Our Costa Mesa Detox Center

The first signs of withdrawal can vary depending on the substance from which an individual is detoxing, but generally include a combination of physical and psychological symptoms. Common early signs of withdrawal may include:

• Anxiety or nervousness
• Insomnia or disturbed sleep patterns
• Nausea or vomiting
• Sweating
• Increased heart rate
• Muscle aches or discomfort
• Irritability or mood swings
• Fatigue

The duration of withdrawal symptoms varies significantly depending on the type of substance used, the level of dependency, and the individual’s overall health. Generally, withdrawal symptoms can last from a few days to several weeks. For some substances, acute withdrawal symptoms may peak within the first 24 to 48 hours after cessation and gradually decrease over the course of one to two weeks. However, some individuals may experience prolonged withdrawal symptoms, known as Post-Acute Withdrawal Syndrome (PAWS), which can last for months or even years, albeit in a less intense form than the initial acute withdrawal phase.

After completing a medical drug detox program, the next step in the recovery process typically involves transitioning to a structured treatment program that addresses the psychological, social, and behavioral aspects of addiction. The type of program an individual enters depends on their specific needs, but may include:

• Residential or Inpatient Treatment: Provides intensive care and support in a live-in facility, where individuals can focus entirely on recovery without the distractions or triggers of their home environment.
• Intensive Outpatient Program (IOP): Offers a structured therapy program that allows individuals to live at home while attending treatment sessions several times a week.
• Outpatient Treatment Programs: Suitable for those with mild to moderate addiction issues, allowing individuals to attend therapy sessions while maintaining their daily responsibilities.

Drug detoxification at home can be highly dangerous due to several factors:

• Lack of Medical Supervision: Withdrawal symptoms can be severe and potentially life-threatening, requiring immediate medical intervention. Without professional supervision, there’s a high risk of complications.
• Risk of Relapse: The discomfort and intensity of withdrawal symptoms without professional support can lead to a high risk of relapse as a means to alleviate suffering.
• Mental Health Risks: Detox can trigger or exacerbate mental health issues such as anxiety, depression, or psychosis, which can lead to dangerous situations without proper care.
• Inadequate Medication Management: Medical detox often involves the use of medications to manage withdrawal symptoms safely. At home, individuals lack access to these medications and medical oversight, increasing the risk of complications.