When Can Alcohol Withdrawal Effects Be Fatal?

Alcohol addiction is a significant problem in the United States. Statistics recently complied by the National Survey on Drug Use and Health, sometimes abbreviated as NSDUH, found that more than 15 million American age 12 and older were addicted to this substance. Many have tried to beat this dependency. However, alcohol is one of the hardest addictions to conquer.

 The Reasons Alcohol Is So Addictive

Arguably, what makes alcohol so easy to become dependent on is the impact said substance has on the nervous system. When people consume alcoholic beverages, their brains release mood-elevating hormones, such as endorphins and dopamine. That said, in some people, alcohol consumption precipitates the release of even more mood-enhancing chemicals, further stimulating their dependence.

As the habit progresses, the brain releases an increasingly greater concentration of mood chemicals. Eventually, the brain and body develop a greater dependency on the release of these chemicals to function. Ergo, a significantly greater quantity of alcohol are needed to complete that process. In fact, alcohol can alter brain chemistry to the point that pertinent actions like decision making and impulse control can be compromised.

Additionally, the availability of alcohol makes it easier to obtain. To those over 21 years of age, the substance can be purchased legally. Moreover, said the chemical is far less expensive than most other drugs and does not have to purchase in the corner of a dark alley.

 The Alcohol Withdrawal Process

Addiction experts opine that alcohol withdrawal is amongst the most difficult and serious. Withdrawal occurs in stages. The first stage typically begins within eight hours of the dependent’s last drink and might precipitate manifestations like nausea, vomiting, stomach discomfort and shakiness. During the second stage, which sets in roughly one to three days after the subject last consumed alcohol, might consist of cardiovascular symptoms like an increased pulse rate and elevated blood pressure and general manifestations like a decreased body temperature and mental problems like confusion. The last and final stage, commencing anywhere from two to four days after the consumer’s last drink, might comprise symptoms like uncontrollable tremors, hallucinations, raised body temperature and convulsions.

 Alcohol Withdrawal Can Be Fatal

Moderate to severe alcohol withdrawal processes almost always present discernible dangers and, if not properly managed, could prove fatal. There are several circumstances in which alcohol withdrawal could cost the dependent subject their life including:

When The Person Is Severely Dependent

Individuals who have consumed significant quantities of alcohol for prolonged periods stand at an increased risk of experiencing more trying withdrawal processes and potentially fatal complications.

If The Addict Possesses Any Mental Illnesses

Individuals with mental illness might not be able to bear the psychological strain associated with alcohol withdrawal.

When Co-Morbidities Exist

Chronic alcohol usage can precipitate a host of serious physical illnesses. Any of these maladies can weaken a dependent’s body to such a marked extent that they might not be able to tolerate the physical demands of withdrawal.

When The Most Serious Symptoms Manifest

End stage alcohol withdrawal symptoms can result in occurrences like uncontrollable convulsions and delirium tremens, which sends the addict into an ultra hyperactive state where they experience intense confusion and uncontrollable shaking that could quickly proceed to cardiovascular and respiratory collapse if immediate medical attention is not employed. Few people, regardless of how mentally or physically strong they are, can survive this without help.

<strong>Managing Alcohol Withdrawal</strong>

Most cases of alcohol withdrawal should be supervised through a process known as medical detoxification. During said procedure, which can take place inside a healthcare facility like a hospital or inside the confines of an in-patient rehabilitation facility, the addict is gradually weaned off alcohol in a controlled, medically monitored setting. If need be, the patient is administered medications to control burgeoning withdrawal manifestations.

Though both hospital and in-patient detoxification programs often prove effective in eliminating the alcohol from the dependent’s body, in-patient detoxification might yield better results over the long haul. This is because in-patient detox is typically followed by an extended stay inside a treatment facility in which recovering addicts are provided instruction on how to overcome the psychological factors that led to their addiction.

Contacting Us

Individuals who are tired of living an alcohol-dependent life are encouraged to contact us. Though we are located in Palm Beach County, Florida, our team of experienced staff members have helped people from across the United States conquer their alcohol addictions in a safe, comfortable atmosphere. Call us at 800-737-0933.

Can I Still Get Necessary Medication if I Do a Prescription Pill Detox?

The decision to go through detox and rehab isn’t an easy one to make. While you likely know that you need professional help, there are often certain factors that stand in your way. You may be wondering if you have to quit your job to go through rehab or if you’ll have to give up all of your activities. You may be wondering how long you will have to stay or if you can leave the facility and still receive help. Going into detox is a huge step, and you should always look for answers before you commit.

One popular question many users ask is what happens if they go into detox because of prescription medication abuse. Let’s read on to learn more about detox and to answer that question.

