When you complete our detox program, you can move onto the next level of care, which your treatment team will help determine. This allows you to work with one team and one facility, easing some of the stress that comes with starting the recovery process. Contact our admissions department to learn more about our detoxification program.
