Drug and alcohol withdrawal can be extremely uncomfortable, if not dangerous without professionals helping. Withdrawal has many variables including the drug used, frequency of use, length of time used and the amount used. Generally the amount used increases the longer they use, as a tolerance builds and the desire to maintain a certain high can only be reached through increased amounts. This alone factors into the degree of withdrawal an individual will experience.

Another important factor during withdrawal, is cravings. In a more understanding way of how withdrawal works, the body and mind, whether a physical or psychological addiction, associates the drug with feeling good and as the drug begins to leave the body, the association begins to panic in a sense. The brain, in a sense has been trained that use of the drug is the fastest way to feel better. The body on the other hand, experiences the physical symptoms of withdrawal - pain, cramping, sickness, etc. and also seeks the fastest way to feel better, even though using again may be masking serious and even life threatening medical problems.

The body and the mind are powerful, and when used (or trained) in a positive manner, can change the old way of behaviors to achieve feeling better. Without the professional guidance, the mind and/or body left to its own decision making during the withdrawal process, will inevitably resort to its own resources. Cravings though are all part of withdrawal and this is probably one of the most important factors recognized during the detoxification process. The potential of "relapse" before completing the withdrawal process, is the primary reason an individual must be under the care of a physician and a trained medical staff that can address these issues before they become a problem.

The Cedars believes in taking all precautions necessary to avoid relapse during detoxification. Our trained medical staff in collaboration with our therapeutic staff, are prepared and ready to meet an individuals needs from the moment they enter the center.