What can I expect during the intake process?

If you are considering detox and rehab for your prescription medication abuse, you’ll want to know what the steps are before you sign yourself in. Before your detox starts, you’ll first go through the intake process in the facility you have chosen. You’ll talk to a counselor who will ask you many questions about your prescription pill problem. He or she, along with the rehab’s doctors and nurses, will use these answers to develop your treatment plan. They will want to know how long you have been using prescription drugs, your normal dose, if you have tried to detox before, and if you are taking any pills now.

It is important to be 100% honest with the staff right from the start. This allows them to create the best treatment plan geared towards your individual needs.

What if I need medication to ween myself off of prescription drugs?

Many men and women end up relapsing when they don’t have the necessary medication to cope with withdrawal symptoms. This is a concern for many users, so don’t be afraid to talk to your therapist or doctor about it in the beginning. If you are going through the withdrawal process and are experiencing mild to severe symptoms, the rehab may provide medication that can help. The staff will make sure you are medically supervised during your withdrawals. If you choose to stay in a rehab day and night, you will have round-the-clock care. Medication for your withdrawals may also be provided if you are in an outpatient rehab program.

Certain medications are able to mimic the effects of prescription pills, quickly relieving the withdrawal symptoms and cravings you may experience. Your doctor will give you enough of the medication while you are in detox to keep your withdrawal symptoms at bay and to cut back on the physical cravings you may have for the pills. During the course of your treatment, your doctors may adjust the dosage to fit your needs.

What medications will I be given?

The type of medication you will receive will depend on the doctor, the facility, and your individual needs. You may be given the following:

Antidepressants- Your brain may not produce enough “happy” chemicals on its own. That is one reason you may have turned to prescription pills in the first place. Doctors may prescribe antidepressants to help combat the feelings of depression and anxiety you may feel once you stop taking prescription pills. Two common antidepressants are Prozac and Zoloft.

Benzodiazepines- Often called benzos, these drugs have the ability to reduce irritability and anxiety, two common side effects that happen during withdrawal. Benzos provide a calm, sedating effect that is helpful for addicts dealing with alcohol withdrawal. Your doctor will carefully monitor your use of benzos during detox because they are very addictive.

Clonidine- Clonidine is usually prescribed for alcohol and opiate withdrawals. This medication will help ease certain withdrawal symptoms, such as tremors, sweating, anxiety, cramps, and muscle aches.

Your doctor will carefully monitor you to make sure you do not simply replace one pill with another during detox. They will give you just enough medication to relieve the worst of your withdrawal symptoms during detox. From then on, you’ll learn how to deal with a life without prescription pills through therapy and counseling.

Call to learn more about our services today

Don’t let prescription medication keep a tight hold on you. We can help you get through the worst of the withdrawal symptoms with medically supervised detox services at our clinic. Our caring staff will help you every step of the way! Call us today at 800-737-0933 to hear more about our programs and to decide if we are the right fit for you.

What’s the Longest Possible Alcohol Detox Time Duration?

Long-term addiction sufferers live with special circumstances due in large part to the extent of their addiction. That’s especially true of people who have been abusing alcohol for years. The fact is there’s almost always a direct correlation between the extent of someone’s alcoholism and the way it negatively impacts their lives.

The impact of long-term alcoholism goes well beyond the way it impacts the alcohol abuser’s every day life. The impact is also felt when said individual makes the decision to stop drinking and seek help for their drinking problem. When they finally take that step, they immediately face the prospect of going through some rather disturbing withdrawal symptoms.

As a point of reference, we thought it would be proper to list out some of the more troubling withdrawal symptoms an alcohol abuser might face after months or years of excessive drinking. The list includes

  • Confusion and inability to handle simple tasks
  • Onset of severe anxiety or depression
  • Profuse sweating
  • Rise in heart rate and blood pressure
  • Delirium Tremens also known as the DTs
  • Hallucinations and difficulty sleeping
  • Nausea and vomiting

Based on this troubling list, both the medical and addiction treatment professions recommend people don’t try to detox off of alcohol without help. The best places to get that help are from a professional dedicated detox facility or a reputable alcohol rehab that provides detox services. In the sections below, the conversation is going to focus on detox treatment and the timing related to the detox process.

The Medically Monitored Detox Program

Upon entering rehab, each client is put through an interview process. The purpose of the interview is to help administrators gather information about each client’s addiction and the circumstances surrounding said addiction. If a client indicates they have been going through a long period of significant alcohol abuse, it’s a good bet they will get placement in a medically monitored detox program.

