Addictive substances change the body’s physical and psychological functioning. Your body becomes so chemically dependent on the substance that it can have negative effects on your body and brain. The first step in ridding your body of the dependence is to go through a detoxification process. This blog will discuss the detox process that occurs in addiction treatment facilities.
What is Detox?
As we touched on above, after a prolonged use of an addictive substance your body becomes chemically dependent on the substance. This results in the feeling of withdrawal every time you aren’t using. In order to get rid of the chemical dependence, the body has to go through detoxification. While it can happen naturally over time, doctors do not recommend trying to go through detox on your own. Medical professionals can use certain substances to counteract withdrawal symptoms and hasten the detox process.
How Long Does Detox Take?
The length of detox depends on the type of substance and the level of dependency. With drugs such as Xanax, Klonopin, and Valium, withdrawal symptoms can start to occur as soon as one day or within a week of abstinence. The initial detox period can take up to three weeks. The first two weeks of the detox process are when the most serious withdrawal symptoms occur.
The symptoms of alcohol withdrawal can last anywhere from a few days to several weeks or months at a time, depending on the individual.
Opioid withdrawal from substances such as heroin, oxycodone, Percocet, and methadone may last anywhere from a few hours to several days or weeks. The worst symptoms typically arise within two days of abstinence.
Are You in Need of Addiction Treatment Facilities?
If you or someone you know needs help, we are here. Contact us today to learn more about the treatment that we offer.
