What are the Physical and Emotional Changes During Drug and Alcohol Detox?

September 29, 2024

Detoxing from drugs and alcohol can be one of the most challenging experiences you’ll ever face.

The physical and emotional toll can feel overwhelming, but understanding what your body and mind are going through can help you prepare for this important journey. If you’re reading this, you’re likely considering detox for yourself or a loved one.

What Happens During Detox?

Drug and alcohol detox is the body’s natural process of eliminating harmful substances from your system. When you stop consuming these substances, your body goes through withdrawal, trying to adjust to functioning without the drugs or alcohol it has become dependent on. During this time, your body and mind will undergo significant changes—some of which can be uncomfortable, but all of them are temporary.

Physical Changes During Detox

When you begin detoxing, your body cleanses itself from the accumulated toxins over time.

1. Flu-Like Symptoms

You may feel like you’re coming down with the flu—achy muscles, sweating, chills, and headaches are common during the early stages of detox. These symptoms can be tough, especially when they hit unexpectedly, but they are your body’s way of expelling the toxins.

2. Nausea and Vomiting

It’s not uncommon to experience nausea and vomiting as your body tries to adjust. Your digestive system, which can have been affected by alcohol or drugs, is now reacting to their absence. While unpleasant, staying hydrated and eating light, nutritious meals can help you manage this phase.

3. Changes in Sleep Patterns

Detox can throw your sleep schedule completely off balance. You find it hard to fall asleep or stay asleep. Insomnia can be frustrating, especially when your body is already under stress. On the flip side, some people experience excessive tiredness as their body works overtime to heal.

4. Shaking and Sweating

You may also experience shaking and profuse sweating, especially in your hands. This is a typical response as your body works hard to flush toxins. Although these symptoms can be alarming, they are part of the process and will pass.

5. Cravings

One of the hardest physical challenges during detox is the craving for the substance you’re trying to quit. Cravings can come in waves, making it difficult to stay on track. Your brain has been conditioned to seek out drugs or alcohol for relief or pleasure, and it will push you to give in.

Emotional Changes During Detox

Detox can take a serious toll on your emotional state as well. Here’s what you could experience emotionally:

1. Mood Swings

You may feel like you’re riding an emotional rollercoaster during detox. One minute, you’re irritable; the next, you’re weepy; you feel a rush of anger. It is because drugs and alcohol affect the chemicals in your brain that regulate your mood, and as your body adjusts, your emotions can swing wildly.

2. Anxiety

Anxiety is another common emotional challenge during detox. You feel restless, nervous, or even panicked without the substances you’ve relied on.

3. Depression

Depression can set in during detox as your body and mind grieve the loss of what has been a crutch. Without the numbing effect of substances, feelings you’ve suppressed for a long time can come back.

4. Feelings of Hopelessness

At times, you might feel like giving up. But you should know that these feelings of hopelessness are common and temporary. They don’t reflect the reality of your situation or the bright future that awaits you on the other side of detox.

5. Irritability and Frustration

Detox can make you feel short-tempered and easily frustrated. The smallest inconveniences can feel monumental. This is largely due to the stress your body is under and the mental toll of withdrawal. Practice self-compassion and patience with yourself during this time.

How to Cope With the Changes?

Now that you understand the physical and emotional changes that come with detox, let’s talk about how to cope with them:

Keeping your body hydrated is essential.
Try to eat light, nutritious meals that give your body the energy it needs to heal.
Your body is working hard to recover, so rest when you can.
Reach out to loved ones, support groups, or a therapist.
When the cravings hit or the emotions feel unbearable, remind yourself why you started this journey.

Final Thoughts

Detox is just the first step on the road to recovery. While the physical and emotional changes during this time can feel intense, they are also temporary. Take it one day at a time, and know you are moving toward a healthier, happier version of yourself.