Are you facing detox alone and finding it challenging? Deciding to detox is a huge step, and when you take it on without professional support, it has added risks, not just physically, but emotionally too.
When some people think about detox, they think about removing substances, but it’s much more than that. It’s equally important to focus on beginning recovery safely and setting foundations for long-term healing.
At The Bardo, our medically-supported detox programs provide professional care, comfort and everything an individual needs to take on this process safely and effectively.
What happens during detox?
If you’re wondering what happens when you detox, this is a simple breakdown of how it works.
Detox is the process of clearing substances from your system and allowing your body and brain to rebalance. During this time, individuals can experience a range of withdrawal symptoms such as anxiety, fatigue, insomnia, nausea or mood changes. These reactions are the body’s natural response as it adjusts to functioning without the substance.
However, the truth is, no two detox experiences are the same. The intensity and duration of symptoms can depend on a range of factors like the substance used, how long it’s been used for, and a person’s overall health.
Detoxing is more than just a physical experience, it affects individuals emotionally and psychologically, too. It’s important to manage the mental and emotional challenges alongside the physical symptoms of withdrawal to set the foundation for long-term recovery.
Let’s talk about the risks of detoxing alone
There are a few potential dangers of self-detoxing, or going “cold turkey,” including dehydration, seizures, mood instability and relapse. These symptoms can be difficult to manage alone, leaving you feeling overwhelmed and vulnerable. Without medical supervision, withdrawal can quickly become unsafe.
Having the right support will ensure that any symptoms you experience are monitored, and you’re never left to face the hardest moments on your own. Having The Bardo team on hand at our detox retreat can help you deal with emotional distress such as anxiety, shame or hopelessness, so you can continue to recover.
Safe, supported detox is about being prepared for the physical, emotional and psychological symptoms, protecting your health and giving you the best chance at long-term change.
Why medically-supported detox is safer
Professional support
You’ll be monitored by trained clinicians and health professionals around the clock, ensuring you have support every step of the way. Early intervention helps manage symptoms before they become severe, keeping you safe and comfortable throughout the detox process.
Personalised treatment
Detox is a deeply personal experience that demands you face a range of physical and emotional challenges. Medically-supported detox ensures you have access to the right medications to ease your discomfort and reduce cravings. You’ll receive a personalised care plan that takes into consideration your mental health, history and physical well-being.
Emotional support
One of the major things you miss out on by detoxing alone is the emotional support. Counsellors and psychologists help individuals manage the fear, shame and anxiety that can surface during withdrawal, and help you stay on track as the process progresses.
The foundation for recovery
Starting with a supervised detox lays the foundation for the rest of your recovery – therapy, education and lifestyle changes. These first steps help individuals safely transition from healing physically to concentrating on the emotional aspects of fighting addiction.
A greater chance at recovery
Medically-supported detox increases the likelihood of completing the process safely to move into long-term recovery. With professional care at The Bardo, individuals can access everything they need for lasting change. With lower relapse rates, improved mental health, and better engagement in therapy, a supportive, medically guided environment brings greater safety and peace of mind.
The Bardo and detox
Choose The Bardo for holistic care that supports detox with medical supervision, emotional support and a calm, private environment. We welcome only three guests at a time, ensuring personalised care.
Once you decide to begin detox, your recovery can start right away. Within 24 hours, The Bardo team will complete a phone intake assessment and create a plan tailored to your needs. You’ll then meet with our Nurse Practitioner, who will assess your readiness, prescribe any required medications, and arrange transport to bring you safely to The Bardo.
Detox at The Bardo usually lasts at least seven days. Each day includes medical care and holistic therapies such as counselling, yoga, massage, art therapy and mindfulness. Our healthy, chef-prepared meals support your recovery, while light exercise and recreational activities help rebuild strength and confidence.
After detox, we encourage individuals to continue their journey through our residential rehabilitation and aftercare programs, which offer structured support and follow-up counselling to help maintain long-term recovery.
Our team is experienced in guiding people through the complexities of detox at our Gold Coast detox retreat, a safe, supportive environment to begin healing. If you or someone you love is ready to take the first step, contact us online or call (07) 5559 3222.
