Recognizing the need to get sober is a significant milestone, but taking action is an entirely different challenge. Being sober means much more than giving up drugs and alcohol. It is an ongoing process that requires you to commit to a drug-free life, which can be difficult.
The most difficult step in breaking free from substance abuse is often the first. It may seem intimidating, but unfortunately, there is no quick fix for getting sober. Sobriety is a lifelong journey filled with challenges and great rewards.
Understanding the First Step to Sobriety
The first step of recovery is admitting that you have a problem with drug and alcohol misuse. Most people are usually in denial, which is the most challenging part. It is difficult for people to admit that they have lost control over their lives because of a substance use disorder.
Signs that indicate you are struggling with drug addiction include:
- Using substances more frequently or in larger amounts than intended
- Making unsuccessful attempts to quit
- Failing to fulfill your responsibilities at home or work due to substance use
- Continuing to use a substance even though it has worsened your physical and mental health
- Experiencing intense cravings for drugs or alcohol
Once you realize you need assistance, seeking professional help is the first step. It is the best way to start your sobriety journey. You can explore options like drug rehab in Los Angeles, where you can access comprehensive services tailored to your needs.
Medical Detox and Why It Is Important
Medical detox is an essential first step in both drug and alcohol addiction recovery. The drug detox process involves safe removal of toxic and addictive substances from the body under the supervision of a licensed medical professional.
Drug detox programs address withdrawal symptoms and provide a stable foundation for the recovery process. For those dealing with drug and alcohol abuse, medical detox offers a safe and supportive environment to begin healing. Drug and alcohol detox programs are designed to make this phase as manageable as possible, ensuring a smoother transition into the next stages of recovery.
Medication-Assisted Treatment (MAT)
Medication-assisted treatment is a method used for managing withdrawal symptoms and reducing drug cravings after the medically-assisted detox program is complete. Combining medications and medical intervention with counseling and behavioral therapy can help individuals transition smoothly from detox to ongoing recovery.
What Is Alcohol Withdrawal Syndrome?
When you engage in alcohol use for a long time, your body gets used to its presence. The brain adapts to the depressant effects of alcohol, and it becomes your new normal.
When alcohol is removed during detox, your body is forced to readjust, it can be extremely uncomfortable, or even life-threatening) and often results in alcohol withdrawal syndrome. Symptoms of alcohol withdrawal syndrome can either be mild, moderate, or severe making alcohol detox a complex and unpredictable process, as everyone’s experience is different.
The most common alcohol withdrawal symptoms include:
- Anxiety
- Insomnia
- Nausea
- Headache
- Vomiting
- Tremors
- Delirium Tremens (DTs)
In some cases, individuals may mistake withdrawal symptoms for a hangover. However, severe cases, especially those involving DTs, can be fatal.
What Is Delirium Tremens (DTs)?
Delirium tremens (DTs) is a life-threatening symptom of alcohol withdrawal and alcohol detox. People who have experienced seizures in the past are at a higher risk of developing DTs. Its symptoms include:
- Confusion
- Agitation
- Vomiting
- High blood pressure
- A rapid heartbeat
- Seizures
Anyone who suspects the onset of DTs should seek immediate medical care.
Symptoms of Substance Abuse Withdrawal
Drug withdrawal symptoms depend on the type of drug used. Not all drugs have life-threatening withdrawal periods, but eliminating substances like benzos and opiates can be fatal. Withdrawal symptoms can include:
- Body aches
- Fever
- Fatigue
- Runny nose
- Anxiety and depression
- Restlessness
- Dilated pupils
How to Safely Detox and Manage Withdrawal Symptoms
Medically supervised detox programs and addiction treatment centers provide a safe and controlled environment for detox and withdrawal. During medical detox, mental health professionals evaluate risk factors, such as pre-existing conditions (e.g., diabetes or heart disease), which may increase complications during withdrawal.
Inpatient programs offer 24/7 monitoring, ensuring the safe management of withdrawal symptoms and any co-existing medical issues. On the other hand, outpatient programs allow patients to detox at home while under a doctor’s supervision. Physicians can prescribe medications to relieve withdrawal symptoms and cravings, promoting a healthier addiction recovery process.
Why Should You Use a Detox Center or Treatment Facility?
The choice of whether to go to a detox center or a substance abuse treatment facility depends on your goals, as well as your personal struggle with alcohol or drug abuse and other mental health disorders.
Detox centers offer short-term management of symptoms. Detox alone cannot be considered treatment for substance use disorder, and patients have a high rate of relapse because it lacks long-term treatment planning as well as a treatment improvement protocol. Hence, a detox center is good for short-term management of alcohol or drug withdrawal under medical supervision.
According to the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration, treatment programs that provide a more comprehensive approach, including physical and mental health evaluations, supervised withdrawal, and ongoing treatment to address underlying issues. Once the detox process is complete, you can continue with long-term treatment at the same facility.
Regardless of your choice of where to detox, a plan for continued care and support is essential for long-term success in achieving sobriety.
How to Maintain Sobriety After Detox
Detox is an essential first step, but it is just the beginning. If you aim for long-term recovery, you will require ongoing effort and support. Some strategies for maintaining sobriety include:
- Participating in outpatient rehab or therapy
- Practicing mindfulness techniques, such as meditation or yoga
- Engaging in support groups
- Living a healthy lifestyle
- Setting achievable goals for personal growth
Mindfulness practices like meditation and yoga can improve your well-being and reduce your risk of relapse.
An Effective Treatment Process for Recovery Support Involves Mental Health Care
The first step to sobriety is often the hardest but also the most important. Seeking professional help, engaging in medical detox, and utilizing evidence-based treatments like MAT can lay the foundation for a healthier, sober future.
With support from loved ones and a commitment to personal growth, long-lasting recovery is possible.
Always remember, sobriety is a process, not a destination. Embrace each day as an opportunity to grow and thrive, and don’t hesitate to reach out for help when needed.