Asking for help for a substance abuse problem is a scary decision for most people. Withdrawals can be painful and they are one of the primary reasons why so many people put off getting help. Enlisting the help of a drug and alcohol detox in Bar Harbor, Maine is always recommended. You don’t have to recover alone and you don’t have to fear going into withdrawal because addiction professionals are equipped to treat your symptoms and support you in recovery. Addiction can feel hopeless, but with the help of treatment medications, therapy, and support groups, you can take your life back. Fortunately, detox and treatment providers are able to create individualized treatment plans, so you can recieve care that is customized to meet your individual needs. The first step is to locate a medical detox center in your area.

The Importance of Medically Supervised Detox

You may be tempted to detox at home for a number of reasons, ranging from comfort to cost, however, doing so can be dangerous. When you attend a professional detox center in Bar Harbor, Maine, you have access to doctors and addiction specialists who can monitor your symptoms and support you throughout the process. During detox, you may be given over-the-counter or prescription medications to help reduce your symptoms and prevent complications. You can either choose an inpatient or outpatient setting for detox. These programs will also refer you to treatment programs, specialty rehabs, and community groups that will help support your lasting recovery.

What to Expect During Detox in Bar Harbor, Maine

Detox typically involves three steps: an initial evaluation, medical stabilization, and planning for ongoing care.

Step 1: Evaluation

The first thing that will happen when you get to a drug and alcohol detox in Bar Harbor, Maine is a psychiatric and medical evaluation. Evaluations are one of the most important steps because this is what helps doctors identify your treatment needs and create a detox plan that works best for you. If necessary, doctors may order blood work, but they usually just ask you questions about your medical history, drug and alcohol use, withdrawal symptoms, and any other relevant health information.

Step 2: Medical Stabilization

Once a thorough evaluation is completed, the next step is medical stabilization. During this stage, patients will receive medications and supportive counseling until their withdrawal symptoms fade away and they are ready to move onto the next phase of treatment. Medications such as Suboxone, Subutex, antidepressants, benzodiazepines, and others may be prescribed to help reduce withdrawal symptoms. The medical stabilization phase may last anywhere from a couple of days to two weeks or more depending on your unique situation and symptoms.

Step 3: Aftercare Planning

Once your withdrawal symptoms fade away and you begin feeling better, it’s time to make a plan for your next steps. There are many different options for treating addiction after detox, including inpatient, outpatient, sober living, and support groups. A drug and alcohol counselor will help you determine which type of rehab program is best for you.

Typical Withdrawal Symptoms

Each individual experiences withdrawal differently and a variety of factors go into the nature of one’s symptoms, how intense their symptoms are, and how long their symptoms persist. Some different factors that determine the duration and severity of withdrawal include how often you use a substance, how long you have been addicted, and whether or not you suffer from any co-occurring disorders. Different symptoms will occur for different drugs, for example, opioid withdrawal looks different than alcohol withdrawal. In general, some common symptoms you can expect during detox include headache, depression, irritability, body aches, nausea, vomiting, chills, and sweating. The good news is that no matter what your symptoms are, medical detox centers in Bar Harbor, Maine can help you endure them as safely and comfortably as possible.

Creating a Plan to Stay Sober After Detox

Addiction is a disease characterized by compulsive behaviors and relapse, so detox alone is rarely sufficient if people want to stay sober. Two options you have after detox are inpatient and outpatient treatment. Recovery is an ongoing process, so even after treatment, you may need to join a local support group or go to a halfway house.

Find a Drug and Alcohol Detox in Bar Harbor, Maine Today

Detox is a critical yet potentially dangerous first step towards sobriety which is why it should always occur in a professional treatment setting. Medical detox centers are able to administer medications, provide support, and make treatment referrals for people struggling with addiction. If you or a loved one are struggling with addiction, don’t hesitate to ask for help. Pick up the phone and contact one of our substance abuse counselors to get connected with a drug and alcohol detox in Bar Harbor, Maine today.