What is Detox?

Detoxification, commonly referred to as detox, is the process of removing toxic substances, such as drugs or alcohol, from the body.[1] It’s often the initial phase of treatment for those struggling with substance use disorders.

The primary goal of detox is to manage the physical and psychological symptoms of withdrawal that occur when a person stops using substances.[2] These withdrawal symptoms can range from mild discomfort to severe complications, depending on factors such as the type of substance used, the duration of use, and your overall health.

During detox, medical professionals may use medications and supportive therapies to help alleviate withdrawal symptoms and ensure your overall safety and well-being. Detox is an essential first step in the recovery process, as it prepares you for further treatment and therapy to address the underlying causes of addiction. While detoxification helps to rid the body of harmful substances, it is just the beginning of the journey towards long-term sobriety.

Why Does Detox Work?

Under the guidance of trained healthcare professionals, people undergoing detox receive close monitoring of their vital signs and symptoms. This oversight ensures their safety and well-being during what can be a challenging and sometimes unpredictable phase of withdrawal. By having medical professionals on hand, detox programs can promptly address any complications that may arise, helping to mitigate risks and ensure a smoother transition to sobriety.

Medication-assisted treatment (MAT) can be another key component that contributes to the effectiveness of detox programs.[3] MAT involves the use of medications to alleviate withdrawal symptoms and cravings associated with substance withdrawal. By managing these symptoms, medications not only help individuals feel more comfortable physically but also reduce the psychological distress often experienced during detox.

Detox also serves as a critical bridge to further treatment and rehabilitation. While detox addresses the physical aspects of addiction by eliminating harmful substances from the body, it’s also just the beginning of the recovery process. Following detox, you can transition seamlessly into ongoing treatment programs, such as inpatient rehab, therapy, and support groups, as part of the comprehensive recovery process at our addiction treatment center. These programs delve deeper into the underlying causes of addiction and provide you with the tools and skills necessary for long-term sobriety.

The Efficacy of Medical Detox for Substance Use Disorder

Medical detoxification for substance use disorder has demonstrated efficacy in helping individuals safely withdraw from drugs and alcohol while minimizing the risk of complications and improving treatment outcomes:

• Improved completion rates: Research indicates that individuals undergoing medical detox are more likely to complete the detoxification process compared to those who attempt detox without medical supervision.[4]
• Reduced withdrawal symptoms: Medical detox programs employ evidence-based approaches, including medication-assisted treatment (MAT), to alleviate the physical and psychological symptoms of withdrawal. Studies have shown that MAT can significantly reduce the severity of withdrawal symptoms, leading to a more comfortable detox experience.[5]
• Lower risk of complications: One of the primary goals of medical detox is to ensure the safety and well-being of individuals undergoing withdrawal. By providing round-the-clock medical supervision and access to healthcare professionals, medical detox programs help mitigate the risk of complications associated with withdrawal, such as seizures, dehydration, and cardiac issues.[6]
• Serving as a gateway to further treatment: Medical detox serves as a critical first step in the continuum of care for people with substance use disorders. Research has shown that people who complete detox and engage in follow-up treatment at a recovery center are more likely to achieve sustained sobriety and improved overall functioning.[7]

What Kind of Treatment Will I Receive During Detox?

In the initial phase of treatment, detoxification is primarily focused on safely withdrawing from substances, ensuring both physical and psychological well-being. Once transitioned to residential care, you’ll receive a comprehensive array of evidence-based treatment services, behavioral health, and therapeutic modalities to address substance use disorder and promote holistic healing:

How Will I Know Which Level of Care is Right for Me?

Choosing the right level of care for addressing substance use and addiction is imperative. At Wellbridge, you and our experienced treatment team collaboratively make this decision. By assessing your needs and goals, we’ll determine the severity of substance use, any co-occurring mental health conditions, medical history, social support, and past treatment experiences. This comprehensive evaluation guides us in tailoring recommendations to your unique situation—which includes whether or not you’ll need detox at our facility on Long Island.

Together, we determine the most suitable level of care, which may include residential treatment for intensive support and supervision, especially for complex medical or psychological issues.

Throughout the assessment and planning process, our team offers personalized guidance, answers your questions, and empowers you to make informed decisions about your treatment. We aim to ensure you or your loved one receives optimal care to enhance your chances of lasting recovery and overall well-being while at our inpatient treatment center.