Detoxification, or detox, is a critical part of recovering from addiction. This is an all-important first step, but it isn’t the entire process. Answer the question, “What is detox?”, and learn more about the steps that follow on the road to recovery.
What is Detox?
At the most basic level, detox is when individuals stop taking the substance they’re addicted to. Often, that means ceasing consumption of drugs, alcohol or prescription medication.
Most people also want to know, “What is detox like?” While the process can be uncomfortable, a medically managed detox center can help mitigate the discomfort. During this process, the body can begin to break free from its chemical and physical dependence on certain substances. Technically, individuals can detoxify on their own. However, it’s far safer and more effective to complete a formal detox program geared towards lasting sobriety.
Why is Detox So Important?
Detox is so important because it is the basic building block toward recovery. Plus, a medical, professional detox ensures the health and safety of patients. Without detox, the entire recovery process can’t begin in earnest.
Detox is incredibly beneficial because it makes the recovery process formal. Instead of just casually trying to cut back, there’s a definite end to substance use once and for all. In a rehab facility, drugs, and alcohol aren’t allowed. Patients have no choice but to stay sober.
Detox is also necessary because it puts patients under the right medical care. In this program, patients have access to 24/7 medical supervision. This is key to managing some of the worst withdrawal symptoms.
Finally, detox means that patients are free from the influence of drugs and alcohol. Once the process is over, they can move forward and logically, rationally and clearly begin their journey to health and happiness.
What Comes After Detox?
After detox, addiction programs can address the deeper reasons for dependence on drugs and alcohol. Through a variety of treatment methods, patients can explore the factors behind addiction and what obstacles could lie ahead. Programs can be inpatient, outpatient or a mixture of the two.
During an addiction program, patients continue to have excellent medical care. However, therapy is also a big part of the equation. Some of the therapies might include:
- Group therapy
- Family therapy
- 12-step recovery programs
- Holistic therapy
- Fitness therapy
- Individual behavioral therapy
What Should Patients Look For in a Rehab Program?
There are countless rehab and addiction treatment programs available. Narrowing down the many options and selecting just one can feel overwhelming. To start, look for a program that takes a comprehensive view of recovery. More treatment methods and therapies mean a greater chance that patients will find what works for them.
Also, look for a program where extended care is an option. Gaining valuable life skills, creating coping mechanisms and learning to prevent relapse are all critical. Sober living, transitional living or a continuing care plan can fit the bill.
At Crestview Recovery, we want to help you get free of your addiction. To that end, we offer a variety of addiction treatment programs, including,”
After detox, you should continue with your recovery. Quality addiction rehab programs at Crestview Recovery in Portland, Oregon, might be the perfect option. Call 866.262.0531 to embrace sobriety and start living the life you truly want.
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.
