Addiction Detox

Detox is the process of removing harmful substances from your body and breaking your physical dependence on drugs or alcohol. It is a crucial aspect of addiction recovery and a vital step towards reclaiming your life.

While addiction detox can be a daunting prospect, there are many common misconceptions about the process. When you complete detox under medical guidance at a professional detox centre like Banbury Lodge, you can be assured that you will get the support you need to stay safe and comfortable.

Detox - apple

What is detox for?

Addiction has both psychological and physical elements. Physical dependence is caused by changes in the brain’s neurotransmitter systems. These changes are a result of repeated substance use which can alter the brain’s reward pathways and trigger the release of excessive amounts of neurotransmitters like dopamine. As a result, the brain becomes conditioned to the presence of drugs or alcohol, and without them, it is unable to function normally.

Detox helps to break physical dependence on addictive substances by eliminating them from the body and allowing the brain to reset its chemistry. It is a crucial aspect of effective recovery as it provides a clean slate for you to focus on the psychological side of the condition without being distracted by physical cravings or withdrawal symptoms.

At Banbury Lodge detox centre, we provide inpatient, medical detox for a number of substances including:

Drug Detox

To break physical dependence on illicit drugs including cocaine, heroin, methamphetamines, ecstasy, alcohol and cannabis.

Drug Detox →

Alcohol Detox

The withdrawal symptoms from alcohol can be among the most severe so detoxing under the supervision of our medical team is very important.

Alcohol Detox →

Prescription Drug Detox

It is important to detox from prescription medication, including benzodiazepines, Z-Drugs, and opiates, with professional medical supervision.

Prescription Drugs →

What are the benefits of detox for addiction?

Addiction detox programmes provide a number of benefits for those struggling with substance abuse and dependency, including:

Reduction of withdrawal symptoms
Improved physical and mental health
The clearing of toxins from the body
Resetting the brain’s chemistry
Strong foundations for further recovery treatment

What are common addiction detox withdrawal symptoms?

Withdrawal occurs when you stop using drugs or alcohol and there is a chemical imbalance while your body recovers and gets used to not having the substances in your system. Withdrawal symptoms vary depending on the substance used and can range both in severity and duration. Some common withdrawal symptoms include:

Anxiety
Depression
Confusion
Irritability
Fatigue
Sweating
Insomnia
Lethargy
Nausea and vomiting
Muscle aches
Seizures (in severe cases)

How to detox safely

The withdrawal symptoms of some substances can be dangerous and potentially even fatal so it is crucial that you detox under the guidance of medical professionals like the team at Banbury Lodge detox centre. Attempting to detox at home on your own means that you won’t have anyone with the skills and experience required if something goes wrong.

Here are some of the benefits of undergoing a detox programme at Banbury Lodge:

Medical assessment: Upon admission to Banbury Lodge, you will be given a full medical assessment to determine your specific needs and any underlying health conditions. This information will then be used to create a personalised detox plan and to ensure your safety and comfort during the detox process.
Medical supervision: Our medical professionals are trained to help you manage withdrawal symptoms and can provide medication as needed to make the process more comfortable.
A safe and controlled environment: Detoxing in a professional detox centre provides a safe and controlled environment, reducing the risk of adverse events and ensuring your comfort and well-being.
Nutrition and hydration: Good nutrition and hydration are crucial during the detox process so you will be provided with healthy meals and encouraged to drink plenty of water to help your body heal.
Preparation for the next steps: Addiction detox is just the first step in the recovery process so you will be given guidance and support as you prepare for the other aspects of your recovery treatment.

Detox - nutrition and hydration

Can detox cure substance addiction?

While detox is an important part of the recovery process, it does not address any underlying causes of addiction or how to manage cravings, without which, recovery is not possible. Alongside addiction detox at Banbury Lodge, you will also begin a rehab treatment programme to address the psychological, emotional and behavioural aspects of your dependency and build the skills and tools you need for a successful and lasting recovery. Our programmes involve a combination of individual and group therapies as well as holistic treatment programmes to heal your mind, body and soul.

