Drug detox is the process of ceasing your physical addiction. You can become addicted to many types of substances. It’s even possible to form a dependence on certain types of habits, some of which can be very useful, such as running, creative practices, and getting enough sleep. But when addiction to a substance causes personality changes, health problems, relationship issues, legal troubles, or financial woes, those types of addictions may require the assistance of a drug detox program. Drug detox can be the most important step you can take to empower real and lasting change in your life. But once you have undergone a drug detox program, what are the next steps? Clearhaven Recovery Center can help you if you have finished drug detox in Massachusetts. Our drug addiction programs can give you the support you need to make meaningful steps in your life.

Do I Really Need Drug Detox?

Drug detox is one of the most important steps for moving into addiction recovery. Detox is a shortened term for the physical detoxification process the body undergoes as an addictive substance is removed. Because your body will become physically dependent on addictive substances, the body will take certain actions to communicate to you that it is in need of the substance upon removal. Drug addiction and dependence can affect your brain chemistry and your physical health throughout your body, including your circulatory system, your muscles and nerves, and your digestive system. When you have become dependent on the use of very serious substances, those dependencies can become extremely difficult to overcome and even life-threatening if handled without the assistance of a drug detox program.

Common Drugs That May Require Drug Detox

Drug detox is a serious process that can put the body through major stressors. You may need the assistance of medical professionals if you are struggling with an addiction to any of the following substances:

  • Opioids such as heroin, Norco, OxyContin, Percocets, or Vicodin
  • Benzodiazepines such as Xanax, Valium, Klonopin, or Ativan
  • Alcohol
  • Stimulants such as Ritalin, Adderall, Dexedrine, methamphetamines, or cocaine
  • Prescription drugs not listed above such as Ambien, muscle relaxers, or sleep aids

If you are struggling with addiction to any of the above medications, or illicit substances, you may require the help of a drug detox program. The detox process for many of these types of drugs can be damaging to your health. Drug addiction is something that you can overcome with the right help, though.

Withdrawal Symptoms

The symptoms of detox can be extremely painful, confusing, and even life-threatening. Depending on the substance you are addicted to, this can be a more urgent or mild experience. Certain drugs, like cocaine or heroin, can cause withdrawal symptoms that are very serious after just one use. The amount of time that you have been addicted can also change your experience. If you have been a lifelong alcoholic, you may have health problems that will persist after your drug detox. Some of the symptoms reported during drug detox include the following:

  • Muscle cramps
  • Insomnia
  • Nausea
  • Racing heart
  • Vomiting
  • Anxiety
  • Depression
  • High fever
  • Irritability
  • Tremors
  • Spasms
  • Diarrhea
  • Headaches
  • Psychosis
  • Hallucinations
  • Seizures
  • Cardiac arrest

These painful and dangerous symptoms can complicate your ability to stick to drug detox. This is why a drug detox program is so important. When you receive a comprehensive physical detox and aftercare that reinforces emotional dependency detox, you can best maintain your sobriety.

Drug Detox and Aftercare

Making sure that you receive the right emotional treatment and aftercare is a necessary step in the process of your recovery. Once your body is free from dependency, you will have to work hard to free yourself from the coping mechanisms that drove you to substance use. Finding the right treatment center after you have undergone your physical drug detox in Massachusetts may be difficult. But at Clearhaven Recovery Center, you will find compassionate and knowledgeable professionals to support your needs. Our individualized care programs offer the insight to change your habits and the space to work through your recovery.

Support for Drug Detox at Clearhaven Recovery Center

If you are considering drug detox in Massachusetts, Clearhaven Recovery Center can be the next step you need to maintain your sobriety. Drug addiction can transform your life in ways that make it hard to recognize the best parts of yourself. Call Clearhaven Recovery Center at 833.970.2054 to take back control of your life. Our flexible and personalized care will give you a path for your lasting and meaningful recovery.


clearhaven recovery addiction treatment logoClearhaven Recovery is an addiction treatment center in Waltham, Massachusetts. Through treatment programs founded on the time-tested 12 step approach and clinical immersion, participants rediscover life free from drug and alcohol addiction. If you or a loved one is in need of addiction recovery services in the greater Boston area, Clearhaven Recovery can help.