Although both detox and drug rehab are integral components of the overall recovery process from substance abuse and/ or addiction, they are two distinct stages. To gain an understanding of the differences between a detox program and a substance abuse and/ or addiction treatment program it is important to take a step back. Addiction, also known as substance use disorder (SUD), is listed in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, Fifth Edition (DSM-5) as a chronic, relapsing brain disorder. It is characterized by compulsively engaging in rewarding stimuli (e.g., abusing drugs and/ or alcohol) without regard for consequence. The path of recovery from substance abuse and/ or addiction is not necessarily linear, nor will it be the same for every person. The general treatment process for substance abuse and/ or addiction is often comprised of the following three stages in sequential order: detox, a substance abuse and/ or addiction treatment program (rehab), and aftercare.
Detox Basics
The first step to treating substance abuse and/ or addiction is to complete detox, which is the process of letting one’s body rid itself of foreign substances. Any individual that has habitually abused drugs and/ or alcohol will likely experience withdrawal symptoms when the substance is absent from his or her body. Withdrawal symptoms generally begin to present during one’s detox phase and some can last long after its completion. There are a variety of detox methods individuals may undergo, each with varying levels of support. 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. 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. The development of substance use disorder does not occur immediately, nor will recovering from addiction be achieved instantaneously.
Drug Rehab and Aftercare
After an individual has successfully completed the detox process attending a formal substance abuse and/ or addiction treatment program is recommended. According to the National Institute on Drug Abuse, there are over fourteen thousand, five hundred specialized treatment facilities for drug addiction in America. The most common types available include residential rehab programs, outpatient rehab programs, and partial hospitalization programs (PHPs). High-quality rehab programs provide their participants with tailored treatment plans. Depending on one’s needs, these treatment plans may consist of a combination of a wide variety of distinct therapeutic modalities, such as cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), dialectical behavior therapy (DBT), psychodynamic psychotherapy, interpersonal therapy (IPT), mindfulness-based therapy, expressive arts therapies, etc. Upon the completion of a substance abuse and/ or addiction treatment program an individual will leave with a customized aftercare plan. An aftercare plan is a co-creation between the individual and his or her clinical treatment team that is developed during rehab. This serves as a personalized resource that provides individuals with both detailed and broad guidance, often including suggestions for how to navigate challenges post-treatment, strategies for relapse prevention, and more to help with continued sober success.
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 welcome to contact anytime us via email at admissions@hhtxc.com.
