Drug detox, also sometimes known as “medically managed withdrawal,” is the process of getting a substance out of the body. It involves an intervention with a variety of different therapies depending on the detox center. Detox is not rehab; although it is an essential part of treatment, it is often not enough on its own to sustain sobriety. Instead, it is the first step in the process; after the body has detoxed the substances and toxins from the body, it is time for continued care.

The Goal of Detox

A medical detox center’s goal is to try and medically stabilize clients to minimize the severity of withdrawal symptoms and harmful side effects. There are numerous withdrawal symptoms associated with detox, such as intense mood swings, anxiety, depression, irritability, shaking, nausea, and other flu-like symptoms.

Detox may also cause various psychological symptoms, such as depression and anxiety. In severe cases, detox can lead to psychotic symptoms. The symptoms a person experiences will depend on the substance they were using, how much they used, how often they used, the method of use, pre-existing health conditions, and more.

Why Is Detox Essential?

People may try to go through detox on their own; however, detox without the help of medical professionals can be incredibly dangerous. Withdrawal symptoms associated with certain substances, such as alcohol and benzodiazepines, can be life-threatening without medical intervention. Detoxing independently can also increase the risk of relapse; it is much easier to succumb to using substances to ease symptoms without other people there to help with accountability.

The body undergoes an immense amount of stress after a long period of using substances, and it needs to get rid of everything built up in the body and take a much-needed break. Without this step, the root of the addiction cannot be treated. Not only does detox rid the harmful substances from the body, but it also helps rid excess waste, boost your immunity, break bad habits, and improve mental strength. Once you have completed detox, a sense of confidence is built, relinquishing self-doubt and fears that hold you back.

What to Expect From Detox

Typically withdrawal will begin anywhere from 24 to 48 hours after the last substance was ingested. This is when the physical and mental symptoms will start to show. When someone is addicted to something, the body and mind rely on it to feel normal. Unfortunately, the brain and body don’t know how to function properly without substances.

As you experience withdrawal symptoms, medical professionals in a detox facility are there to help you get through them as comfortably as possible. You will be prescribed medications that help with nausea, vomiting, sleep, and more. If any complications or life-threatening symptoms arise, professionals are present to ensure that you are safe.

How to Find a Detox Facility

There are many ways to start looking for detox centers, and resources are abundant. If you are not sure where to begin with finding a detox facility, consulting with your therapist or doctor can be a good place to start, as they should be able to guide you in the right direction. The Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) also provides plenty of resources to help you with your first steps toward treatment. Lastly, calling your insurance provider can help you find a detox facility that is covered by insurance near you.

Finding the Right Detox Facility

There are various things you should consider when searching for a detox facility, including:

• Where is the detox located?
• Is the facility home-like or hospital-like?
• What is the staff-to-client ratio?
• Is staff in the facility 24/7?
• How much will a detox stay cost?
• Will the facility help you create the best-individualized aftercare plan?

It is also crucial to seek a detox center that is in connection with the best continuing care facilities. With detox being the first step in treatment, a facility you go to after detox can shape the rest of your recovery journey.

What to Look For in Treatment

Treatment facilities that treat mental health disorders and get to the root cause of substance abuse are ideal because they help you find out what triggered self-medication in the first place. When you treat the root of the addiction, you are less likely to turn back to drugs or alcohol to cope in the future. A holistic approach is also fundamental because instead of simply treating the physical aspects of addiction, a holistic approach considers your entire person.

What Happens After Detox?

After detox, many people choose to attend an inpatient or outpatient treatment facility to continue their care. Outpatient treatment centers such as 449 Recovery can help you treat any mental health disorders you are struggling with and the resulting maladaptive coping skills. Using evidence-based treatments, you will work on slowly being integrated back into the community with improved functioning.

Detoxification, or detox, is the first step in treatment and recovery, making it crucial to educate yourself on the process and find the right facility for you and your needs. You want to know why you will need to detox, what will happen, what to expect, and how to find the right resources. A good detox facility will help you comfortably manage your withdrawal symptoms, have 24/7 staff, and help you create an aftercare plan that helps suit your needs. If you have completed detox and are ready for your next phase of treatment, 449 Recovery is here for you. Our outpatient treatment facility can help you get to the root of your addiction, overcome your mental health battles, and find new ways to cope. For more information on the detox process or to learn more about 449 Recovery, call us today at (949) 435-7449.