What to Expect During Drug Withdrawal

Depending on substances such as drugs can have numerous adverse effects on both your body and mind. Here at The Turning Point, we provide drug detox for those in Hamilton at our Auckland centre, helping to transform the lives of those with drug addictions. 

In particular, this blog will focus on what you could expect when it comes to drug withdrawals and the signs and symptoms to be aware of. Let’s take a look at these in more detail.

What is Drug Withdrawal?

Drug withdrawal occurs when your body has acclimated to the chronic use of drugs, and then you suddenly stop the drug intake. The severity of withdrawal symptoms can vary between individuals, and is mostly dependent on the substance and the frequency of drug use.

This is also known as going ‘cold turkey’, and can be dangerous if not properly supervised, which is why it is crucial that you seek treatment at a detox facility like ours in Auckland.  

Drug Withdrawal Symptoms

As mentioned, the symptoms of drug withdrawal can vary from individual to individual, but there are common signs and symptoms to keep an eye out for, including:

  • Irritability and/or restlessness 

  • Soreness

  • Lack of appetite or increased appetite 

  • Difficulty concentrating 

  • Difficulty sleeping - frequent nightmares

  • Intense cravings

Meanwhile, there are also less common drug withdrawal symptoms that should not be ignored, such as:

  • Vomiting

  • Diarrhoea 

  • Suicidal thoughts and/or depression

  • Tremors and shakes

  • Light, touch, sound sensitivity

  • Irregular heartbeat 

  • Sweating and/or chills

If you experience the above, please seek assistance from a medical professional. 

Severe symptoms that require immediate medical assistance include:

  • Seizures

  • Hallucinations, delusions, and/or psychosis

  • High blood pressure

  • Extreme confusion 

Please avoid attempting to detox without the support of health professionals. 

At The Turning Point, we offer drug detox for individuals in Hamilton, urging them to seek treatment at our centre in Auckland. Take the first step in your journey to sobriety with The Turning Point by enquiring about our drug detox services at our Auckland centre. Please don’t hesitate to contact us for more information or if you have any further questions.