The Detox Phase

Seizures. Nightmares. Irritation. Shits. Jitters. Insomnia. Anxiety. Fear. Puke. Sweats; the ingredients to a detox. I am blessed with the doctor I have, he has no problem prescribing me Librium to make my detoxes easier yet I have heard of some doctors who will only prescribe it a certain amount of times a year. Detox is rough and it’s hard to see the light at the end of the tunnel. Your environment too can be unhelpful. I have often had to detox in homeless accommodation surrounded by people who are still in the midst of addiction. Some people can detox themselves, I’ve done it myself rather than paying my doctor yet another visit. Going from sixteen, to eight, to four, to two cans can work but I’d always recommend visiting your GP. I am by far a medical professional, I probably shouldn’t be encouraging self-detox. One thing I have come to realise during detox is the importance of rest. It can help to have friends and family know that you’re trying to detox too. I have often had to get my Mum to drop me off a few ‘last cans’ to get me to a point of abstinence. What follows detox could be the rest of your life. Living Happy. So well done on making the decision to detox. It’s by far easy. As time goes by and the longer you’re sober you’ll wonder why you would put yourself through such consequences. That’s why many describe addiction as baffling. If you’re fortunate enough to have some money left over from your last binge consider ordering in. Do as little as possible until you feel strong and well again.

Following detox comes commitment. Commitment not to subdue to your addiction. The first few weeks can go two ways. You’ll either struggle daily or feel a sense of freedom. Personally, after detox I go through a honeymoon phase. I feel brilliant, untouchable yet these characteristics have always brought me back to my addictions. I get arrogant. This time I’m reminding myself daily ‘my addictions are only an arms length away.