"STOP! I wanna get off!"
Di from CADS on planning for a successful withdrawal
Wednesday, 21 June 2006.
Originally from express article 21 June 2006
By Di from Auckland Community Alcohol and Drug Services (CADS)
(Information is from the CADS publication ‘A Guide to Withdrawing in the Community').
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| Di from CADS |
Making the Decision
One of the most important factors in dealing with withdrawal is how much you know about what’s going on – the more you know about what’s happening, what to expect and what to do the better you’ll cope with the whole process. You can contact us (see below) for more of this information.
Although it’s always easy to intend to ‘stop using tomorrow’, there are some realistic factors to consider about when is the best time. You may have commitments, (such as childcare, work) or major problems on the horizon (financial, legal, etc.) which, realistically, are going to make the withdrawal process really difficult. And, although some people manage it, trying to come off can be harder when there are still people around you who are using.
Planning Your Withdrawal
Finding the right time to start coming off is important. You may need to co-ordinate it with support people – for example, finding out when it’s okay to stay with a friend or family member.
- If you’re planning to go to a residential treatment centre or support house after your detox/withdrawal, it’s a good idea to have organised an assessment and admission date before you start.
- Other things you might need to plan: organising time off work, setting boundaries (e.g. telling friends who are still using not to drop around with alcohol or other drugs), tying up loose ends (e.g. money issues), organising sickness benefit, co-ordinating childcare etc.
- Make sure you have enough time to stock up on necessary items (such as food, videos, medication) in advance. Also, you may need to book an appointment with your GP or other people, such as a medical herbalist, acupuncturist etc.
- It’s also important to have the right people who will be supportive and are able to spend some time with you and help you get through the discomfort. You may need to explain to this person/people what’s going on, how you might feel, and what you’re going to need from them. They need to be aware of these things, otherwise this could be a difficult process for them and they might not be as helpful as you hope or need. For some people thinking of anyone who could provide support could be hard. Maybe there are people you’ve lost contact with, people who do care, and they may be willing to provide the support you need if you ask them.
I recommend that you talk to us here at Auckland CADS (or contact the Alcohol and Drug helpline to find out about your local service) as we will help you explore your options more fully and help you develop clear strategies to cope with cravings and to reduce the chances of relapsing. If you do relapse, don't panic – give it another go when you're ready.
(NB. Withdrawing from alcohol, Tranquilisers and Barbs can be dangerous so don't attempt this without medical assistance.)
If you have concerns about your own or someone else's alcohol or other
drug use, or if you'd like more information, contact CADS on 845 1818 or www.cads.org.nz or if you live outside Auckland contact Alcohol and Drug
Helpline 0800 787 797.
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