People struggling with addiction often need intensive treatment to begin the road to recovery, and that often begins with detoxification. This process of working the drugs or alcohol out of your system is an important first step, and it's critical that you find an addiction treatment center that offers the right detox program for you. Use this guide to help find the center that provides the support you need to begin your journey to recovery.
Medical Care
You should be sure that the center you will be using offers medical care during detox. If you have any underlying health problems, they may become exacerbated as the drugs leave your system. Complications may depend on the type of drugs you are addicted to. People with long-term alcohol addiction, for example, can suffer from seizures or delirium tremens (DTs). Your addiction treatment center should be provided with a detailed medical history so the staff can properly prepare for your detox program.
Inpatient Or Outpatient Options
Depending on your medical history, type of addiction and history of drug use, you may choose between inpatient or outpatient detox. Inpatient detox may be necessary if you have a history of health problems or if your doctor determines that you need to have a medicinal substitute for your drug of choice to help you finish the detoxification process. For a heroin user, a doctor might prescribe methadone to ease withdrawal symptoms and help to prevent a relapse. You may also choose inpatient care if you feel that you won't be able to prevent a relapse on your own. Outpatient options may work for people with a strong family support system at home. Talk to an addiction treatment specialist to make the right decision for you as you consider your detox options.
Support Services
The detox process doesn't just include getting the drugs out of your system. Your treatment program can start while you are withdrawing from the drugs. Choosing an addiction center that provides therapy during detox may help to prevent you from relapsing. This is important because you may feel strong urges to use while you are detoxing, and having a therapist or support group there for you can keep you focused on your recovery goals. You should also ensure that your addiction treatment program will continue after the detox process is over so you have a seamless transition into sobriety.
The road to recovery may not be easy, but starting your addiction treatment program with the right detox plan can make it a bit easier. Be sure to consult with your doctor, family and an addiction treatment specialist to create a plan that works right for you.