The primary goal of a medically monitored detox program is to ensure clients are kept safe and comfortable while they detox off alcohol. Should any client start to show signs of pain or discomfort, there will be a physician standing by to prescribe the appropriate relief medications.

This process will continue until the client has cleared their withdrawal symptoms and any residual cravings they have for a drink. For the individuals with moderate drinking problems, the entire detox process will usually take five to seven days. It’s an entirely different story for someone who has being drinking large amounts of alcohol over many months or years.

To better understand what those folks face, the following describes the three stages of detox for someone with a significant alcohol addiction.

Stage 1

The first stage of alcohol withdrawal will start approximately 6 to 8 hours after the alcoholic’s last drink. In the earliest stage, the individual with start to experience a little anxiety, plus some nervousness and sweating. They might also struggle with headaches. These symptoms will be prevalent for the first 24 to 48 hours.

Stage 2

Heading into the second stage (1 to 3 days)of withdrawal, the individual will start to experience issues with blood pressure and their heart rate. Nausea and vomiting will typically occur as the individual struggles with their coordination and ability to handle simple tasks.

It’s at this point that the rehab facility’s treatment staff will start to realize that an individual is going to have a rough go through the entire detox process. This is also the point where a doctor might decide that a client is going to need medication in order to survive the last stage of detox.

Stage 3

If trouble is brewing, this is the stage where the big issues will become apparent. It’s during this stage that the client faces trouble with the DTs and hallucinations that interrupt their ability to get rest. Profuse sweating and high anxiety could also appear at this time. In the worst cases, this final stage of detox could last several weeks up to a full month.

If you are contemplating putting the bottle down and reaching out for help, we ask that you proceed with caution. We would like you to call us at 800-737-0933 and lets us help you with the detox process. During that initial call, we will also take the opportunity to tell you about our facility and addiction treatment services.

Who Will Be Told About My Medical Detox from Prescription Drugs?

America is currently mired in an epidemic of prescription drug abuse. The abusers are medical patients with a legitimate prescription from a physical condition, as well as individuals who are buying prescription drugs right off the streets from illicit drug dealers. The drugs don’t care who is using them. Drugs like amphetamines and prescription painkillers are dominating the headlines because of how easy it is for people to get access to these types of prescription drugs.

Because of the illicit nature of prescription drug abuse, there’s a lot of addiction sufferers who are hesitant to seek help. Their reluctance comes from two sources. First, they have legitimate concerns about the detox process that could expose them to some significant withdrawal symptoms. Second, they have concerns about getting involved with law enforcement over their illegal actiona.

The concern over withdrawal symptoms is legitimate. Depending on the substance of choice and the extent of someone’s addiction, there’s a real possibility the addiction sufferer would face the possibility of some very troubling withdrawal symptoms. Using prescription opiate painkillers as an example, here’s some of the more significant withdrawal symptoms an addiction sufferer might encounter if they suddenly decide to stop using:

  • Problems with nausea and vomiting
  • A sudden escalation in both heart rate and blood pressure
  • Severe muscle cramping throughout the body
  • Loss of motor control and the ability to concentrate on normal tasks
  • Hallucinations and nightmares that interrupt sleep
  • Tremors throughout the extremities
  • Body convulsions
  • Psychological difficulties with depression, anxiety and possible suicide

With these kinds of potential symptoms, it’s best that addiction sufferers get help with the detox process. Unfortunately, the fear of legal ramifications stops some people from doing just that. In the following sections, the discussion will focus on how a client’s privacy is protected during treatment.

Who Will Be Told About My Medical Detox from Prescription Drugs?

When someone enters rehab, it’s important that they have confidence in the staff members with which they will be dealing. It wouldn’t likely sit well with a potential client if they felt their privacy was not going to be protected. That’s why most rehab facilities maintain a strict adherence to a policy of protecting their client’s anonymity and right to total privacy.

When it comes to someone becoming addicted to prescription medication, there will be staff concerns about what has been transpiring. Staff members will be fully aware that the clients are doing things they are not supposed to be doing. Of course, it’s really not their job to be judgmental. A rehab facility’s job it to treat clients and give them a realistic opportunity to fully recover from their addiction illnesses.

With all of that said, there are circumstances under which a rehab facility may want to broach the subject of reporting prescription medication abuse. Three main reasons why this might happen include:

  • With the client’s written permission
  • If the client is still involved with an illegal enterprise involving prescription drugs
  • If the rehab facility’s staff believe the client’s welfare it at risk with further prescription drug abuse

Client’s Written Permission

There are circumstances under which a rehab therapist might request access to a client’s physician if the client is abusing prescription drugs for which they have a legitimate prescription. In such cases, the client could be asked to give written permission for the contact. The client might want to consider allowing such contact if they believe it would enhance their chances of a full recovery from their addiction.

