Detox and withdrawal are probably two of the most feared words when it comes to addiction and deciding to enter treatment. This part of recovery is what nobody wants to experience because it is the hardest part. It can be so difficult and debilitating that many individuals will drop out of treatment. However, it is a necessary part of the recovery process and something everyone has to get through to develop sobriety. 
What Are Withdrawal Symptoms?
Withdrawal is a range of symptoms when a person suddenly stops using drugs or alcohol. Alcohol and drugs impair certain brain functioning and interfere with neuron connections. This causes the brain to suddenly develop a tolerance, eventually causing the person to need more and more of the drug to experience the same effect. This can then lead to dependence upon the drug or alcohol. If a person that has become dependent suddenly stops, their nervous system goes into shock, and they will experience symptoms ranging between mild and potentially life-threatening. The danger and severity of these symptoms can make withdrawal hard to overcome.
What is Drug Detoxification?
Drug detox or detoxification is when any drugs or alcohol that a person has consumed are removed from the body and mind. Detox aims to safely help the person get through and manage any withdrawal symptoms when an individual stops taking substances. Drug detox can be different for everyone. The type of drug or alcohol, how much, and how long the person has used it has a lot to do with the severity of the withdrawal symptoms. Some other factors that can affect the drug detox process can include the method of abuse, any underlying medical conditions, and family history. Because quitting substances can have many adverse side effects, medical supervision is always recommended during this process. In addition, it can be very dangerous to attempt this on your own, as some drugs can cause fatal seizures when they are stopped.
What is the Difference Between Withdrawal and Drug Detox?
Drug detox and withdrawal are two of the most common terms when referring to an addiction or substance use disorder and quitting. These terms are related but cannot be used interchangeably. The difference between drug detox and withdrawal is having involvement in a treatment program. Drug detox does involve going through withdrawal, but detox involves going through this withdrawal under medical supervision and with assistance and support. A detox program can provide medications to help a person experience fewer withdrawal symptoms with the least amount of discomfort possible. Detox and withdrawal for some substances can be dangerous, so neither should be done on your own or at home, especially if the person is coming off of high doses of opioids, alcohol, or benzodiazepines. Life-threatening seizure activity called grand mal seizures can occur when attempting to rid the body of these substances. It is best if a person seeks help from a treatment program where they can be in a safe, medically supervised environment with professionals available that can monitor them around the clock and provide the necessary care.
Recovery From Addiction Begins With DETOX
Evoke Wellness has a network of drug and alcohol treatment centers that are carefully designed to offer a lasting solution for healing those suffering from substance use disorders. We offer a safe and comfortable environment for medical detoxification. Our patients are treated extensively so that minimal discomfort is experienced during the detox process. Evoke Wellness provides residential treatment in a structured environment and then provides you with after-care support, which is very important when being treated for addiction. Evoke Wellness is here to help you get on the road to long-term recovery. A sober life begins now!
