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Detox Centers

Detox centers are inpatient sites intended to help addicts overcome and fight addictions. Detox centers are available for almost every type of addiction, including alcohol, heroin and cocaine. Some detox centers treat multiple addictions. Others focus on one particular addictive substance.

  1. Choosing a Detox Center

    • The first step is finding a detox center that specializes in the type of addiction you are trying to overcome. If you have multiple addictions, a detox center that focuses on dual treatment may be the best option. Look for services that will help you. Among those services are 24-hour nursing care or medical monitoring, access to psychiatrists, psychologists and therapists on staff, alternative treatments, drug therapies to help battle withdrawal symptoms and rehabilitation programs.

    The Benefits of Inpatient Detox Centers

    • Inpatient detox centers can offer help and support that is not available if you are trying to overcoming drug and alcohol addiction on your own. The detox centers give you an opportunity to undergo withdrawal while being monitored by medical professionals. You will not have access to the drug during the treatment period. Medical and drug therapies may be available to help ease withdrawal symptoms. Second, after the withdrawal period, detox centers can provide you with a safe environment in which to learn to cope with and manage your addiction.

    Detox Center Procedures

    • Typically, when a patient is admitted to a detox center, he first gets a physical and psychological evaluation. Professionals identify the extent of the addiction and look for the underlying psychological causes and attitude. Then "acute" detox occurs. The patient stops using the drugs and his body reacts adversely. After this acute withdrawal period, therapy and recovery begin. This involves classes, group and private therapy sessions, and in some cases family therapy.

    Acute Detox

    • Vomiting, hallucinations and an uncontrollable urge to use the drug are common side effects of withdrawal. Other, more serious, side effects are possible. Drug therapies, including beta-blockers, may help in coping with the withdrawal symptoms and lessen the physical effects of withdrawal.

    The Recovery Process

    • The average length of stay in a detox center is six weeks. During this period, the patient undergoes therapy to help uncover the root of the addiction. He also attends meetings and classes to help learn how he will manage the addiction and avoid relapsing.

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