You might be wondering if you can detox at home safely. Maybe you’ve been consuming alcohol more than usual. Or maybe prescription drugs have become part of your daily routine. You’re thinking it’s time to stop drinking or cut out other drugs. You might feel unsure about what to expect, especially if you’re planning to do it without help. You want to feel better, not worse. And doing your recovery journey in your own home sounds simple and private.
This blog will walk you through the big question of whether home detox really is safe. We’ll talk about the risks, what the detox process involves, and why it might be better to not go at it alone. If you’ve ever thought about quitting cold turkey, or wondered about the withdrawal process, this will help.
Can I Detox at Home for Drugs and Alcohol by Quitting Cold Turkey?
It may seem like a good idea to just quit cold turkey. You might have heard that some people were able to quit drugs and alcohol on their own. However, this will not work for everybody.
For people who only drink occasionally or use very lightly, just deciding to stop might work. But if you have been using regularly or are dealing with alcohol dependence or drug abuse, it’s a whole different story.
Your body can become used to these substances. When you stop suddenly, it reacts. This can lead to severe withdrawal symptoms. These can be scary, even life-threatening. That’s why it’s important to think twice before doing an at home detox. If you’re already struggling with a substance use disorder or alcohol use disorder, it’s safer to talk to a professional and receive treatment in a professional setting.
Is Home Detox for Alcohol or Drugs Dangerous?
Yes, it can be. One of the biggest risks of at home detoxification is not knowing how your body will respond. Suddenly stopping the use of drugs and alcohol can cause withdrawal symptoms that may not be only uncomfortable but may even be dangerous.
Alcohol withdrawal can cause delirium tremens, which includes seizures, confusion, and even a medical emergency. This can happen fast. Your blood pressure can drop or spike, and you might not have the support and medical care you need.
Some drugs cause physical changes in the brain and body. Without medical assistance, withdrawal symptoms from substances like opioids or benzodiazepines can include tremors, panic attacks, or heart problems.
And no, just drinking water and taking vitamins won’t fix this. People often think they’re strong enough, but physical dependence is real. Your best option is to get professional medical advice and avoid putting yourself at higher risk.
Best Way to Detox from Drugs and Alcohol
There’s a safer way to detox from drugs and alcohol. A medically assisted detox is often the first step in a larger treatment plan. This happens under the care of a medical team who knows what to watch for so there’s reduced risk of severe withdrawal symptoms. You might go to an inpatient detox center or choose an outpatient detox program, depending on your needs. Either way, you can get the support you need with a medically-supervised treatment plan.
The goal isn’t just to get through the withdrawal process. It’s also to prevent relapse and move toward sustainable recovery. That’s where inpatient detox programs, support groups, and individual and group therapy come in. These programs include care for your mental health as well.
What Happens in the Detox Process?
During a detox program, your body starts removing drugs or alcohol. A medical team monitors your condition including your liver function, heart rate, and blood pressure. They may do blood tests and give you prescribed medication to ease symptoms.
Having a 24/7 support person or team is one of the most crucial elements of having professional drug or alcohol detoxification. This kind of support can reduce the chance of a medical emergency.
In a comprehensive treatment program, detox is often followed by a treatment plan that goes beyond removing substances from your system. You’ll also undergo therapy and even mental health treatment to address your issues. You’ll meet others through group support, and sometimes family members are part of the plan. Whether it’s a detoxification center or outpatient programs, the goal is recovery.
Best Lake Forest Drug & Alcohol Addiction Treatment
Trying to detox at home might sound simple, but it’s not always safe. For some, especially those with alcohol addiction or substance abuse issues, it can be risky and painful. Don’t take that chance alone.
At Zoe Behavioral Health, we offer professional support for drug and alcohol addiction that fits your needs. Contact us to get the support you need to make your recovery real and lasting.