Illegal Activities

When a client enters rehab, there’s a presumption they are ready to remove their involvement from any illicit drug activities. If a client were to attempt to secure or sell prescription drugs while in rehab, the rehab’s staff would have a responsibility to contact law enforcement.

Client’s Welfare is at Risk

Once a client enters rehab for the second or third time due to abusing their prescription drugs, there’s a possibility the rehab facility’s staff will reach out to the attending physician to report the problem. They would only take this unusual step if they thought the client’s welfare was at risk.

If you have any concerns about your privacy when getting treatment in our rehab facility, you should call us and discuss your concerns. You can speak with one of our staff members by calling us at 800-737-0933.

What Does A Typical Cocaine Detox Look Like?

Cocaine use and dependency in the United States is a significant concern. Some officials opine the problem is reaching epidemic status. Statistics compiled by the United States government concluded that, in 2016, more than 10,000 lives were claimed as the result of overdoses. Moreover, during that same year, more than one million Americans tried the drug for the first time.

The Reason Users Grow Dependent On Cocaine

Cocaine is extracted from substances contained in the South American jungle-based coco plant and typically synthesized into a white powder users ingest into their bodies through their nose. However, the substance can also be injected into veins in their arms or smoked.

Substance abuse experts caution that cocaine is amongst the most addictive substances in the world because the chemical possesses the capacity to alter brain chemistry. After ingestion, many users report an almost immediate feeling of happiness, calm, alertness and energy-boost. Unfortunately, however, the brain and body quickly grow dependent upon cocaine and persons must ingest greater and greater quantities to produce the pleasant, if not euphoric effects. Several scientific studies conducted examining the addictive quality of various substances found that cocaine was the second most dependency-inducing drug after heroin.

Cocaine’s Impact Upon The Body

Cocaine can exercise a significantly adverse impact upon the body over both the short and long-term. The immediate potentially harmful impacts of cocaine usage include an elevated heartrate, increased blood pressure, restlessness, anger, agitation and insomnia.

However, over the long haul, addicts can experience a plethora of serious health problems, such as cardiovascular problems like heart attacks, strokes, blood vessel damage, headaches, convulsions, severe damage to the respiratory and digestive systems, liver scarring, declining cognitive functions like memory and concentration, frequent nose bleeds and the diminished or complete loss of smell.

Conquering A Cocaine Addiction

The specific therapy a team of healthcare professionals or in-patient treatment center counselors employ to help an addict overcome their addiction will depend upon several factors, including the length and severity of their dependency, personal health measures like their age, weight and general physical condition and the current state of their mental health.

The Detoxification Process

Typically, the first step in any addict’s treatment and ultimate recovery is the detoxification process, which is often abbreviated simply as detox. Most individuals with any moderate to severe addiction to cocaine or any drug cannot simply quit without experiencing significant consequences.

Because the mind and body become addicted to a substance, abrupt cessation of ingestion will invariably precipitate physical and mental manifestations known medically as withdrawals. Usually, these symptoms begin as quickly as a few hours after the last ingestion and might include occurrences like extreme agitation, restlessness, tiredness, sweating, depression and anger. These events intensify as more time passes since the last ingestion.

In many instances, the worst of cocaine withdrawal symptoms last for only a few days. However, the cravings are extremely difficult and, in some cases, impossible for addicts to conquer and frequently precipitate relapse. Intense psychological yearnings for the drug can last for several months after the drug exists the addict’s system.

The Need For Supervised Detox

For this reason, the detox process is typically best handled inside an in-patient drug rehabilitation facility in which the dependent’s withdrawal can be monitored under strict medical supervision. Effective detox performed in a reputable in-patient facility is typically broken down into three separate phases, the medical detoxification, treatment and aftercare.

Medical Detox

In an experienced recovery establishment, the addict is carefully observed during the withdrawal process and given medications to control any untoward manifestations until the drug has departed their body. Cocaine detox is usually not a long process. However, for dependents with discernible physical or mental health issues, the process could prove more challenging and be of longer duration.

Treatment

Once medical detox is completed, the in-patient facility said individual commits themselves to entering often tailors a program geared towards helping the former dependent adapt to sobriety, identify the reasons they became addicts and learn to lead a happy and productive life free of drugs.

Aftercare

Once the treatment program ends, the recovering addict begins their new life. However, many individuals partake in aftercare programs that involve activities like counseling or recovery programs designed towards helping said persons stay on the straight and narrow path.

