The decision to stop using drugs or alcohol can feel like stepping into the unknown. You may have heard about the challenges of withdrawal, the physical discomfort, and even the risks involved. It’s normal to wonder, “Can you die from withdrawal?” and the truth is, in some cases, withdrawal can be dangerous without proper medical care.
What makes withdrawal so unpredictable is how it affects everyone differently. For some, it’s a manageable process. For others, it can come with serious complications that require professional support. At Woodland Recovery Center, our drug detox center provides the medical supervision and emotional support needed to navigate this challenging stage. With the right team by your side, you can get through withdrawal safely and start focusing on the next chapter of your recovery. Call us at 662.222.2989 to learn more.
What Is Drug Withdrawal?
Drug withdrawal happens when your body reacts to not having a substance it’s gotten used to. Over time, using drugs or alcohol changes how your brain and body function. They start depending on the substance to work. When you stop, your body has to adjust, and that process can cause withdrawal.
Think of it like this: substances like alcohol or opioids slow certain brain functions. When you stop using them, your brain may suddenly speed things up, which can lead to uncomfortable or even dangerous symptoms. Withdrawal isn’t just about your body; it can affect your emotions and mind, too, making it a challenging experience.
The way withdrawal feels depends on a few things: the type of drug you’ve been using, how long you’ve been using it, and your overall health. It can be tough, but it’s also an important step toward breaking free from dependency.
Can You Die from Withdrawal?
Yes, withdrawal from certain substances can be life-threatening if not managed appropriately. Death from alcohol withdrawal, as well as from benzodiazepines and some prescription drugs, is well-documented. The risks stem from how these substances affect the central nervous system. When use is suddenly stopped, the body can become overwhelmed as it struggles to regain balance.
Withdrawal symptoms can range from mild discomfort to severe complications, such as:
- Seizures – Common with alcohol and benzodiazepine withdrawal, seizures can occur without warning and can be life-threatening.
- Delirium tremens (DTs) – A severe form of alcohol withdrawal that includes confusion, agitation, and hallucinations, DTs can lead to cardiovascular complications and death if untreated.
- Cardiac issues – Stimulant withdrawal can affect heart function, increasing the risk of heart attack or other complications.
- Severe dehydration – Vomiting and diarrhea from withdrawal symptoms can lead to dehydration, which, if untreated, can result in organ failure.
- Respiratory problems – Opioid withdrawal may cause breathing difficulties in severe cases.
These side effects of detoxing underscore the importance of seeking help from a professional drug detox center. Woodland Recovery Center provides medically supervised detox programs designed to minimize discomfort and manage withdrawal safely. Our team monitors clients closely and addresses any complications immediately.
Contact Woodland Recovery Center Today to Schedule a Tour of Our Drug Detox Center
At Woodland Recovery Center, our medically supervised detox program provides the support you need 24/7. From managing withdrawal symptoms to providing emotional encouragement, our team is committed to your well-being. We use evidence-based approaches, such as medication-assisted treatment (MAT), to help reduce discomfort and stabilize your body during the detox process. This allows you to focus on what really matters: your recovery journey.
In addition to physical care, we offer a range of therapies to help you begin addressing the root causes of addiction. Whether through one-on-one counseling, group therapy, or holistic practices like mindfulness, we create a foundation for lasting change. Our flexible programs are designed to meet you where you are so you can take this critical first step without disrupting your entire life.
At Woodland Recovery Center, detox is more than just the first step; it’s the start of a new chapter. Let us help you begin your recovery in a safe, supportive, and understanding environment. Call us today at 662.222.2989 to learn more about our drug detox program. Schedule a tour by completing our online contact form.