Causes
Causes of Substance Withdrawal
The abuse of drugs and/or alcohol can lead to countless negative repercussions in an individual’s life. Regardless of whether a person is abusing alcohol, heroin, prescription medications, methamphetamines, cocaine, other stimulants, or any other type of substance, he or she is placing him or herself at risk for experiencing any number of detriments. One’s health can be placed in jeopardy, one’s career can become disrupted, one’s social interactions can decline, and one’s family life can be destroyed. When an individual’s use of a substance begins to cause such disruptions in his or her ability to function appropriately on a daily basis, it is likely that an addiction has developed.
As individuals continue to consume drugs or alcohol, their bodies begin to become accustomed to the presence of those substances in their systems. As this occurs, a tolerance can develop, meaning that these individuals have to consume more of their chosen substances in order to achieve the same desired effects. As the amount consumed continues to increase, a physical dependence on the substance can develop, meaning that the individual’s body is no longer able to function without the presence of the substance in his or her system. As a result, when a person then tries to cease his or her use of the substance, withdrawal symptoms will ensue as the body attempts to regulate itself to the way it functioned prior to the introduction of the substance.
This process of withdrawal can be extremely uncomfortable, painful, and, at times, even lethal. However, the distress that an individual experiences can be immediately alleviated once the substance is reintroduced into his or her system. For this reason, it is extremely common for individuals to resume their drug and/or alcohol consumption in an attempt to find relief. However, participating in treatment at a rehab center allows greater safety and decreased risk of relapse during the withdrawal process.
Signs & Symptoms
Signs of Substance Withdrawal
The signs that are displayed by an individual who is experiencing drug or alcohol withdrawal will vary from person to person depending on a number of factors. The specific type of substance that has been consumed, the frequency of that consumption, and the length of time during which the consumption has taken place can all impact the type and severity of symptoms that arise. Examples of various signs and symptoms that could be indicative of drug or alcohol withdrawal can include, but are not limited to, the following:
- Strong cravings for the person’s substance or substances of choice
- Excessive sweating
- Fatigue
- Runny nose
- Fever
- Teary/watery eyes
- Vomiting
- Bone pain
- Nausea
- Muscle pain
- Diarrhea
- Stomach pain
- Increased heartrate
- Shakiness
- Vision disturbances
- Changes in body temperature
- Alterations in appetite
- Weight loss or weight gain
- Sleep disturbances
- Memory impairment
- Hallucinations
- Agitation
- Poor concentration
- Irritability
- Drastic shifts in mood
- Anxiety
- Aggression
- Depression
- Suicidal thoughts and behaviors
If you suspect that a loved one is suffering from drug or alcohol withdrawal, or if you, yourself, have gone into a state of withdrawal, it is imperative that you seek medical attention, preferably from a rehab center.
Seeking Treatment
Why Seek Treatment for Substance Abuse & Drug Addiction
As was previously mentioned, the withdrawal process can not only be extremely uncomfortable but, in some instances, it can be life-threatening as well. It can be excessively difficult for individuals to go through the withdrawal period on their own, which is why so many remain stuck in the seemingly endless cycle of substance abuse and addiction. Fortunately, however, there are rehab centers that provide treatment to help individuals get through the period of withdrawal and successfully embark on the road to recovery.
One such option for treatment is residential care. When individuals enter a residential rehab center, they are afforded the opportunity to receive detoxification services, which can help make the process of withdrawal more comfortable and tolerable. Medical personnel, such as registered nurses, are typically on hand to monitor the detox process, ensuring the individual’s comfort and safety as toxic substances are removed from his or her system. Once the detoxification process is complete, and all dangerous substances have been successfully cleared from a person’s system, a variety of therapeutic interventions can then be implemented in order to help individuals overcome their addictive behaviors and prevent future relapse.
At Mirror Lake Recovery Center, our professional staff of addiction treatment specialists is devoted to helping individuals successfully navigate the recovery process. Beginning with detox, working through the comprehensive care offered in residential treatment, and then receiving appropriate aftercare services, those who engage in programming at Mirror Lake will be able to achieve sobriety and remain free from future substance abuse. At Mirror Lake Recovery Center, we want to help you discover the person that you want to be; a person free from the grips of addiction.