Contacting Us

Our in-patient facility is located in Southern Florida. That said, our team of experienced medical and drug counseling professionals have helped numerous addicts from throughout the United States overcome cocaine and other substance addictions. Those yearning to end a cycle of dependency are encouraged to contact us 800-737-0933.

Are All Detoxes in Florida Attached to Rehab Centers?

If you have a problem with drugs or alcohol and call Florida home, you are not alone. According to drug-rehab.org, an online resource for drug education and addiction awareness, more than 410,000 Floridians admitted to having a substance use disorder in 2014. It is also worth noting that the number of overdose cases in the state increased by over 5,000 between 2014 and 2016. That said, the substances that are being abused the most in Florida, also known as the sunshine state, include alcohol, cocaine, heroin, and marijuana.

And while prescribed for legitimate reasons, many Floridians are also abusing prescription pain relievers, namely Oxycontin and Hydrocodone. So while the state is best known for its theme parks and exciting nightlife, most will agree that Florida has a serious problem on its hands when it comes to substance abuse. It should be noted, however, that many people have begun to recognize the devastating toll that abusing drugs and alcohol can have on their lives and have sought addiction recovery services from the nearly 14,000 rehab facilities interspersed in and around Florida.

ARE ALL DETOX PROGRAMS IN FLORIDA ATTACHED TO REHAB CENTERS?

Most physicians and addiction experts will agree that overcoming an addiction to certain substances is easier than others. For example, individuals who choose to end their relationship with marijuana are seldom confronted by severe withdrawal symptoms as they go through detox. Sadly, this is not the case for those who are seeking to end their relationship with prescription-based or street-level opioids, such as heroin. The same can also be said for those trying to overcome an addiction to alcohol. In most cases, when an individual stops consuming these particular substances, they will usually find themselves having to deal with an onslaught of severe withdrawal symptoms. And sometimes, these withdrawal symptoms are so severe that many will choose to forgo their pursuit of sobriety and start using again.

Fortunately, many rehab facilities in Florida are aware of the challenges that come with ending one’s relationship with opioids, alcohol, and other hardcore substances. As such, many will offer detox assistance in both their inpatient and outpatient programs. Detox assistance in nearly all Florida rehab facilities includes prescription-based medication to help individuals cope with challenging withdrawal symptoms as well as round-the-clock monitoring by a licensed doctor or nurse. This aspect of addiction recovery will usually take place onsite; however, some facilities may choose to offer them in a separate location. This approach ensures that individuals can get focused treatments that can significantly increase their chances of completing detox successfully. That said, detox assistance can help ease the following withdrawal symptoms associated with substance abuse cessation:

  • Insomnia
  • Anxiety
  • Memory problems
  • Headaches
  • Heart palpitations
  • Profuse sweating
  • Nausea and vomiting
  • Hypertension
  • Muscle aches
  • Tremors

 

The severity of these symptoms, not to mention the type of symptoms an individual will encounter, can vary depending on how long they have been using. It is also worth noting that the specific substance that they were abusing before seeking treatment will also play a role in this regard as well.

HOW LONG WILL THE DETOX PROCESS LAST?

While the goal of any detox program is to help individuals safely and effectively achieve sobriety, the timeframe involved can vary from one person to the next. Whether they are provided onsite or via a separate location, detox programs offered by most Florida-based rehab facilities will last anywhere from 3 to 7 days. In most cases, this is enough time for drugs or alcohol to leave an individual’s system. During this time, the doctors and nurses in these programs will provide individuals with prescription-based medications to help them cope with severe withdrawal symptoms, some of which include

  • Methadone
  • Clonidine
  • Suboxone
  • Naltrexone
  • Antabuse
  • Acamprosate
  • Benzodiazepines
  • Antidepressants

The type of medication that a physician will prescribe to patients is determined based on the symptoms they are experiencing and the substance that their body is attempting to detox. Along with these popular medications, some Florida-based rehab facilities are now offering a relatively new medication called Lofexidine to help ease certain types of withdrawal symptoms. According to a study published by the National Institutes of Health, Lofexidine has been approved by the FDA, also known as the Food and Drug Administration, to help individuals cope with the physical symptoms associated with opioid withdrawal.

BOTTOM LINE

In summary, if you’re struggling with drugs or alcohol and live in Florida, there is no shortage of rehab facilities that you can turn to for help. And most of them, if not all, offer some form of detox assistance to make your journey toward sobriety slightly easier. To learn more about any of the information detailed in this article, consider reaching out to one of our friendly associates today at 800-737-0933.

Will I Be Discharged from the Military for Going To a Substance Abuse Detox Program?

