Is it Possible to Do an Opiate Detox at Home?
Drug Addiction Recovery Requires Strong Willpower
Aug 10, 2009
One thing that often keeps an addict from starting the recovery process is the fear of the opiate detox withdrawals. Opiate addiction is a mental and physically demanding, and the continued use of drugs makes the opiate withdrawals more severe. When the addict finally decides to quit drugs, rehab may not be an option. Rehab facilities are costly, so the only option is to attempt recovery at home. Opiate detox can be accomplished at home, but the addict needs a strong will to quit drugs.
Opiate Detox Expectations
The opiate withdrawals begin within 24-48 hours after cessation from the drugs. The body physically requires the drugs, so the cravings are some of the most severe at this point. Some opiate addicts give into the cravings shortly after the attempt to quit. If the addict is determined to keep going, opiate detox continues for approximately a week.
Some addicts choose to take off from work. The withdrawals from opiate detox cause insomnia, diarrhea, vomiting, and depression. Several over-the-counter remedies help with the severe opiate withdrawal symptoms. Purchase these over-the-counter drugs prior to the date for withdrawal, because leaving the home is difficult during the most severe symptoms.
Avoid Other Addicts during Opiate Detox
One part of the opiate detox that makes addicts return to old habits is keeping the same friends. Friends who use don’t abstain from drug use while the addict is in recovery. It’s essential for the drug user to avoid other addicts while in recovery and opiate detox. Some people choose to stop all communication with other users to lower the amount of temptation for relapse.
Dealing with Depression after Opiate Detox
After the initial opiate detox, addicts deal with depression. Some addicts report that the depression is worse than the withdrawals. The patient needs an outlet for the thoughts and cravings or relapse is probable. The best method for depression treatment after opiate detox is psychiatric therapy. The psychiatrist may recommend certain drug therapies like seroquel or benzodiazepines to cope with the anxiety and mood changes after opiate detox. It’s important for the addict to be honest with the psychiatrist. Psychiatrists are trained to help the patient through the difficult mental cravings and depression that follow the physical difficulties.
Dealing with the constant cravings and depression after opiate detox is a constant struggle for any addict. However, opiate detox from home is possible. The patient needs complete dedication to his recovery, and through strong willpower and support, the patient will be successful.
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