Detox is part of the treatment process for beating addiction. It’s even one of the more challenging hurdles one can clear. The reason for this is that they’ll be dealing with withdrawal symptoms (albeit serious ones)
This guide will go over everything you need to know about detox. We’ll discuss the meaning, what it entails, and what to look for in a facility that does it. If you are looking for one in particular that handles detox, this one might be worth checking out.
Let’s begin this comprehensive guide to detox so you can understand the entire process.
What is detox?
Detox is a process where harmful substances are removed from your body. These toxins will build up in your system each time you abuse substances. Your body will get to a point where it’s used to having the substances in your system.
When the substances are no longer present, a person will experience withdrawal symptoms. This will be due to the fact that the body is adjusting to itself in the absence of the drug.
What are the features of detox?
Medical supervision
Detox will require medical supervision like alcohol detoxing. The reason for this is that there are withdrawal symptoms that can get serious. Even to the point where it can lead to serious, if not, fatal consequences.
That’s why it is important to have medical professionals ready to help around the clock. You’ll feel safer in such a setting compared to attempting to detox at home – which is one of the unsafest steps you can take in your role of beating addiction.
Medications
This will also be an important part of detox. You will need to take certain medications in order to manage any withdrawal symptoms you may have. This will help reduce any cravings, prevent seizures, and reduce any discomfort from certain withdrawal symptoms such as those from opioid drugs.
It is important that the medication is taken when directed by medical professionals. If you believe you are dealing with the adverse effects of the medications provided, you will need to bring it to the attention of the medical professionals treating you. This way, they can make changes when and where needed.
Counseling
While undergoing detox, this will allow you the opportunity to begin counseling. This includes meeting with a substance abuse counselor. When meeting with them, you will be able to find out what may have caused the addiction.
At the same time, you will learn different coping skills to keep cravings and relapses out of the way. Counseling can also help uncover if there are any mental health issues. If one is diagnosed, a mental health counselor will meet with you. If you are dealing with both mental disorders and addiction, it’s important to meet with two separate counselors.
The reason for this is that it’s a more organized approach. Plus, it will give you an opportunity to tackle both issues effectively at the same time. Do not meet with a counselor who claims to do it all.
Support
Getting the support you need from family, friends, and your peers is important. It is critical during your detox period. This will help you become more motivated to stay the course.
There are detox facilities that offer support groups for those dealing with a specific addiction. You will meet with people who are dealing with addiction and looking for someone who can listen to them. They will also be part of your support system as well during your recovery process.
Aftercare
When it comes to aftercare, it’s important to get the services required to keep your journey towards recovery going. Detox is only the first step in addiction treatment. After this, you will need ongoing therapy and support.
Detox facilities will provide you with a plan that you can use for aftercare purposes. This includes referrals to community resources and addiction specialists.
What to look for in a detox facility?
When looking for a detox facility, it’s important to look for the following
Accreditation
A facility with the appropriate accreditation and licensing is a must. You want to detox at a facility that will provide you with the highest quality of care and safety.
Qualified staff
A qualified, experienced staff will treat patients like you day in and day out. They know what your treatment plan entails. They will help you if and when you need them most.
What type of medication is provided?
Depending on the addiction you’re beating, there is specific medication provided. Including medications that are designed for treating withdrawal symptoms of certain drugs.
Counseling
A detox facility will likely offer counseling services. It is important that you include this as part of your treatment. This is to ensure what the origins of your addiction may be.
It is also important to consider whether or not you may have a mental illness. While there are those addicted to drugs that have no history of mental illness, most of them will have one. In this case, it is important to meet with two separate counselors: one to focus on your addiction and the other regarding your mental disorder.
It’s important to treat both addiction and mental disorders at the same time. One condition should not be unattended in favor of the other.
Support
Getting the support you need is necessary. You want to make sure the detox facility you’re looking at has solid support services for all of your treatment needs.
Final Thoughts
Detox is a stage in the treatment process that everyone dealing with addiction goes through. It is important that you go through it in order to continue on with the rest of your treatment. While it is challenging, it is important to know that this will pass.
This is a painful stage where you are making changes in your life for the better. Please get the help you need as soon as possible. Continuing your addiction can and will lead to fatal consequences.