Recovery is not about avoiding setbacks, but about finding the strength to take the next step forward. For many, the hardest step is the first one—detox. Questions often arise: “Will detox be painful?” “How long does it take?” or “What if I relapse?” These are valid concerns, but a more important question should be asked: “What happens if I don’t do anything?” The truth is, without help, addiction almost always progresses. Detox is the critical first step toward lasting freedom and a healthier future.
How Long Does Detox Take?
When asking the question, “How long does detox take?” The answer is not always cut and dry. It often depends on the individual, the substance, and how much and how long the substance has been used. However, the consensus is that the detox process generally takes around a week. This is the amount of time it takes for most substances to leave the body physically.
Yet, just because the substance has dissipated physically, it does not mean that the individual will be free of “cravings.” Cravings are when an individual feels the emotional or behavioral need to drink or use. This is why it is important to utilize a professional detox, because it offers support when these cravings arise and threaten the potential for a relapse.
Many people don’t realize just how common relapses can be. According to the peer-reviewed journal, Current Psychiatry Reports, “It has long been known that addictive disorders are chronic and relapsing in nature. Recent estimates from clinical treatment studies suggest that more than two-thirds of individuals relapse within weeks to months of initiating treatment.” Also, “For 1-year outcomes across alcohol, nicotine, weight, and illicit drug abuse, studies show that more than 85% of individuals relapse and return to drug use within 1 year of treatment.” A safe and secure detox can greatly reduce these chances of a relapse.
What Is a Safe and Secure Detox?
So, what exactly is a detox? According to the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA), “Detoxification is a set of interventions aimed at managing acute intoxication and withdrawal. It denotes a clearing of toxins from the body of the patient who is acutely intoxicated and/or dependent on substances of abuse. Detoxification seeks to minimize the physical harm caused by the abuse of substances.”
It is critical to understand that detoxing on your own can be very dangerous. In fact, detoxing on your own can even be deadly. This is especially true when detoxing from alcohol, and something known as alcohol withdrawal syndrome (AWS) can take hold.
A safe and secure detox is going to ensure that you are healthy while you are detoxing from alcohol and/or substances. It will ensure that your nutrient levels are sufficient and that you stay hydrated. A safe and secure detox will also ensure that you are comfortable and can get sleep as needed. One of the best components of a safe and secure detox is that it can connect you to the next steps of your recovery.
How Long Does Detox Take? What Happens Next?
Being in a professional detox setting is important because it puts you in a position to be surrounded by people who can help you make the right decision in your recovery. For example, if you are struggling with a more severe stage of addiction, professionals may recommend staying in a residential treatment center. Here, you can focus solely on your recovery while engaging in different effective means, methods, and modalities.
However, there are also other options after detox, including an intensive outpatient program (IOP). This type of program can help you focus on your recovery while also keeping one foot in your everyday life. This can be helpful for those individuals who are unable to completely step away from their career or home life (though it is important to remember that recovery comes first).
Effective Recovery Options After Detox
Many people start engaging with treatment modalities while they are still detoxing. This is helpful because the sooner you start focusing on the underlying issues of addiction, the better.
This might include starting psychotherapy like cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) or dialectical behavior therapy (DBT). Many people also start incorporating holistic options into their recovery during detox, such as meditation and yoga. This not only helps with the detox process, but it can also help to establish some essential structure that can be relied upon later on.
A Focus on Long-Term Success at The Phoenix Recovery Center
Here at The Phoenix Recovery Center, we know that a detox is just the beginning. That is why we are here to help you follow through with recovery in the long term. All of our recovery plans include a focus on the future – your future!
If you are ready to recover, the time is now. You can do this! We can help.
It is important to understand the various substances and the factors that influence detox timelines. This can help you and your loved ones better manage recovery from the very beginning. Also, the importance of medical supervision during this process cannot be overstated. This is because detoxing on your own can be very dangerous, and even deadly in some instances. If you feel like you or a loved one is struggling with issues of addiction, mental illness, or co-occurring disorders, we can help get you on the right road to long-term recovery right away. You don’t have to go through this process alone. To begin your healing journey complete this short form or call The Phoenix Recovery Center at (801) 438-3185.
