The Role of a Medical Detox Center in Getting Sober

You've finally hit a wall. You know that you have a serious problem with substance abuse. It's too big for one person to handle alone. Professional intervention is the only way to take charge of a life that is spinning out of control, but caught in a vicious cycle that has been going on for far too long.

Each day spent in addiction is a day that you lose a little bit more of yourself and forget who you used to be before the source of your addiction took over. Trying to go solo hasn't worked. There have been too many failed attempts in the past. It's time to get serious.

Think of detox as first base when it comes to overcoming substance abuse. In order to make it all the way to home plate and lasting recovery, you'll need therapy, and support groups. You can't get anywhere without going through detox first. Detox is the initial phase of treatment when there will be no access to the source of your addiction.

You can't get anywhere without going through detox first. Detox is the initial phase of treatment when there will be no access to the source of your addiction.

While you are medically supervised, all traces of the toxins that have been building up in your system will be eliminated.

The length of this process will vary depending on your drug of choice, how long you have been using, and how much you use on a regular basis. This period of treatment could last a week or more. It is based on the individual's needs. Staff will respond accordingly.

You'll be completely cut off from substance abuse. There will be no turning back or weaning yourself off. When you walk into your detox facility, you'll leave drugs or alcohol at the door. Once detox begins, withdrawal is going to hit. Withdrawal is a combination of extreme cravings for your drug of choice and physical symptoms.

Nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and uncontrollable shaking are typical. In some cases, seizures may happen. You'll deal with emotional trauma as well as you struggle with depression, anxiety, and paranoia. This is the phase of treatment when people are ready to do anything to find relief and make all of the unpleasant symptoms go away. You have to hold on.

Detox facilities exist for your safety and comfort and should always be utilized. You can make it through detox and get to the rehab phase of treatment. You just need the right support system. The best place to start your search is SAMHSA's treatment locator.

Alexander is a writer in long term recovery from drug addiction. You can find more of his work, as well as additional information on addiction treatment, at TheSummitWellnessGroup.com.