Detox: Your First Step in Recovery

It’s undeniable that getting to an addiction recovery center can change someone’s life. However, most people only have a general overview of what the rehabilitation process actually looks like. Ideally, an addict would enter a drug rehab center, stay for a while to be treated, and walk out feeling positive and sober. But what happens throughout the actual rehabilitation process? The first and sometimes most intimidating step, is detoxification.

What’s Detoxing?

Detoxing is the process by which a patient is weaned off substances they may be abusing, while under certified medical supervision. In Florida addiction treatment, medical staff will complete a full evaluation for participants. This can include diagnosing any co-occurring mental illnesses and ordering any medications deemed necessary, such as Suboxone. Suboxone maintenance is a prescription method used to treat opioid addiction by combatting symptoms of withdrawal. A form of Medication-Assisted Treatment (MAT), studies have shown it can reduce rates of relapse, eliminate cravings, and ultimately save lives.

Experiencing Withdrawal

Due to the dependency that accompanies substance abuse, a notable part of detox involves enduring withdrawal symptoms. Withdrawal can differ depending on the type of substance abused. With alcohol and benzodiazepines, withdrawal can present especially serious risks. The effects of alcohol withdrawal commonly last 2-10 days. Alternatively, withdrawal from benzos could last anywhere from 2-8 weeks, depending on if the substance abused was short-acting (such as Xanax), or long-acting (such as Valium). Symptoms can range everywhere from restlessness and headaches to cold sweats and agitation. Meanwhile, withdrawal from opioids such as heroin and fentanyl can last between 4-20 days, and may include feelings of anxiety, tremors, vomiting, and more. Detoxification differs from substance to substance, which is why each individual’s treatment plan should too.

Drug Rehabilitation in Florida

At drug treatment centers like Safe Haven Recovery, detox services can be provided on an outpatient level. This means recoverees can participate in detoxification during the day, and then return to their rehab housing at night. Here, recovery is integrated into daily routine with ease and efficiency. This combination of detoxing and reintegrating is essential, as detoxification is only the first step. After assessing physical dependency, it is still necessary to break the cycle of addiction through various forms of therapy, enrollment in addiction recovery programs, and participating in additional treatment as needed. Safe Haven Recovery center relies on an immersive approach, with support provided throughout every step of the process. This is extremely important, even in the early stage of detoxification, as impromptu at-home detox’s have proven to be extremely dangerous. We instead urge addicts to ask for help when needed, as it will always be readily provided.