Detoxification, or detox, is the process of ridding the body of any and all addictive substances, such as alcohol, heroin, meth, prescription drugs, etc. Not everyone who is addicted to drugs or alcohol requires detox because not everyone with a substance use disorder experiences chemical dependency.
Dependence occurs when a person is no longer able to go without drugs and/or alcohol because their body now needs it to function. The classic sign of dependence is experiencing withdrawal symptoms when use stops. Depending on the type of substance that a person is abusing, the symptoms that he or she will develop upon ending their substance abuse can vary from mildly uncomfortable to deadly. Because of this sliding scale, it is always recommended that someone who is dependent on drugs or alcohol obtains professional services either through a drug detox program or an alcohol detox program.
How Does Detox Work?
Detox Intake
Upon entering our detox facility in the United States, you will be met with kindness, support, and compassion. Each member of our staff is ready to help you achieve your goal of sobriety. Admissions coordinators and other staff members will begin the intake process by conducting a number of different steps, such as completing a urinalysis, health screen, and alcohol breath test. You can expect to participate in a brief interview that will help inform our team of professionals about your current situation.
- What types of substances have you been abusing?
- How many drugs/alcohol have you been consuming?
- How frequently have you been abusing drugs/alcohol?
- Do you have any current health issues or allergies?
- Have you attempted detox before? If so, how many times and what was the outcome?
- Do you have a history of seizures or addiction to benzodiazepines/barbiturates?
- Are you pregnant? (For female patients only.)
During detox intake, we will inform you of how drug detox and alcohol detox at A Forever Recovery works, what you can expect, and what we actions we will be taking to ensure your comfort.
We know that it has taken a great deal of courage to reach out and ask for help. As a result, we take your care very seriously. We take proactive measures to ensure your safety, comfort, and overall well-being during this time.
What to Expect During Detox
Once you have completed the intake portion of detox, you can begin the physical process of clearing your system of addictive substances. Our physicians monitor your vitals regularly to ensure stability during this time. Many of the withdrawal symptoms that you may experience can be easily managed with medications. Depending on which substance you are detoxing from, we will prescribe medications to help ease your symptoms and dull your cravings.
- Insomnia
- Anxiety
- High blood pressure
- Diarrhea
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Abdominal pain and cramping
- Muscle tension
- Headaches
- A general sense of feeling “unwell”
The length of time it takes to complete drug detox or alcohol detox is based on a number of different factors. This includes your medical history, how heavily you were abusing drugs/alcohol, and what type of substance you were abusing. Generally, most people spend 5-14 days in detox, however, there is variance depending on each patient’s circumstances.
We offer medications approved by the FDA to help taper people who are addicted to opioids off of these substances. These medications can aid in a gradual taper as opposed to a sudden onset of withdrawal symptoms. All patients detoxing from opioids are monitored and administered their medication by a trained health professional.
Detox at A Forever Recovery
At A Forever Recovery, located in the United States, we know how challenging it is to detox without help or support. We are dedicated to each and every patient’s safety and comfort. As a result, we provide the appropriate medications to help manage withdrawal symptoms. In addition, our caring staff will offer support and nutritious meals to promote optimal health during detox. At A Forever Recovery, we view each patient with an individual lens. We strive to provide only the utmost quality of care and compassion. Our goal is to make sure every patient has the support and resources needed to break free of their dependence.
Contact A Forever Recovery right now and speak with a caring, informed counselor. They will help you gain a strong understanding of what to expect when you detox here. He or she will also talk to you about how we develop a customized detox plan based on your needs. Then, we can determine what steps we take to help you seamlessly transition into other levels of treatment so you can continue your journey towards recovery.