Have you hit rock bottom? Are you even surprised you’re asking yourself that question? Many times, that’s what those who have substance misuse disorders or addiction will do—ask themselves if they’re at the point they need to go through detox. Wanting to know if you need a drug detox California facility’s help to recover and live a sober life is ultimately a decision you need to make with your doctor. But there are some signs you can look for as well.
What Is The Difference Between Addiction And Dependence?
You may know of the services drug detox California facilities offer, but you’re not sure if they’re for you just yet. One of the most important things you need to think about when considering rehab is to know that there is a difference between dependence and addiction. They often look different, but both can lead to devastating effects on you and your relationships.
Dependence vs. Addiction and When CA Drug Detox Is Necessary
Dependence is merely what it sounds like—your body’s gradual adaptation to having a substance over a period of time and becoming ‘used to it’ or ‘tolerant.’ Dependence means you may find that you need the substance to ward off withdrawal symptoms if you slow down or quit using. Tolerance means that not only do you need it, but you need more of it because the effects are not the same as when you first started.
The truth of the matter is that not everyone who uses substances, whether legal or not, is addicted to them. Physical dependence can still exist even if you’re not showing addiction-related symptoms or behaviors. Addiction is a chronic disease that affects your physical and mental health. With addiction, you often will continue to use the substance, despite possible harm to yourself or others because you suffer from uncontrollable cravings. You may appear to have things more ‘together with dependence,’ but there may be danger ahead. Dependence can lead to addiction, as the difference is not limited to how often you use it.
Types of Dependence
It’s important to note that there’s a big difference in types of dependence as well. You may develop a dependence on caffeine or nicotine or even sugar. These may not look very dangerous on the surface, but dependence on them can lead to addiction with long-term health impacts. Conversely, you can just as easily become addicted to a substance without first being dependent upon it. It’s interesting to note that the brain pathways responsible for addiction to drugs like heroin are different from the paths responsible for a physical dependence on heroin. When you use heroin, your brain’s reward system and pathways receive and maintain pleasure signals. It’s the thalamus and brainstem, however, that carry signals of dependence on heroin.
When it comes to deciding whether you need drug detox in California, options need to be managed by a physician for the best success. Often, if you have a dependence, you need treatment just as much to prevent any progression to addiction.
Signs To Look For When Deciding About Drug Detox (California)
Again, it’s essential to consult with a physician when it comes to asking whether you need drug detox or not. But, several signs would indicate you could, and you should always discuss with your physician.
Some physical signs include:
- Increased tolerance of substances
- Withdrawal symptoms like cravings, seizures, sweats, trembling, gastrointestinal distress, mood swings, and abnormal behaviors
- Appetite changes (increased or decreased)
- Injury due to alcohol or drug use (accidents, brain damage, disease transmission)
- Insomnia
- Appearance/hygiene changes
Mental signs you might need drug detox (California) resources include:
- Continued use despite ‘knowing better’ or rejecting health consequences
- Difficulty or inability to stop using the substance
- Worrying about future dosages
- Risky behavior engagement (theft, DUI, etc.)
- Increasing dosage due to tolerances
- Using a substance to deal with emotions or life situations
Social behavior indicators you may need (California) drug detox:
- Lack of interest in hobbies or relationships
- Relationship difficulties
- Lack of concern for (and acquisition of) legal consequences (DUI/DWI/OWI)
- Denial there’s an issue
- Lying or hiding behaviors
- Responsibility avoidance
- Stashing substances ‘for emergency’
Even if you or your loved ones believe you show some of these symptoms, you may still not be sure detox is for you. This is when healthcare professionals can look at your symptoms and the severity and help empower you to make the right choices for your health.
The American Society of Addiction Medicine has formed guidelines that a professional will use to assess your detox needs. They include:
- Withdrawal potential
- Severity of addiction
- Behavioral, Emotional and Cognitive conditions
- Willingness to get help and make change
- Relapse potential
- Recovery environment options
Ocean Hills Recovery: A Drug Detox California Facility You Can Count On
The first (and often the hardest) step to recovery from addiction is admitting you may need help. That you’re even asking if you need drug detox is a brave start, and at Ocean Hills Recovery, we’re well-prepared to walk with you. We have compassionate and experienced clinicians who will take a customized approach to your treatment. The earlier you make this choice, the sooner you’ll be on your path to sobriety. Our licensed staff has many years of experience successfully working with dependence and addiction, and we’re ready for you to contact us today.
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