When it comes to rehab, detoxing is an important step that people can’t skip. Without proper detox, many people fail to start their rehab experience. Some rehab centers won’t even admit people until they undergo detox. So, how do drug detox programs work and why are they so important?
What Is Detox?
Detox is the process of removing toxins from the body. When people think of detoxing, they usually think of drug detox. However, anyone can detox to remove toxins from the body. Some people detox regularly to remove toxins from the foods that they eat as well as environmental toxins.
In terms of drug detox, people stop taking drugs to give their bodies a chance to remove drug toxins. Unlike most food toxins, however, detoxing from drugs can cause withdrawal. In either case, the body has all the tools that it needs to remove these toxins. However, people still have to help their bodies by not taking any more of the substances that they’re detoxing from.
How Does Detox Work?
Believe it or not, the body detoxes itself naturally, which is why people can detox from certain things at home. When it comes to drug detox, however, there’s more to consider because of withdrawal symptoms.
So, how does detox work at a facility? Generally, it starts with an evaluation to determine the physical state and needs of the client. With this information, the detox center comes up with a plan of action to address those needs.
Once the detox center puts a plan in place, it helps the client stick to that plan. The detox center keeps the person comfortable throughout detox. The more comfortable that people feel, the more likely that they are to stick to their detox plans.
How Long Does Detox Take?
Everyone detoxes at different rates. The most withdrawal symptoms happen during the first 24 to 48 hours. Mild symptoms, however, can continue for weeks to months. Some people experience light withdrawal during rehab after detox.
Detox programs can help people detox more quickly as well. Ultra-rapid detox programs usually take place in a hospital intensive care setting. The goal is to help speed up the body’s natural detoxing ability.
Detoxing also depends on the type of drugs that people take and how long they’ve taken them. For example, marijuana detox happens at a different pace than heroin or alcohol detox. In either case, it’s important for people to seek professional help.
What’s the Next Step After Detox?
After detox, the next step is to move into a treatment program. Treatment programs can help individuals learn how to cope with cravings and manage triggers in a healthy way. Treatment will also provide the structure and support needed to sustain long-term recovery. This often includes therapy sessions, 12-step meetings, relapse prevention planning, life skills training, and more.
Each person’s treatment plan will be tailored to their individual needs. After completing a comprehensive treatment program, it is important to continue with follow-up care such as counseling sessions and continued involvement in support groups. These aftercare services can provide ongoing support throughout the recovery process. It is also essential for individuals to develop a strong relapse prevention plan and utilize healthy coping methods to help them stay on the path of recovery.
By taking these steps, individuals can create a strong foundation for long-term sobriety and health. With commitment and dedication, it is possible to achieve a successful recovery from addiction. Additionally, seeking support from family, friends, and professional resources like Crestview Recovery can be invaluable during this process. Recovery is an ongoing journey, and with the right tools and support, individuals can overcome substance abuse and find lasting sobriety.
Let Us Help You With Addiction After Detox
At Crestview Recovery, we can refer you to a detox center that can help you detox quickly and comfortably. Once you finish detoxing, we invite you to enroll in one of our rehab programs, including:
- Individual and group therapy
- Residential rehab
- Intensive outpatient programs
- Family therapy
- Dual diagnosis treatment
Find out what it takes to overcome addiction with us. Let us provide you with the tools that you need to avoid relapse in the future. Contact us anytime at 866.262.0531 to speak to one of our knowledgeable representatives.
Since 2016, Dr. Merle Williamson, a graduate of Oregon Health Sciences University, has been the Medical Director at Crestview Recovery, bringing a rich background in addiction medicine from his time at Hazelden Treatment Center. He oversees outpatient drug and alcohol treatments, providing medical care, setting policies, detox protocols, and quality assurance measures. Before specializing in addiction medicine, he spent 25 years in anesthesiology, serving as Chair of Hospital Pharmacy and Therapeutics Committee and Chief of Anesthesia at Kaiser Permanente. This experience gives him a unique perspective on treating prescription drug addiction.
