Withdrawal can be one of the most painful experiences when trying to detox from drugs or alcohol. Oftentimes, the symptoms of withdrawal are so strong, that many people will relapse or even overdose. That’s why it’s always best to be involved with a professional detox program to prevent this from happening. However, to further the process, there are some steps you can take to safely detox at home.
Wear Comfortable Clothing and Have Pain Relief
One of the benefits of drug detoxification is that clothing and medication are usually provided to you. If you’re detoxing at home, be sure to wear clothing that isn’t tight so that you can be comfortable, especially made from fabrics that will wick away sweat. Also, have over-the-counter pain relievers on hand to help deal with headaches and body aches.
Increase Electrolytes
Dehydration is one of the more dangerous symptoms resulting from withdrawal, and can even send you to the hospital. Eat fruit and drink electrolyte beverages to keep this in balance. Your dehydration symptoms will be reduced and your detox process will be more enjoyable.
Engage In Gentle Movement
It wouldn’t hurt to do some yoga or light walking to keep the body moving. This can help to balance neurotransmitters, move the toxins out of your body a little faster, and serve as a distraction throughout the detoxing process.
Focus On You
Get rid of any obligations you might have during this time. It can mean that you’ll have to miss school and/or work, but the point is to reduce your stress as much as possible so that you can focus on getting better.
Reduce Gastrointestinal Stress
One of the most common withdrawal symptoms is nausea. There are some medications you can take for this. You can also keep ginger ale or ginger tea on hand to help soothe the nausea. Avoid spicy and heavily seasoned food to minimize symptoms and give your stomach the break it needs.
Have Healthy Food on Hand
Healthy food like fruits and vegetables can actually help your body detox a little bit faster. Resist the temptation to buy junk food to keep at home to help you feel good because it will only worsen matters.
Have a Strong Support System
Let friends and family know how you’re doing and what they can do to help you throughout the process. You can also ask them to check in on you at specific times and don’t be afraid to ask for help.
Try Supplements and Herbal Remedies
Check with your doctor beforehand to see if some supplements or herbal remedies suit you. For example, you might want to try melatonin capsules or St. John’s Wort to help you sleep at night and reduce tremors.
Research Detoxification
You want to set yourself up for success, so look up what you should expect during the process. That way, you’re not left confused and worried about your health.
Going through detox is not pleasant for anyone, but there are steps you can take to make the process easier. Speak to a medical professional to help you develop the right plan to get over your addiction and start the detoxification process.
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I'm Alice and I live with a dizzying assortment of invisible disabilities, including ADHD and fibromyalgia. I write to raise awareness and end the stigma surrounding mental and chronic illnesses of all kinds.