It’s a well-known fact that drug and alcohol abuse is common among veterans. However, alcohol and substance abuse is a significant problem among active-duty members who are part of the armed forces as well. Many service personnel are willing to get help but are unsure of what will happen to them when they enter a detox program. They are worried that they will be dishonorably discharged if they admit they need help. While this is a valid concern, most service personnel can receive the treatment they need while staying active duty. Read on to learn more about drug use in the military.

Drug Abuse and the Military

The abuse of illegal and prescription substances among military members can be just as problematic as it is for those in the private sector. Drug abuse affects a person’s ability to make rational decisions and can lead to poor performance on the job. For military members, drug use can easily put fellow soldiers at risk. The use of drugs can cause problems when it comes to discipline, readiness, and the physical and mental health of the service member. It may also create problems within the unit by disrupting the unity of the soldiers. An addicted member can also put a whole unit at risk when they are deployed to an active war zone.

Prescription drugs, such as opioid painkillers and sedatives, are most often abused by military members. Alcohol abuse is another widespread problem in the military. While illicit drugs are not as common an issue, they are still prevalent through the military community. Because of wartime experiences, many active-duty military members find themselves dealing with PTSD, anxiety, depression, and other mental health disorders. Many turn to drugs to combat these feelings, only to find themselves addicted. For members who had mental health concerns before being deployed to a war zone, drugs and alcohol may be the only way they know how to cope.

Help for Military Members

Too many military members do not seek the help that they need because they are afraid of the repercussions. However, many members can and do go through detox and treatment at a reputable rehab even while on active duty. Drug testing is mandatory for all military members. While they may be asked to perform a random urinalysis, commanders can and will order “probable cause testing” if they believe any service member may be using illegal drugs.

Any service member who comes up positive for illicit drugs will be offered the chance to go to treatment and detox. A trained professional will initially access the situation and may recommend treatment for the individual. A commanding officer will refer a service member to treatment if they have had an issue with the police, such as a DUI or disorderly conduct charge. The type of detox and treatment will depend on many factors, such as the availability of services, the severity of the addiction, and the cost of detox.

Confidentiality and Disciplinary Action During Treatment

Confidentiality is often an issue that keeps service members from seeking treatment. However, confidentiality is limited in different cases. For example, service members who have been arrested or have threatened to harm themselves will show up on the commander’s radar. Some programs also require that the partner of the addict become involved in treatment.

While many service members do not want others involved, the commander’s involvement should be thought of as a positive thing. They can help the service member stay sober after detox and treatment are over. They will also want to know any type of information that could affect how fit the person is for duty. It is their job to ensure the safety of their entire unit.

Overall, the military will not discharge a service member because of a drug or alcohol problem. They will offer counseling and therapy services through their own facilities, or they may recommend the individual to a civilian facility. While some service members will face disciplinary action, the military will be more concerned that they seek help for their problem. Any service member who is dealing with a drug or alcohol addiction should seek the help they need right away.

Contact Us Now

If you or someone you love in the military is abusing drugs and needs treatment, don’t hesitate. Our facility can help you or your loved one detox from drugs or alcohol and learn to live a sober life. When you are ready to take that first important step, give us a call at 800-737-0933.

What Are Some Surprising Drug Detox Effects You Might Not Expect?

Drug detox is often one of the most difficult stages in addiction recovery. The effects of drug abuse change the brain and body on a chemical level, which plays into the addiction process. Not surprisingly, you may experience a few drug detox effects that you might not expect.

Since each person’s body interacts with addictive substances in different ways, detox effects can take different forms. Knowing what to expect can go a long way towards helping you get the supports you need to make it past the detox period. Here are a few surprising drug detox effects to watch for along with a brief overview on what causes these effects.

What Causes Drug Detox Effects?

Addictive substances take an ongoing toll on the body on both a physical and psychological level. While the desired effect may be to get high or escape from the events of the day, these substances accomplish this by altering important chemical processes in the brain and body. After a certain point, the brain and body begin to rely on the drug’s effects to function normally.

Here are just a few substances that fall in this category:

  • Alcohol
  • Heroin
  • Crack, cocaine
  • Prescription painkillers
  • Benzodiazepines
  • Prescription stimulants, such as Ritalin and Adderall

Drug detox effects, also known as withdrawal effects, develop out of the chemical imbalance created when drug use stops. More often than not, the severity of withdrawal effects experienced reflects the degree of imbalance left behind by the drug’s effects. Since each person’s physical makeup interacts with addictive substances in different ways, the types of withdrawal effects experienced can vary from person to person in type and intensity.

