The 12 Palms rehab blog publishes weekly addiction related articles directed to help and guide families and addicts on the addiction treatment and recovery.
For many addicts, the fear of detox may make them weary about seeking treatment at a rehabilitation facility. Many believe the process will be painful and unpleasant, but in reality, detox treatment is designed to be just the opposite -- as painless and smooth as possible.
So what can you expect when undergoing detox? Here are some answers to some common questions about the process. But remember, each program is designed for the needs of the individual -- and the detox experience can vary greatly from person to person.
The first step in any detox program is determining the substance or substances being used by the addict. Armed with this information, the staff will design an appropriate treatment program. It is important during this discussion to be honest about all the substances you are abusing. Omitting details can result in health complications, improper prescriptions to mitigate withdrawal symptoms, and a less comfortable and successful detox experience.
On-site clinicians are authorized to prescribe medications to help ease the symptoms of pain during the detox process. What’s prescribed, if anything, differs from patient to patient and the substances from which you are being detoxed. Over days or weeks, the amounts of all medications are reduced to help you ease into a substance-free life.
In the case of dual diagnosis treatment, patients will work with both a therapist and a psychiatrist, and for those with underlying bipolar disorder or depression, antidepressants may be prescribed in conjunction with detox medications.
Once an addict is substance-free, post-acute withdrawal symptoms (PAWS) can be expected. The length of symptoms vary from patient to patient and can last anywhere from 6 months to many years, depending on the patient’s drug of choice and the severity of the addiction. PAWS symptoms, which are more emotional than physical, may include:
There is no “correct” way to detoxify from chemicals. 12 Palms Recovery Center tailors detox regimens to the physical, psychological and emotional needs of each patient, and provides support and direction for dealing with the residual effects. Call today to begin your substance-free journey, with the help and support to give you the best chance for a new productive and healthy life.
“If someone wants to get sober, this is a wonderful place to do it...12 Palms saved my life.”
— Fred
“When an addict is finally willing to admit that they are completely powerless over their addiction and need help recovering, they are left with a choice.”
