Written by Brandon Okey. Mina Draskovic, B.Psy., reviewed this content for accuracy.
It’s time to flip the script. You’re ready to check into rehab to quit abusing a drug or alcohol. So, how long does drug detox take? What happens behind closed doors?
Understanding the Goal of Detoxification
How long does drug detox take? In large part, the answer to this question depends on you. Because everyone’s different, there’s no general rule. Let’s look at the reasons for detoxification first.
The goal of any detox is to help your body regain equilibrium. In the case of nervous system depressants, this means helping the nerves and brain communicate again. For people using stimulants, it calls for letting the body naturally respond to stimuli. During detox, you give the body the opportunity to remove the drugs from its system.
As a result, you might experience withdrawal symptoms. They can range from unpleasant to painful and dangerous. Withdrawing safely in a facility with medical supervision protects your health and allows for a pain-free experience. Besides that, you receive help with cravings.
How Long Does Drug Detox Take in a Setting with Medical Supervision?
There are two types of detox. Acute detox begins about six to ten hours after the last time you used. Depending on the substance, you feel the first pangs of withdrawal at that time. Withdrawal symptoms intensify for a couple of days. Once again, it depends on the drug, your overall health, and your length of use that determine duration.
Typically, you’ll feel better by day four or five. By day seven to ten, you’re ready to proceed with rehab. Frequently, this is when post-acute withdrawal begins. You no longer have the pains, but you’re now struggling with cravings.
Professional Help is a Vital Aspect of Recovery
How long does drug detox take? The answer also depends on your care. Medical supervision during detox is crucial for the initial portion of your treatment. Examples of modalities include:
Pharmacological support for pain relief and craving control
Group therapy sessions that provide support allow for addiction education, and support relapse prevention training
Consider enrolling in a program that offers detox and rehab on the same campus. Doing so doesn’t box you into a predetermined time for detoxification. Moreover, it facilitates a smooth transition to rehab, which tackles the psychological part of addiction. It’s ideal for individuals who don’t want therapists to rush them through the process or hold them back unnecessarily.
How to Get Help
Reach out for help from experts in the field of medical and clinical care. They answer questions such as how long does drug detox take. They can also provide you with details about paying for rehab. Contact Ardu Recovery Center today at 801-810-1234 to begin your healing journey.
Brandon Okey is the co-founder of Ardu Recovery Center and is dedicated to empowering people on their journey to sobriety.
How long does drug detox take? In large part, the answer to this question depends on you. Because everyone’s different, there’s no general rule. Let’s look at the reasons for detoxification first.
The goal of any detox is to help your body regain equilibrium. In the case of nervous system depressants, this means helping the nerves and brain communicate again. For people using stimulants, it calls for letting the body naturally respond to stimuli. During detox, you give the body the opportunity to remove the drugs from its system.
As a result, you might experience withdrawal symptoms. They can range from unpleasant to painful and dangerous. Withdrawing safely in a facility with medical supervision protects your health and allows for a pain-free experience. Besides that, you receive help with cravings.
