Heroin addiction is among the worst drug addictions a person can endure. During the beginning, everything feels euphoric and peaceful. Within a short period, however, the addiction takes hold, and things quickly become unpleasant. Many people who attempt to stop using heroin will face severe withdrawal symptoms. Still, the addict has to face the fact they will have to eventually detox or remain a heroin addict until the unspeakable happens. So, how long does it take to detox from heroin?
At Serenity House Detox & Recovery Florida, we’re committed to providing the best possible treatments for those suffering from addictions to heroin and other substances. Our team offers evidence-based therapies to support our clients as they take the first steps toward recovery. In addition, we are at each client’s side throughout the detox process. To learn more about our services or to enroll in our heroin detox center, please contact Serenity House Detox & Recovery Florida today at 866.294.5306.
What Are the Symptoms of Heroin Withdrawal?
When you try to quit heroin cold turkey, you will experience withdrawal symptoms as the drug leaves your body. These symptoms can range from mildly unpleasant to extremely uncomfortable, depending on your heroin use history. For many people, the physical and psychological discomfort can be unbearable enough to prompt a relapse just to get relief from the symptoms. Some of the most common heroin withdrawal symptoms include:
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Diarrhea
- Excessive sweating
- Shaking
- Muscle cramps and spasms
- Anxiety
- Depression
- Insomnia
Heroin withdrawal is not necessarily dangerous, but some of the above symptoms can lead to severe dehydration that requires medical attention. Also, anxiety and depression can be concerning if it is intense enough to lead to suicidal thoughts. You can protect yourself from discomfort and ensure your health and safety by getting help from a heroin detox center.
How Long Does It Take to Detox From Heroin?
Many people who use this potent opioid want to know how long it takes to detox from heroin. That’s a complicated question to answer. Much depends on the length and depth of the user’s addiction. Even then, an exact timetable is difficult to pin down. Here’s a general timeline someone can expect to encounter:
- First 48 hours – The first 48 hours will be the worst part of the heroin detox process. The user could begin feeling stomach cramps and muscle pain, sometimes severe. Other common withdrawal symptoms one might experience in the first two days include diarrhea, vomiting, insomnia, and anxiety.
- Days 3-5 – While the user might still suffer from stomach cramps, vomiting, and anxiety, the level of discomfort should start subsiding. Eating healthy foods during this time could be very helpful.
- Days 6-7 – With most of the physical symptoms of heroin withdrawal fading, it’s important to focus on the issues surrounding eating and sleeping. Again, the user should drink fluids, eat healthful foods and at least get some rest.
After a week, most people have recovered enough to begin some form of heroin addiction treatment. However, that does not mean they are out of the woods. For the next couple of months, the individual might still encounter neurological issues that warrant monitoring. A dual diagnosis treatment program may be needed to help manage depression, anxiety, or any other mental health concerns.
How a Heroin Detox Program Can Help
Drug addiction counselors and clinicians rarely recommend at-home detox due to the potential severity of withdrawal symptoms. With the availability of reputable heroin detox programs, there is no need to suffer through it alone.
To withdraw safely from heroin, a client can expect to spend time in a medically monitored detox program. Under the watchfulness of medical staff, the client can get medication to help with pain and sleeping issues. At all times, the detox facility wants its clients to be safe and comfortable. As you continue with the detox process, you can engage in one of many therapeutic options, such as:
- Cognitive-behavioral therapy
- Dialectical behavior therapy
- Group therapy
- Family therapy
- Individual therapy
Therapy is an essential part of any heroin addiction treatment program to treat co-occurring mental health conditions, teach coping skills, and reframe unhealthy thought patterns.
Get More Details About Serenity House Detox & Recovery
With Florida detox centers in Jupiter and Fort Lauderdale, Serenity House Detox & Recovery Florida prepares clients for the rigors of rehab and therapy. In addition to heroin, we offer detox services for a variety of substances, including:
- Alcohol detox program
- Painkiller detox program
- Cocaine detox program
- Benzo detox program
- Detox program for men
- Detox program for women
How long does it take to detox from heroin? Serenity House Detox & Recovery has answers. When you are ready to get help, you can call us at 866.294.5306. We will do everything in our power to keep your withdrawal discomfort to a minimum as you look to a brighter future.
