When it comes to treating drug and alcohol addiction, the needs differ with a patient. There are standard medical care practices that apply to every patient. The care and attention given to a distressed patient with severe symptoms are different from one who responds positively to the initial treatments. When you enroll in a detox center, the following things should be expected and which will influence the recovery process.
The Detox Process Can be Uncomfortable
It is essential to understand that detoxification is a step towards recovery and not a treatment on its own. With detox, you have a chance of getting better and healthy in the long run. The process is, however, uncomfortable due to the withdrawal symptoms that most people experience. The withdrawal affects both the body and the mind. When medical attention is not provided to the patient at the right time, it can be dangerous. However, enrolling in a detox center makes the process a bit comfortable as you will have medical professionals attending to your needs at all times.
You Will Have An Intake Exam
The right treatment and medical care will only be provided to you after the problem is medically confirmed. Before your admission, you will have an intake exam to determine the kind of support you’ll need. You should be ready to talk about your health or, in severe cases, have someone explain your abuse history and condition. You will have tests to check your mental and physical health. This is accompanied by blood work to check the level of drug substances or alcohol in your body.
There is Detox Support
It is true the detoxification process can be uncomfortable, and you should be prepared for that. However, detox support will be provided mainly if your withdrawal symptoms are severe. There is medicine to curb and reduce the effects of withdrawal. Physical and mental care is provided to keep you stable throughout the recovery process. There is constant blood pressure, temperature, heart rate, and breathing checks during the detox process. Psychologists and therapists also provide counseling services during and after the detoxification process.
Both Inpatient and Outpatient Programs Can be Applied
In most cases, after enrolling in a drug and alcohol detox center, you will be admitted during the process. The care will be provided to you around the clock by the healthcare and medical practitioners. This will be done until the moment you are considered clean and allowed to go back home. However, there are cases where you will be included in both inpatient and intensive outpatient treatment programs, especially if the risk of relapse is higher. The incorporation of both inpatient and outpatient treatment programs is aimed at your entire physical and mental recovery.
There is Follow-Up Care
When you enroll in a drug and alcohol detox center, you will be included in a support group. This is a self-care group for the patients moderated by a therapist or counselor. The support group aims to allow you as a patient to talk about the problem and express yourself freely. It is easier to address your addiction’s root cause when you share ideas and perspectives with other patients. There is follow-up care once you get back to your normal life. Expect constant visits and or checkup calls from your doctor or counselors. You will be asked to visit website for more updates, take a roll-call on your progress, explain your copying mechanism, talk about some of the challenges you experience and the kind of help you need.
Detoxification is not a treatment on its own but a step towards your recovery. When you enroll in a drug and alcohol detox center, there are several things to expect, as stated above. The treatment and recovery process becomes bearable when you understand what to expect and how to handle the steps’ outcomes.