Drug Detox: Spotting The Signs Of Drug Abuse And Stepping In To Help

Each year there are millions of people who require treatment for drug addiction. And there are still more people suffering from the disease who do not seek treatment for their addiction. This may be due to inability to find proper treatment, cost, or lack of insurance. Rehab is one of the most common ways to battle drug addiction. The length of the programs varies depending on the person, addiction, and facility. If you feel that you or someone you love needs to seek drug treatment, please read this guide for the signs of abuse, the process of withdrawal, and what to expect during detox:

What are the signs of drug abuse?

There are a few telltale signs that someone you love is addicted to drugs. The behavioral changes include:

• Change in personality

• Dramatic changes in habits

• Sudden financial problems

• Increased irritability

• Lethargic

• Depression

• Change in social habits

There may also be some physical changes as well, such as:

• Sudden changes in weight

• Bloodshot eyes

• Abnormal pupils

• Bruises or marks where a needle may enter the body

If you notice any of these changes in someone you know, please take steps to get them help. You can offer them information about programs in the area, support groups, or even arrange an intervention if you feel it is necessary. Be with them every step of the way. If they decide to get help, it will be a long road to recovery and they will need someone to lean on.

What are the signs of detox?

Once they have entered a program and are in the process of detoxification, they will experience strong withdrawals. The beginning is always the worst part. They will feel like they are going out of their mind because their body is craving the drug. Some of the common signs of drug withdrawal include:

• Mood swings

• Tremors

• Suicidal thoughts or behaviors

• Muscle aches

• Nausea

• Anxiety or paranoia

• Depression

The withdrawal symptoms and length of withdrawal always depends on the type of addiction the person is suffering from. Some drugs have are short-acting and the withdrawal symptoms occur almost immediately. Other drugs have a delayed withdrawal of a few days.

What type of programs are available for detox?

There are a few different detox programs that can be used for addicts who are seeking help for their addiction:

• Inpatient: Inpatient detox is recommended for a lot of patients seeking detox. The program makes sure patients are able to avoid relapse and have medical care on hand for emergencies. Inpatient programs offer substance abuse treatment and counseling for the entire time the patient is in the rehab facility. There is also a therapeutic follow-up program to make sure the patient stays sober.

• Outpatient: Sometimes outpatient care can be used in cases that are not considered severe. The patient will have regular check-ins with the program's staff to provide ongoing assistance with sobriety. A methadone clinic or medication to fight the addiction can be used instead of the standard inpatient care. For most people, this works best for people who can't afford other programs.

Considerations

Drug addiction is a disease. It is very serious and should be treated as such. Don't be afraid to speak out against someone you feel needs treatment. They may lash out at you. They may try to manipulate you or convince themselves that they don't have a problem. Stay strong and help them through it. Need a list of detox programs? There are many places that offer a list of rehabs. You can find centers based certain criteria like faith-based or state funded.

Contact a company like Evergreen Recovery Centers for more information and assistance.