Detoxification, commonly referred to as "detox," is the process of removing harmful substances, such as drugs or alcohol, from the body. It is typically the first step in addiction treatment and recovery. Detox treatment is designed to manage and alleviate the physical and psychological symptoms of withdrawal that occur when a person stops using addictive substances.
When an individual has been using drugs or alcohol consistently over a period of time, their body becomes accustomed to the presence of these substances. Suddenly stopping or significantly reducing their use can lead to a range of withdrawal symptoms as the body adjusts to the absence of the substance. Withdrawal symptoms can vary widely depending on the specific substance used, the duration of use, and the individual's overall health.