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Dangers of Detoxing on Your Own

  • Reviewed by: Dr. Carl Williams, Ph.D., LCADC
  • Modified:
  • Reading Time: 8 minutes
  • Reviewed by: Dr. Carl Williams, Ph.D., LCADC
  • Last Update:
  • Reading Time: 8 minutes

Learn about the dangers of self-detox and the value of professional detox support with our guide on safe detox practices.

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Marketing campaigns and PSAs have effectively spread the word that drug use is never a good idea and that those currently abusing drugs must quit.

However, the warnings never make this clear that the right strategy to quit using drugs and the hazards of detoxifying alone in the comfort of one’s own house is not suitable.

Convulsions, hallucinations, sleeplessness, nausea, diarrhea, and fluctuations in appetite are just a few of the usual withdrawal symptoms experienced by those trying to stop using drugs.

It’s been shown that even quitting smoking may be deadly if it’s not done under medical care. Avoid trying to detox or withdraw from an addictive substance without the supervision of medical specialists.

Table of Contents

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Families & Addiction

Understanding Detox

Detoxification Procedures - How Do They Work?

One can withdraw from alcohol and drugs in a variety of different environments. Although it might be enticing to do it yourself, a professionally monitored detox can reduce uncomfortable withdrawal symptoms and handle any harmful side effects that may appear, making the individual as secure and as relaxed as possible while detoxing.

For many people, breaking the vicious cycle of drug or alcohol abuse requires confronting physical dependency and carefully navigating the withdrawal process.

The term “detoxification” describes the first stage of therapy, which consists of various measures to alleviate severe toxicity and withdrawal symptoms.

In this stage, individuals physically addicted to drugs or alcohol can purge their systems of the substances that have caused them harm.

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A Closer Look

Can Home Detox Be Risk-Free?

Detoxing from drugs or alcohol is safe if the substance does not cause severe withdrawal symptoms.

It’s essential to keep in mind that even if there aren’t many known health risks, you might still experience them. Many physical problems, including nausea and vomiting, are possible during detox, as reported by the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA).

People may die by aspirating their vomit, which is primarily a risk when a person’s awareness is disturbed.

Failing to control withdrawal symptoms may lead to a relapse or recurrence of addiction due to the unpleasant nature of withdrawal effects and underlying drug urges.

When withdrawal symptoms become unbearable, suppressing drug temptations may be very challenging. Profession help might be crucial in avoiding relapse and moving on with therapy.

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Safe & Effective Detox Process

Tips for a Healthy Detoxification from Alcohol and Drugs

When dealing with some forms of drug dependency, detoxing at home or in any other setting without competent withdrawal management may not be a safe option. It might be dangerous to stop cold turkey in some situations and with some drugs like alcohol.

Home detox might be risky if you develop increasingly severe withdrawal symptoms or consequences and don’t receive medical treatment.

If alcohol detox isn’t properly monitored, the patient may have life-threatening withdrawal symptoms, including tremors or extrapyramidal symptoms.

Additionally, if a person has a painful withdrawal without any medical support system, they may be more likely to relapse.

If you want to detox safely, you should see a doctor with expertise in addiction therapy or withdrawal management. This expert can give you an in-depth analysis of your current situation and potential dangers.

Your doctor may ask you questions to help determine the best course of therapy for you, including:

  • What drugs do you usually take?

  • How often, how much, and for how long have you used it?

  • Indicators of mental illness, whether historical or contemporary.

  • The state of your physical health and any relevant medical background.

  • A history of trying to quit or detox.

  • Support you get from family and friends.

Based on your responses, they may provide recommendations for the next steps in treatment.

A healthy individual without a significant physical reliance or a background of using a drug not generally linked with harmful withdrawal symptoms, such as hallucinogenic drugs or certain stimulants, may be able to undergo a natural or cold turkey detox.

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Exploring Detox Options

Medical Detoxification as an Outpatient Service

An outpatient detox program can be a good option if your therapist determines that you are not at high risk for a difficult or life-threatening withdrawal. Detoxification in an outpatient setting, as opposed to a hospital or a residential facility, can be accomplished by routine visits to a nearby hospital or treatment facility.

Medical professionals may sometimes visit patients in their homes to provide care and monitor their recovery. At each visit, your vital signs, degree of relaxation, and concerns can be checked regularly. Constant adjustments can be made to your treatment plan based on your current symptom status.

Care providers in outpatient settings may be a tremendous source of drive for patients as they work to overcome their addiction and avoid relapse by providing emotional and practical support throughout the detox process.

Medication to reduce the severity of withdrawal symptoms, enhance relaxation, and make the process less complicated might be offered.

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In Conclusion

The Benefits of Detoxification to Your Health

Detoxification from many substances, including alcohol, opiates, benzodiazepines, and other anti-depressants, can be best handled in a clinical setting. The hazards associated with drug and alcohol withdrawal can be mitigated with this standard of care and management.

Many people going through detoxification are unprepared for the range and severity of the symptoms, which may affect both physical and emotional well-being. Dangerous symptoms, including psychotic episodes, convulsions, and heart issues, may develop during withdrawal, which are just mild ones.

There is a risk of grand mal seizure in as many as 30 percent of those who detox off sedatives without medical supervision.

It is impossible to know in advance which drug users may have severe withdrawal symptoms.

A person's mental health may suffer if withdrawal is not handled correctly,which may lead to the following:

  • Depression.

  • Aggression and rage.

  • Anxiety and contemplation of death 

  • Feelings of worthlessness.

  • Misguided beliefs and excessive suspicion.

  • Night terrors.

These mental health symptoms may reach a crisis point when the person’s detoxification threatens damage to oneself or others.

When detoxing under medical supervision, mental health concerns can be considered, and appropriate treatment can be administered.

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Written By:

Dr. Saman Aftab, Ph.D.

Dr. Saman Aftab, Mental Health write at Rolling Hills
Rolling Hills Recovery Center

Mental Health Writer

About Author:

Dr. Saman is a mental health writer with over six years of experience in freelance writing, editing, and proofreading. She is a practicing healthcare professional holding a doctorate in physical therapy at DOW University of Health Sciences. Dr. Saman started content writing to blend her passion for writing and medicine with her extensive clinical experience.

Medically Reviewed By:

Dr. Carl Williams Ph.D., LCADC

Carl Williams, medical content reviewer at rolling hills recovery center
Rolling Hills Recovery Center

Expert Contributor

About Reviewer:

Dr. Williams presently serves on the board of Directors for two non-profit service organizations. He holds a Master’s degree in Human Services from Lincoln University, Philadelphia, Pa, and a Ph.D. with a concentration in Clinical Psychology from Union Institute and University. In Cincinnati, Ohio. He is licensed to practice addictions counseling in both New Jersey and Connecticut and has a pending application as a practicing Psychologist in New Jersey.

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