Here are a handful of effects you might not expect to experience during drug detox:

Confused Thinking

The effects of drug addiction specifically target the brain’s cognitive processes, which include reasoning, learning and memory. As drug use continues, these systems continue to undergo chemical changes that directly impact a person’s priorities and motivations. These changes account for the incessant cravings and ongoing preoccupation with getting and using addictive substances.

Confused thinking results from the chaos that develops within the brain’s chemical system when drug use stops. In effect, the brain develops a psychological dependence on the drug’s effects in the same way the body develops a physical dependence. In the absence of the drug’s effects, it becomes difficult to carry out mental tasks that require concentration, focus and planning.

Severe Depression

Depression and substance abuse tend to go hand-in-hand. Drug abuse often becomes a form of escape from depression. On the flip-side, abusing drugs for any length of time breeds the types of brain chemical processes that cause depression. In turn, the brain’s increasing susceptibility to depression is part of the reason why a person requires increasingly larger doses of the drug over time.

For these reasons, stopping drug use typically brings on feelings of severe depression. The severity of the depression varies depending on how long a person abused drugs and the types of drugs used. In the most severe of cases, suicidal tendencies can run especially high.

Intense Anxiety

While most everyone has experienced some level of anxiety in one form or another, the experience doesn’t typically the point where it interferes with a person’s ability to function throughout the day. As a drug detox effect, anxiety levels can be overwhelming and in the most extreme cases, a person can experience full-blown panic attacks.

Signs of intense anxiety and developing panic attacks include:

  • Restlessness
  • Tremors
  • Rapid breathing
  • Increased heart rate
  • Light-headedness
  • Tightness in the chest

Extreme Moods

Extreme moods are another drug detox effect you might not expect. Changes in mood can be triggered by anything and don’t necessarily have to make sense. Addictive substances force the brain to secrete large amounts of serotonin and dopamine, which promote happiness and a sense of well-being. In effect, neurotransmitter levels are severely depleted when drug use stops.

Extreme moods to watch for include:

  • Violent outbursts
  • Aggressive behavior
  • Feelings of despair

Unfortunately, there are no shortcuts when it comes to addiction recovery. While drug detox can be a difficult experience, it’s very doable when you have the right supports in place. If you have more questions or need information on drug detox programs, call us today at 800-737-0933 to speak with one of our addiction counselors.

Can Detox Centers Help Me Get Clean if I’m Homeless?

Dealing with a drug addiction and homelessness at the same time is hard. You may worry about your safety on the streets when you are under the influence of drugs. While you may know that you need help to deal with your addiction, you might not know where to turn. There are many programs available that can offer you support, and it is reassuring to know that detox centers can help you get clean if you’re homeless. In fact, going to a detox center is the safest and most effective way to stop using drugs or alcohol when you have a serious addiction.

Your addiction might have led you to make choices that led to your homelessness, or you might have started using drugs or alcohol to cope with the pain after losing your home or job. Either way, you’ll find nonjudgemental and caring people when you go to a treatment facility. The staff at a detox center only cares about helping you get clean so that you can get your life back on track.

Go Through Detox In a Safe Environment

The detox process is often unpredictable, and you need to be prepared for having serious symptoms that could impact your safety and health. A few of the most common detox symptoms that people experience include the following:
•nausea
•seizures
•fatigue
•mood swings
•increased pain

The symptoms that you experience will depend upon the types of drugs that you use along with your body’s dependence upon the substance. You should also know that abruptly quitting certain drugs without professional assistance can lead to increased cravings. Your risk for serious withdrawal symptoms also goes up if you have ever quit and had a relapse or if you’ve had an overdose.

While it might be scary to think about having withdrawal symptoms, you can feel better knowing that they are temporary. In most cases, you will be finished with the most challenging part of the detox process within a few days to a week. After that, you will begin to work on learning how to manage your addiction so that you can stay sober once you finish the program. The benefit of going to a detox center rather than trying to get sober on the street is that you also receive personalized treatment that includes management of your withdrawal symptoms. Feeling comfortable and supported makes it easier to stay strong as your body adjusts to living without drugs or alcohol.

Get Help for Your Mental Health

The detox process is only the first step toward managing your addiction. You will also need to learn how to take care of your mental health. There are many mental health conditions that can lead to someone using drugs as a method for coping such as PTSD and depression. You may also have developed a mental health condition such as anxiety after you became homeless. Once again, this is an area where you benefit from seeking professional care.

In a drug and alcohol treatment program, you gain the ability to work with professionals who can help you figure out what causes you to drink or do drugs. You can also receive services that include intensive counseling to help you begin to feel better mentally. If you have family nearby, then your rehab program can also help you to begin healing those relationships through family counseling. Group therapy is another type of treatment that helps you to not feel so alone, and you can even participate in recreational activities that help you feel normal and healthy again.

