Drug and Alcohol Detox

Once you’ve agreed to treatment, the unknown of what’s going to happen next can feel overwhelming. To help you have a better idea of what to expect, we’ll dive into the first step of addiction treatment that helps set you up for a successful recovery, medical detox. Medical detox, or medication-assisted treatment (MAT), is a combination of mental health support and the administration of FDA-approved medication to address withdrawal symptoms.

Modern Detox Makes Starting Safer and More Comfortable

The withdrawal symptoms experienced during detox will vary in severity and frequency based on several factors, including:

  • Substance being abused
  • Quantity consumed and how often
  • How long the abuse has been happening
  • Personal health and genetic makeup
  • Co-occurring mental illness such as PTSD or anxiety disorders

Due to the dynamic nature of detox, it takes a dedicated and experienced team to guide you through in the safest and most comfortable way possible. Physical symptoms such as aches, tremors, or digestive issues can be addressed with medication.

Psychological symptoms such as anxiety and paranoia are handled by a licensed mental health expert who, along with administered medication, will be available at all times. The process can take 1-2 weeks, but typically ends in around 10 days before you transition to the next step.

What’s the Next Phase of Treatment?

While medical detox is ideal for safely navigating withdrawals, the reason today’s detox is more effective is that it focuses on relapse prevention during what was previously one of the hardest parts of recovery. Now that you’ve safely achieved sobriety, you can focus solely on healing and using every ounce of support around you whenever you need it. You’ll either transition into inpatient or outpatient rehab, where you live on-campus or visit for appointments during treatment respectively.

You’ll work closely with counselors, mentors, psychologists, and coaches that specialize in helping you in various parts of your journey. If you’re looking to start or change your career path after treatment, you can spend time with job coaches learning interpersonal skills and building a resume. Spiritual counselors and places of worship are also commonly found at treatment facilities for those seeking devotion.

Recovery is a truly unique journey for everyone, and having the proper support is crucial in the early stages of treatment. You’ll likely feel emotionally vulnerable as you work through the various driving forces behind your addictive behavior. From previous traumas to current stressors in your daily life, you’d be surprised at how easily something can trigger substance use when you’re addicted.

Start Your Treatment Today at ARC

Our team at America’s Rehab Campus is made up of world-class clinicians, compassionate care staff, and mentors who have intimate experience with addiction and recovery. If you or someone you know is struggling with addiction, take a moment and contact an ARC team member to discuss your situation and find the best option for your recovery.