Detoxification is the first step in treatment for substance abuse that removes all traces of chemicals and toxins from the body left behind during prolonged addiction, however, simply ridding the body of drugs is not a complete cure. Once successful detoxification has been achieved, the individual must undergo rehabilitation in a program designed to address the psychological factors that contributed to the addiction.
The Detoxification Process
Addiction is the result of physical changes in the brain and body created by powerful synthetic compounds designed to produce euphoric effects. These chemicals remain in the body and continue to cause cravings and withdrawal symptoms long after the drugs are discontinued. For this reason, detoxification programs are designed to provide a safe, medically supervised procedure for addressing these withdrawal episodes.
Detoxification seeks to decrease the intensity of withdrawal symptoms by focusing on the specific drug being abused, severity of the addiction and co-occurring mental or physical disorders. A variety of methods can be utilized to treat all aspects of the individual’s particular needs, but the main objective of these programs is to provide successful withdrawal with minimal discomfort and prepare the individual for the rehabilitation process.
Depending on the substance being abused and the duration of addiction, drug detox and rehabilitation can be conducted on an outpatient or inpatient basis, however, studies show that enrollment in a long-term residential program offers the most favorable results. Rehabilitation programs serve to educate the individual about the reasons behind the drug addiction and teach them coping skills and strategies to avoid relapse in the future.
If your attempts to break an addiction have failed, it is important to realize these powerful substances will continue to control your life unless you undergo detoxification followed by enrollment in a rehabilitation program. Call and speak with one our counselors today to learn how we can help you live a productive life free from the agony of addiction.