Find Hope for the Future

Both homelessness and addiction can make the future feel bleak. Getting sober turns this completely around, and you will find that your stay at a detox center helps you to start rebuilding your belief that life is good. Your counseling team will help you to begin to put together a plan for how you can live safely and sober after treatment.

When you enter rehab as a homeless person, you are connected to resources that can help you to begin to find a job, a home and renew your family relationships. While it will not be easy, you can expect to continue to improve your life after your treatment is complete by continuing to follow the plan that your team helps you put together for getting your life back on track.

Are you ready to regain control over your life by ending your addiction? We can help you get into a detox center that changes your life. Give us a call today at 800-737-0933!

Will A Rehab In Florida Admit Me If I’ve Relapsed Before?

Reclaiming your life from drug or alcohol addiction can be a very complex and challenging process. In fact, many people try and fail in recovery multiple times before finally achieving sobriety. This is why relapse is considered a common and ultimately normal part of the recovery process. Although caving to stress, temptation, and cravings can leave you feeling like you’re incapable of getting well, it can actually mean that you’re on the path to getting better and that you just have more to learn and experience throughout treatment than you’d originally expected. Your willingness to rise above relapse and strive for sobriety again is a very positive sign. To ensure your success, you need to look for a rehab in Florida that’s capable of meeting your unique range of needs.

Each time that you try and fail in recovery, you become more knowledgeable of the different triggers and environments that have the ability to best your willpower. You also gain a better understanding of the best treatment types for your circumstances. For instance, if your first effort in recovery took place in a large outpatient program, it may be time to consider your options in long-term, inpatient treatment. With several months away from the relationships, stressors, and triggers of your current life and lifestyle, you’ll have ample time to:

  • Learn new and better coping strategies
  • Identify and address any co-occurring disorders
  • Establish long-term plans for keeping your health and sobriety on the right track

Relapse is also something that you can discuss at length with counselors, peers, and others who are present within the treatment environment. What many patients find is that each relapse is incredibly humbling. It reminds them that seeking ongoing help and support, particularly post-rehab, can be necessary for avoiding past mistakes and for maintaining the right life habits and relationships after formal treatment has ended.

You’ll Be Surrounded By Like-Minded People In Florida Rehab

One of the major benefits of enrolling in a Florida rehab post-relapse is being surrounded by people with similar goals, similar life experiences, and similar histories with relapse. Group therapy is a large part of the drug and alcohol treatment process as it teaches patients proper socialization skills, boundary setting, and strategies for safely and successfully besting cravings. You can share your relapse experiences during group therapy sessions to help others overcome the shame and self-doubt that they’re experiencing. You will also have the opportunity to glean valuable information from the experiences of those around you.

Success In Rehab After Relapse

Countless recovered drug and alcohol users have relapsed before. In fact, many of these individuals have multiple tales of relapse. It can take a while to find out which treatment style is right for you, and which treatment environments will be most conducive to your success. More importantly, for some people, it can also take several tries to fully commit to getting well. Relapsing, however, never means that you’re incapable of succeeding. It is instead an opportunity to learn, further your growth, refine your recovery plan, and build your resolve. Florida rehab centers understand that all of these things can be a normal part of the recovery process.

Inpatient treatment centers strive to provide all of their patients with safe, secure environments. With little to no cell phone use, carefully monitored facilities, and limited access to the outside world, clients have the opportunity to focus completely on getting well. These centers effectively remove drug and alcohol users from unhealthy relationships, circumstances, and other triggers that are impeding their progress. With individual and group therapy, access to treatment for co-morbidity, and many other treatments and support services, Florida rehabs are equipped to provide all that people need for successfully dealing with substance use disorder.

Identifying Needs That May Have Been Overlooked

Some people relapse simply because they aren’t ready for the rigors of recovery. Others relapse because critical needs weren’t met. For instance, if you believe that you are suffering from co-morbidity or a co-occurring disorder, dual diagnosis treatment could be an essential part of your recovery plan. This will address both substance use disorder and any chronic anxiety, chronic depression, or other mental health issues that exist. Dual diagnosis treatments eliminate the need for patients to self-medicate their pain with harmful drugs or alcohol, by treating their discomfort at its actual source.

Your Journey To Good Health Can Start Today

Relapsing shouldn’t prevent you from pursuing happiness, wholeness, and good health. All of the benefits of recovery are still await. You simply need to secure the right support services and help. From intensive, inpatient programs to flexible outpatient plans, there are many different options in Florida rehab available. If you want to find the perfect treatment center for your needs, we can help. Call us today at 800-737-0933.