If you’ve used drugs or alcohol for a long time, quitting takes more than willpower and determination. Your body gets used to having these substances in your system, and when you stop, it reacts – sometimes in dangerous ways. This process is withdrawal.
At Maryville Integrated Care, we provide medically supervised detox to help you overcome uncomfortable withdrawal symptoms safely.
What Is Detox?
Detox is short for detoxification. It’s the process of clearing harmful substances like drugs or alcohol out of your body. If you’ve developed a physical or emotional dependence, stopping can cause withdrawal symptoms – these are signs your body is reacting to the sudden change.
Everyone experiences detox differently, but trying to do it without help can be intense, painful, and even life-threatening. That’s why it’s so important to have medical professionals by your side during this time.
What Can Happen During Detox?
Withdrawal symptoms depend on the substances you’ve used, how long you’ve used them, and other factors like your age and metabolism.
- Opioids (like heroin or painkillers): Flu-like symptoms, chills, muscle pain, and strong cravings
- Benzodiazepines (like Xanax or Valium): Anxiety, panic attacks, confusion, or even hallucinations
- Alcohol: Shaking, sweating, hallucinations, and seizures – severe alcohol withdrawal is potentially fatal in rare cases
Detox can be even harder if you’ve combined more than one of these substances. That’s why it’s not safe to try this on your own.
Why You Shouldn’t Detox at Home
Some people believe they can tough it out or quit cold turkey, but detoxing without medical help is dangerous. You might feel overwhelmed by physical pain, fear, or emotional stress. In some cases, withdrawal symptoms can be so severe that they put your health at serious risk.
Maryville offers 24/7 medical care during detox. Our team will monitor your symptoms, provide medication if needed, and keep you safe, comfortable, and ready for the next phase of recovery.
What Happens After Detox?
Detox is only the beginning. Once your body is free of harmful substances, the real work of recovery begins. Many people with addiction also struggle with mental health issues like depression, anxiety, or PTSD. At Maryville, we treat co-occurring conditions together. This dual-diagnosis care gives you the best chance of long-term success.
After detox, you can move into our residential treatment program, where you’ll learn healthy coping skills, receive counseling, and begin to rebuild your life.
You Don’t Have to Do This Alone
Breaking free from addiction is hard – but with experienced help, it’s possible. At Maryville Integrated Care, we provide a safe place to begin recovering. Our experienced team is here to care for your body and your mind, helping you heal in every way. Contact us today to learn more about our detox and treatment programs.
