Drug Detox in Arizona

Drug addiction must be challenged as soon as possible before it causes serious harm. However, cutting off the use of an addictive drug all at once or “going cold turkey” can trigger unsafe withdrawal symptoms. For many people, the right starting point of a rehab program is drug detox because it provides a safe space to slowly stop drug use safely. 

Decision Point Center in Arizona is proud to offer a medically supervised, safe drug detox program for any patient who needs it. If you or a loved one has a strong addiction to a drug or substance, then please call (844) 292-5010 now to see if our drug detox program could help.

What is Drug Addiction?

Drug addiction, also known as substance use disorder, is a chronic and relapsing condition characterized by compulsive drug seeking, use, and continued use despite harmful consequences. It's considered a brain disorder because drugs alter the brain's structure and function, leading to changes in behavior, judgment, and decision-making.

Addictive drugs can be broadly categorized into various types, each with its own potential for addiction and associated risks. Here are some common types of addictive drugs:

• Stimulants: These drugs increase alertness, attention, and energy, often leading to a sense of euphoria. Examples include cocaine, amphetamines, and methamphetamine.
• Depressants: These drugs slow down the central nervous system, inducing relaxation or sedation. They include alcohol, benzodiazepines (like Xanax or Valium), and barbiturates.
• Opioids: Opioids are potent pain relievers that can produce feelings of euphoria. Prescription opioids like oxycodone and hydrocodone, as well as illegal opioids like heroin, fall into this category.
• Hallucinogens: These drugs alter perception, thoughts, and feelings. Examples include LSD, psilocybin (magic mushrooms), and PCP.
• Cannabis: Marijuana, derived from the Cannabis plant, can cause altered perceptions and mood changes and can lead to addiction in some individuals.
• Nicotine: Found in tobacco products, nicotine is highly addictive and is a stimulant that affects the central nervous system.
• Inhalants: Substances like solvents, aerosols, and gases that are inhaled to produce mind-altering effects. They can cause immediate short-term effects and, in some cases, long-term damage.

Addiction to these substances can develop for various reasons, including genetic predisposition, environmental factors, and the drug's impact on brain chemistry. Over time, the brain adapts to the presence of the drug, leading to tolerance (needing more of the substance to achieve the same effect) and dependence (experiencing withdrawal symptoms when not using the drug).

Treatment for drug addiction often involves a combination of behavioral therapies, counseling, medications (for certain types of addiction), and support groups. It aims to help individuals manage cravings, address underlying issues, and learn coping strategies to lead a substance-free life.

Common Signs of Drug Addiction

Not all of these signs will be present in every case, and the severity can vary depending on the individual and the specific drug being used.

Here are some common signs of drug addiction:

• Increased Tolerance: Needing larger amounts of the substance to achieve the same effects is a classic sign of addiction. Over time, the body becomes accustomed to the drug, requiring higher doses for the desired result.
• Withdrawal Symptoms: Experiencing physical or psychological symptoms when attempting to stop using the drug. These symptoms can range from mild discomfort to severe reactions depending on the drug and the level of dependency.
• Loss of Control: Difficulty controlling or stopping drug use despite a desire to quit. The individual may have made unsuccessful attempts to cut down or stop using.
• Cravings: Strong urges or desires to use the drug, which can be intense and persistent. These cravings can be triggered by certain situations, emotions, or environments associated with drug use.
• Neglecting Responsibilities: Prioritizing drug use over responsibilities such as work, school, or family obligations. This can result in a decline in performance or neglect of duties.
• Changes in Behavior: Observable changes in behavior, such as increased secrecy, isolation from family and friends, sudden mood swings, or unexplained changes in personality.
• Physical Changes: Physical changes can occur due to drug use, such as bloodshot eyes, sudden weight changes, tremors, slurred speech, or changes in personal hygiene.
• Social and Interpersonal Issues: Strained relationships with family, friends, or coworkers due to drug use, lying, or engaging in risky behaviors.
• Engaging in Risky Behavior: Taking risks to obtain drugs, such as stealing, driving under the influence, or engaging in unsafe sexual practices.
• Loss of Interest: A decrease in interest in previously enjoyed activities or hobbies, as drug use becomes the primary focus.

It's important to note that experiencing one or two of these signs does not necessarily indicate drug addiction. However, when multiple signs are present, it might be indicative of a deeper issue requiring attention and possibly professional help or intervention.

What Happens During Drug Detox?

Drug detox places the patient in a safe, controlled environment with constant supervision from medically trained professionals. The purpose of this supervision is to reduce the risk that the patient will experience any unsafe withdrawal symptoms. Or if such symptoms do occur, the patient will have immediate access to medical care.

To treat withdrawal symptoms, trained detox professionals can administer medication to help the patients safely detox the addiction they are currently struggling with. This method does not cause a sharp rise in the patient’s urge to have another dose, like what would happen if they took the addictive substance unsupervised. On the other hand, it can significantly slow down or minimize the withdrawal symptoms caused by stopping the use of an addictive substance. 

Drug Detox Benefits

The main benefits of drug detox when done by the professionals of Decision Point Center include:

• Safer rehab procedures and treatments due to lessened risk of withdrawal symptoms.
• Reduced risk of relapsing due to drug cravings during rehab.
• Higher chance to stay sober for longer when rehab ends.
• Greater feeling of togetherness and community with others in detox and rehab.