Detoxification

Detoxification is a process of facilitating safe withdrawal from drugs or alcohol. Withdrawal from drugs, particularly alcohol can be dangerous or even life threatening and it is essential it is done with professional supervision.

The length of detox is dependent upon a number of factors including the length of use, level of dependence and the drugs used.

At the Providence Projects over 2,000 patients have successfully completed their detox. Our medical team headed by Dr Peter Turnbull ensures that assessment is directed toward optimal management of physical ill health with particular attention to the potential physical and emotional complications of the primary addictive illness.

What are Withdrawal Symptoms?

Central to the role of nearly all drugs that are commonly abused is the reward circuitry or the “pleasure centre” of the brain. The science behind the production of a sense of euphoria is very complex and still questioned within the scientific community. While neurologists have discovered that addiction encompasses several areas of the brain, the amygdala, /prefrontal Cortex, and the nucleus accumbens are specifically responsible for the pleasurable feelings one may experience when using a mind or mood altering substance. Within the nucleus accumbens neurotransmitter is dopamine. While specific mechanisms vary, nearly every drug either stimulates dopamine release or enhances its activity, directly or indirectly. Sustained use of the drug results in less and less stimulation of the nucleus accumbens until eventually it produces no euphoria at all. Discontinuation of the drug then produces a withdrawal syndrome characterised by dysphoria (the opposite of euphoria) as nucleus accumbens activity declines below its normal level.

Withdrawal symptoms can vary significantly among individuals, but there are some commonalities. Subnormal activity in the nucleus accumbens is often characterised by depression, anxiety and craving. If extreme it will often drive the individual to continue the drug use despite significant harm (the definition of addiction) or even to suicide. In general the longer half life of the drug, the longer the acute abstinence syndrome is likely to last.

Withdrawal is a more serious medical issue for some substances than for others. Attempting to stop using some chemicals can lead to seizures and in some cases fatalities if not managed properly.

It is important to note that detox alone is very often not the solution for the ‘addict’ or ‘alcoholic’. It is often necessary and the beginning of the treatment process but without follow-up treatment the chances of long-term success are slim.

If you need further information regarding detox or treatment, please call 01202 39 30 30 or complete the call back request form and we will call you back immediately.

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