Overcoming the effects of addiction is difficult, with each step bringing new challenges to overcome. However, there is no “easy” way to overcome addiction, with detox presenting many unique challenges to those just beginning their journey to a healthier, sober life. Hawaii Island Recovery embraces the daily hard work it takes to challenge and overcome addiction, but that doesn’t mean that there aren’t options to help navigate this important initial phase of recovery. Talking to professionals at Hawaii Island Recovery can empower each person to approach the challenges of detox with the most comprehensive and personalized plan possible for success in sobriety.
Preparing for the Hard Work
No part of addiction recovery is easy, and each person will still have to put in effort daily to embrace a sober lifestyle. Knowing and preparing for the challenges ahead can be the first step in creating an effective plan.
Detox comes with drastic changes to the body, mind, and daily schedule. Many of those just beginning their journey to sobriety will be met with an array of unique situations, with withdrawal and other challenges being common. Some of the challenges of detox include:
- Anxiety
- Depression
- Nausea and vomiting
- Shaking and trembling
- Insomnia
- Intense urges and cravings to reengage with drugs or alcohol
- Mood swings and emotional distress
- Doubt
- Feelings of uncertainty
- Various medical needs
Detox is a time of immense physical and emotional change. Not only can the sudden absence of drugs or alcohol cause the body and mind to react drastically but detox also comes with a change in daily routine, providing a new structure and routine to daily life that can be vastly different from what a person may be used to.
Those overcoming alcohol addiction can also face a unique challenge depending on their frequency and intensity of use. In some cases of alcohol withdrawal, cases of delirium tremens (DT) are possible and require dedicated and swift medical attention to navigate. Not only can DT be life-threatening but medical support is paramount during this time.
Creating a Plan to Navigate the Challenges of Detox
Each recovery journey is unique. While detox can be a difficult and intense time of change, it is always possible to overcome the challenges of detox, progress to further levels of care, and reach new sober milestones. Commitment to hard work and the right support through our treatment centers in Hawaii can empower each person to find a lasting approach to a new, sober life.
Exploring Medication Options
For some, the challenges of detox can be intense, especially when combined with existing mental health disorders and various other needs. While not all people will necessarily need medication to navigate the challenges of detox, it is a helpful option available. Working with Hawaii Island Recovery’s on-site medical staff can help each person decide if medication-assisted treatment (MAT) is right for them, as well as their goals and expectations surrounding the use of medication.
No medication can “cure” addiction, nor is medication a replacement for other forms of therapy and personal hard work. However, it can provide the necessary support to address personal challenges, emotional health needs, and withdrawal symptoms while developing new skills in sobriety.
A Community of Change
Addiction recovery is complicated, and many of those just beginning their sober journey may still feel isolated in their story. Not only can the disease of addiction be physically and emotionally isolating itself but committing to a detox program can add to this feeling of detachment from others. However, having access to a community of peers during this time can help reinforce each person’s decision and motivate them through such a difficult time.
Talking with others who understand the challenges of detox and recovery can be necessary to challenge feelings of isolation and foster a sense of belonging that can further empower those in detox to see their recovery through. Many of Hawaii Island Recovery’s staff have navigated addiction recovery themselves, creating an accepting and understanding community of professionals and peers alike.
Navigating the Challenges of Detox With Around-The-Clock Support
Detox is complicated, and it can be difficult to predict exactly how each person will react to these emotional and physiological changes upon the cessation of drugs or alcohol. Around-the-clock support can be paramount to navigating unexpected challenges. At-home detox efforts can be difficult to see through as an individual may still be surrounded by reminders of past use or challenges that they were unprepared for, making slips and relapse common without ready access to professional support.
Access to trained professionals at any time can empower those in detox to identify the manifestation of new challenges at any time while continuing to personalize each person’s recovery plan for the most effective and educated approach to sustainable success.
Preparing for Continued Success
Detox is difficult, but it is not the end of a person’s recovery journey. Rather, it can be the beginning of a truly transformative sober lifestyle, with each person transitioning to higher levels of care for sustained sobriety. Professional treatment programs and continued addiction recovery support empower each person to maintain these changes while tackling higher goals and creating effective relapse-prevention plans for any stage of recovery.
Navigating detox is difficult, and it is common for many of those just beginning their sober journey to be met with a myriad of unique challenges during this time. At Hawaii Island Recovery, we understand the need for truly effective care to navigate detox, and our treatment centers in Hawaii are equipped to help you explore your options during this time of change. We offer an array of emotional support and therapy options, all backed by a supportive community, constant care, and medication as necessary to help you begin your sober journey with the best support possible. For more information on how we can help you take the first step toward your sober future, call us at (866) 390-5070.