What to Expect in a Drug Detox Center

What to Expect When You Enter a Drug Detox Center

When someone is in need of treatment for a drug or alcohol addiction it isn’t so much the treatment that deters him or her from making the move to a rehab program, it’s the idea of enduring the unpleasant detox process.  There is really no way to sugar coat it, detox and withdrawal is no party.  However, there are myriad ways that detox professionals can intervene, providing the medications to help alleviate the discomforts and pain that accompany detox and withdrawal. 

Before seeking treatment some may wonder what to expect; what is a drug detox center anyway?  In many cases, the detox process is located within an inpatient addiction treatment facility for a smooth transition to therapy after detox is completed.  However, there are also dedicated drug detox facilities that only provide detox services.

What is a Drug Detox Center?

In order to get the body and brain back in sync so that treatment can begin, the individual must first undergo detoxification and withdrawal.  Whether this process takes place at a freestanding detox clinic or within a comprehensive inpatient rehab, addiction specialists and detox professionals will monitor detox and withdrawal symptoms.  Some drugs will require a tapering program, such as benzodiazepine dependence, while others will stop the substance all at once.

During the detox process the individual will experience discomfort.  The severity of the withdrawal symptoms is determined by several factors, including the acuity of the addiction, the person’s age and state of general health, and the type of substance of abuse.  Withdrawal can be unpredictable, which is what necessitates a trained detox staff to manage symptoms and provide appropriate medications.  Generally, detox takes about 5-7 days to complete.  A Drug detox is a monitored program that will provide medical and emotional support so you can move on to treatment.

What is an Addiction Rehab Facility?

Addiction treatment facilities vary dramatically, with many specialties and philosophies that guide the programs.  The level of care fall into one of two main categories, an outpatient program and an inpatient program.  Outpatient programs are adequate for treating newly developing substance use disorders or as a step down after completion of an inpatient program.  Inpatient programs involve the client residing at the facility for a minimum of 30 days while they receive treatment and care.  Since 2008 most insurance plans cover at least a portion of the services for addiction treatment at a rehab facility, making addiction treatment more accessible.

Treatment Following Detox and Withdrawal

Once detox has been accomplished the client will transition into active treatment for their substance use disorder.  Many inpatient programs will customize the treatment plan based on the unique features of the client’s addiction assessment, physical health evaluation, and whether there is a mood disorder co-occurring with the substance use disorder.  Inpatient rehabs are highly structured with assorted therapeutic activities scheduled throughout the days.

Therapy can include many different forms.  Addiction treatment relies on cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), which will help the client establish healthier behavioral responses to emotional triggers.  Therapy offers an opportunity to search inside one’s heart and soul to gain important insights about what may have contributed to the addictive behavior.  Group therapy is an important source of peer support and exchanging of experiences and ideas.  Other therapies, such as holistic activities like yoga, mindfulness, guided meditation, massage, acupuncture, and art therapy can round out the inpatient program.

Pax House Recovery Provides Detox Services and Addiction Treatment

Pax House Recovery is a residential and outpatient treatment program offering drug and alcohol detox, residential, and outpatient treatment programs located near Pasadena in the foothills of California.  Pax House provides a unique setting for receiving treatment for a substance use disorder, a calm, serene environment that allows the spirit to be renewed as the mind and body heal.  Following detox, highly trained and experienced clinical therapists guide clients toward new awareness and self-discovery on their path to recovery.  For more information about what is a drug detox center, please contact Pax House today at (888) 572-1724.

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