Nobody knows us better than we know ourselves. And our bodies are often the greatest advocates for us to make life-altering changes for the better. Our bodies have a way of telling us to stop overindulging. Our body sends us small reminders that we have overdone it, had one too many. The signals it sends are sometimes subtle, and other times are glaringly obvious. The body knows when it cannot keep up with the lifestyle. In no uncertain terms, it is telling us it’s time to reset. This is where the detoxification process can come into play, especially as it relates to alcohol and drug detox.
Detoxification is the process of clearing the body of drugs or alcohol. It generally occurs over a period of time where the body loses its ability to effectively rid itself of the toxins ingested either through drugs, alcohol, or a combination of both. The time to detoxify often depends on the type of substance abuse. However, there is no one size fits all formula and will depend on the kind of substance abuse and how the individual responds. Whether it’s cold turkey or with the help of licensed facilities, there are likely several signs your body is sending that it’s time to detox. A simple internet search should yield results for licensed facilities near you; if you live in Pennsylvania, try searching for detox centers in PA, or if you live in Portland, try searching detox centers in OR.
Signs it’s time to detox
Fatigue: There is nothing more telling than the feeling of being constantly tired. If you feel tired after a night’s sleep, yearn to nap midday, or are just struggling to stay awake, it is very likely fatigue has settled in. Your body is begging for the chance to reset and rest.
Constipation: No one wants to admit they can’t have a bowel movement, but this is a telling sign from your body. Toxins build up in the liver and are then passed through the digestive system and out of the body. The inability to have a bowel movement results in excess toxins in the system, creating a heightened awareness detox may be necessary. Constipation can also lead to increased irritability and general discomfort.
Skin Issues: These issues can range from blotchy skin to acne outbreaks as well as bad breath and body odor. The skin is used to rid the body of toxins. When the liver can no longer effectively filter toxins from the body, the skin releases those toxins. Changes in your skin’s appearance, bad breath, and body odors are a sign it’s time to detox.
Headaches: High toxic levels in the brain can lead to an excessive number of headaches. If these become constant, it could be a sign that the body is overloaded with toxins.
Relationships: A non-physical casualty of alcohol and drug abuse is the toll it can take on day-to-day relationships. These relationships become strained and are often a casualty when abuse is prevalent. The desire to mend these relationships is a key in recognizing the need to detox.
The Detox Process
Once committed to the idea of detoxification, there can be side effects associated with that as well. Detox centers often specialize in managed care of the detoxification process so that the body can safely begin the recovery process. These programs vary from inpatient to outpatient but provide the supervision necessary to detoxify without trying to go it alone. Inpatient care offers a supervised environment where withdrawal symptoms can be closely monitored and addressed. Both physical and psychological side effects are usually associated with the detox process, including, but not limited to, headaches, anxiety, confusion, insomnia, irritability, and shaking. Approaches to the detox process can vary, so seeking professional guidance is imperative to successful detox from drugs and alcohol. Once the detoxification process has been completed, a long-term plan to treat addiction can be created.
The bottom line to detoxification is to listen to what your body is telling you. Recognize the signs that it is overloaded and needs to reset by getting clean. Professional help through a detox center is the first step to a healthy mind and body.
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