Setting up your home for self-detox: What you should know

When you’re suffering from addiction, one of the biggest challenges to get over is the denial that you have running through your brain. One of the next biggest challenges is getting help.

So many people feel like they can take on giving up by themselves, but it is much harder than you think. That’s why there are so many treatment centres up and down the country, offering professional help and a platform and programme that can aid you for the rest of your life.

That said, that costs money, which is why many people that are less financially stable are turning to detoxing at home. However, with that comes a number of risks, some of which can be life threatening.

Firstly, you’re much more likely to succumb to cravings at home, while withdrawal symptoms for any kind of addiction can be menacing and cause serious health problems that will require medical treatment - if you’re home alone, you’re less likely to be able to raise the alarm and get such treatment.

So, how can you detox at home in a safe way? Here are a few pointers…

Remove any substances from your home 

The first step is to remove any of the addictive substances from your home. If you don't, that will be the first port of call when you start suffering from cravings from withdrawal. Before you start the withdrawal process, go through all your cupboards and places where you kept a stash and place them in the bin. It will even be worth taking the rubbish bags to a place far away so you don’t feel the temptation to root through your bins in a moment of desperation.

Develop a support network

Additionally, in the preparation stages, ensuring you have a strong support network is a must. There are a number of steps you can take to develop this and doing so in time for your withdrawal can be crucial in helping you get through it.

There are a number of reasons why a support network can be crucial. They can keep you company during the particularly difficult moments, they can keep you entertained and spend time enjoying different movies and films, while they are also there to check in on your health and wellbeing throughout.

The latter is so important. As we’ve mentioned, there are dangers with self detoxing, so having someone to check in on you and make sure you’re not suffering serious withdrawal symptoms. If you are, your support network can seek medical help for you. 

Keep your schedule clear 

There’s no timescale that it takes for you to withdraw and start recovery. It’s different for each person. It’s important to clear your schedule and ensure you have the time and space to commit fully to your recovery. That means taking time off work, especially, which can often lead to additional stress that won’t help in recovery.