Detox is often the first step in the continuum of care for addiction treatment. It is defined as “a set of interventions aimed at managing acute intoxication and withdrawal. It denotes a clearing of toxins from the body of the patient who is acutely intoxicated and/ or dependent on substances of abuse.” There are a variety of detox methods available, with varying levels of support. Every individual is different and will have a distinct physiological response to habitually abusing drugs. Therefore, it should come as no surprise that the detox process is entirely unique for everyone. There are certain contributing factors that play a role regarding the severity of symptoms and duration an individual is likely to experience the detox process, from start to finish. Some people will require extensive support, perhaps in a designated detox facility, with twenty-four-hour care throughout the entirety of his or her detox process, and others will be able to go through detox unaccompanied in his or her own home. The specific detox method an individual selects should consider his or her specific needs, the type of substance or substances abused, and his or her health history.
This stage of treatment can be an extremely vulnerable time and for individuals that attend an inpatient detox program, it is helpful to have a basic understanding of what to expect. While the exact process may vary from one person to another, in most cases, a person attending a detox program can expect:
- An intake evaluation: Upon entering detox an individual will be screened for physical and mental health issues, as well as be asked to provide a comprehensive review of his or her drug, medical, and psychiatric history. This helps to build an accurate picture of the patient’s nuanced and distinct needs.
- Personalized plan: The information gathered during the intake evaluation will be used by the patient’s clinical care team to develop a tailored detox plan.
- Stabilization: Withdrawal from drug or alcohol addiction can cause varying degrees of physical and psychological symptoms, called withdrawal symptoms. Inpatient detox often includes medically assisted detox, where medications are utilized in conjunction with therapeutic modalities to assist in the detox process and ensure the patient’s safety. Patients will have access to 24-hour medical care, and physicians are available at any time to administer medication to help offset withdrawal symptoms.
- Preparing entry to treatment: While the detox process is essential to one’s treatment, solely removing the toxins from one’s body does not conclude the recovery process from substance abuse and/ or addiction, and subsequent treatment is required. An inpatient detox program will help a patient prepare for and arrange the next phase of recovery.
For Information and Support
If you are concerned for yourself or a loved one regarding substance abuse and/ or addiction, we recommend reaching out for help as soon as possible. If left untreated, substance abuse can result in long lasting and potentially life-threatening consequences. Keep in mind: you are not alone! There is an entire network of professionals that are available to help and support you and your loved one throughout the recovery process. The earlier you seek support, the sooner your loved one can return to a happy, healthy, and fulfilling life.
Please do not hesitate to reach out with any questions regarding our specific program at Haven House Addiction Treatment and/ or general substance abuse and/ or addiction treatment related information. Our highly trained staff is readily available to discuss how we might best be able to help you and your loved one. We can be reached by phone at 424-258-6792. You are also welcomed to contact anytime us via email at admissions@hhtxc.com.
