Withdrawal from drugs or alcohol can be a complicated process. Detoxing in a center may raise concerns about cost and personal embarrassment. Stigma is another factor involved in deciding to detox at home. The decision to quit the addictive substance is cause for celebration, but some are unaware of the issues that can occur during the detox process. Uncertainties of how the human body and mind will react to separation from the addictive substance are the main dangers of at-home detox. And why jeopardize the chances for success?
What is At-Home Detox?
The dangers of at-home detox represent unnecessary risks to the addict’s health and well-being. At-home detox involves withdrawal from the addictive substance and eliminating the toxins present in the body without the support of professional staff. In addition to the physical withdrawal symptoms, the mind continually begs the patient to use it again. Intense cravings can overcome the addict and compromise the integrity of the detox. Therefore, attempting at-home detox is irresponsible to jeopardize the addicts’ recovery.
Support systems with detoxing are vital to the success of the goal. At-home detox may sound appealing, more comfortable, and less costly, but the dangers of at-home detox can outweigh the appeal. Some centers advertise a slow detox, decreasing usage over a long period, but this method opens the door to relapse. Sobriety is too important to jeopardize.
Symptoms of Withdrawal in Detox
The dangers of at-home detox point directly to the extreme physical withdrawal symptoms the addict can experience. In addition, the signs and symptoms directly correlate to the individual addiction details. For example, frequency of use, length of addiction, the physical and mental condition of the addict, and the drug involved are factors. A detox is a challenging event for all involved.
Withdrawal symptoms from certain drugs mixed with alcohol can be persistent. Medical professionals can help with this problem through medically-assisted detox. However, psychological factors increase the dangers of at-home detox. Continual observation by professionals can alleviate the severity of withdrawal symptoms. Unfortunately, untrained individuals trying to support the addict cannot foresee difficulties as they present themselves.
Common withdrawal symptoms experienced during detox from drugs and alcohol can include:
- Nausea and vomiting
- Shaking and trembling
- Aches, pains, and muscle spasms
- Mood swings
- Anxiety and depression
- Insomnia
- Nightmares
- Paranoia
- Fatigue
- Psychotic events
The Dangers of At-Home Detox
The dangers of at-home detox can be the challenge in coping with the physical symptoms of withdrawal combined with the pressing and consistent urges to use again.
Medical support and treatment by professionals can produce a successful detox in a center. However, the decision to become sober is at risk with no healthy or positive coping mechanisms; the decision to become sober is at stake. Relapse could occur before sobriety ever begins.
Other dangers of at-home detox need consideration before deciding to detox at home. Stressors within the dysfunctional family unit could influence the attempt to detox at home. Memories and reminders of previous trauma around the causes of the addiction could remain, casting a shadow. Any remaining substances or alcohol could be accessible at home as well.
Benefits of Medically Supervised Detox
The benefits of medically supervised detox include the elimination of the dangers of at-home detox. Professional detox programs in treatment facilities use medical professionals to monitor physical conditions during detox. Maintaining a sober living outlook while dealing with the patient, they have the skills to begin advocating positive and healthy coping mechanisms. In addition, the use of meditation, mindfulness, and deep breathing techniques can ease anxiety during the process.
Professional detox programs start the educational process during detox. First, the addict needs to understand the science behind addiction. Next, learning about the effects of drugs or alcohol on the mind and body can help prevent relapse. Finally, an experienced medical staff understands how a detox is a beneficial tool for recovery while staying safe from the dangers of at-home detox.
Addiction studies have proven that professional detox has led to a more significant percentage of successful recoveries. The following statistics prove the effectiveness of professional detox over at-home detox. Professional guidance is vital when choosing a detox program. Stay safe from the dangers of at-home detox by consulting an experienced detox center.
After three years:
- 62% of those who received professional detox help were still sober
- 43% of those who did not receive professional detox support were still sober
After 16 years:
- 61% of no professional detox support who were sober at the three-year mark had relapsed
- 43% of professionally supported individuals at the three-year mark had relapsed.
Detox in a Safe and Professional Setting in Los Angeles, CA
Launch Centers in Los Angeles, CA, provides medically monitored detox services to avoid the dangers of at-home detox. We are reaching out to you in hopes you will contact us and allow us to help you begin a sober living lifestyle. If you are considering the possibility of detox at home, let us address your concerns. Professional detox services are the best beginning for successful recovery. Contact us today.
