Detoxification is a simple process in theory. It requires abstaining from addictive substances completely for a period of time to allow all of the toxins to come out of your system. You may think if you abuse alcohol, for instance, when you wake up the next morning you are already detoxed from the night before. In fact, most people who abuse substances maintain a baseline of toxicity at all times.
Detox is actually a natural process the body goes through on a regular basis to eliminate any toxins, including substances that can be abused. What complicates this process for people suffering from addiction is their strong desire to take more drugs. For detox to work, you have to stop putting more toxins into your system. For many, that simple step is a real challenge.
The power of addiction to alter behaviors is very strong, which is why you find yourself taking substances at the risk of good health or even death. The initial abstinence from substance abuse required to complete detox will be your first big challenge on the road to recovery. It is best if you have assistance at this point in the journey. It can be easy to give up and never even get to the good parts of recovery.
Like many aspects of addiction recovery, detox is personal and specific to each individual. Some of the variables include what substance or substances you are taking, how long you have been abusing substances, and how much and how frequently you dose yourself.