After leaving our detox centre, you will then begin your aftercare programme. This is an important component of the recovery process and involves weekly group therapy sessions for a year which provide ongoing support and accountability as you continue on your recovery journey.

Easing common fears about addiction detox

Undergoing a detox programme can be a daunting process, and it is common for individuals to have fears and concerns about the process. However, it is important to understand that many of these fears are based on misconceptions. Here are some common fears and the truth behind them:

Withdrawal will be too painful to bear

Withdrawal can be uncomfortable but it is not usually painful. ymptoms vary depending on the substance used and can range from mild to severe. However, our medical professionals are trained to manage withdrawal symptoms and medication can be prescribed to make the process more comfortable.

I will just relapse straight after detox

Relapse is a common concern for individuals in recovery but it is far from a foregone conclusion. With the right support, addiction detox can help you to break the cycle of dependency and set the foundation for a successful and lasting recovery.

I will be judged for needing detox for addiction

Neither the staff nor other clients at Banbury Lodge will judge you for your dependency issues. Our goal is to help you overcome your dependency and go on to live a healthy, happy life and everyone at Banbury Lodge works together towards that goal.

Detox - reassurance for loved one

How to help a loved one who is going through detox

There is no more powerful force in recovery than the support of loved ones. If you have a friend or family member who is about to begin an addiction detox programme, here are some important ways you can help them:

1. Educate yourself about detox

Understanding the process of detox can help you provide the right support and care. Educating yourself about the science behind substance dependency, the addiction detox process itself and the different stages of recovery can help you better understand what your loved one is going through and how best to support them.

2. Be patient and understanding

Substance dependency is a complex and challenging condition and undergoing a detox programme can be a difficult and emotional process. Try to be patient and understanding and avoid judgment or criticism no matter how difficult your loved one’s condition has made life for you. These issues can be addressed during therapy later but right now they need your support.

3. Be a Good Listener

Detox can be a time of reflection and self-discovery and your loved one may be ready to discuss some of the issues surrounding their condition. Try to be open and always available for a chat and provide a safe space for your loved one to express their feelings and thoughts.

4. Encourage self-care

Self-care is important during the addiction detox process and beyond. Encourage your loved one to engage in activities that promote physical and emotional well-being during their time in detox such as exercise, healthy eating and getting to know the other people at their recovery centre.

5. Stay in touch

This means coming to visit when your loved one’s detox centre allows, always being available for a phone call, sending letters and taking advantage of any other ways to stay connected and show that you are there for them.

6. Seek Support

Supporting a loved one during the addiction detox process can be challenging, so you may want to seek support for yourself as well. Joining a support group or getting counselling can help you manage your own emotions which will enable you to provide the best possible support for your loved one.

How to begin a detox programme at Banbury Lodge

Are you struggling with a substance dependency and looking to get started on your recovery journey? Get in touch with Banbury Lodge today and we can give you more information about our detox for addiction programmes and help you begin the process.

Frequently asked questions

What is medical detox?

Medical detox is a type of detox that takes place under the supervision of healthcare professionals. It involves 24/7 monitoring and potentially the use of medications to manage withdrawal symptoms and ensure your comfort and safety throughout the detox process. While you may be able to detox without medical intervention, medical detox may be necessary for individuals with severe substance use disorders or those with a history of medical or psychiatric issues.

How long will my body take to detox from addictive substances?

The length of time it takes for the body to detox from an addictive substance depends on several factors including the type of substance, the amount and frequency of use, your metabolism and any underlying medical conditions. For example, detox from alcohol can take several days to several weeks while detox from some drugs, such as opioids, can take several weeks to several months, with the timeline process also varying greatly from person to person.

Do behavioural addictions require detox?

Behavioural addictions, such as gambling, sex addiction and internet addiction do not involve putting any substances into your body so they do not typically require detox. However, some people with behavioural addictions may also have co-occurring substance use disorders and may require detox to overcome that physical dependence.