Asking for help for a substance abuse problem is a scary decision for most people. Many addicts and alcoholics fear going into withdrawal and will do anything they can to avoid feeling sick. The best way to start the recovery process is by going to a drug and alcohol detox in Newcastle, Maine. You don’t have to let the fear of withdrawal stop you because detox centers have doctors on-staff who can help reduce your symptoms and set you up with a treatment plan for lasting sobriety. By taking advantage of detox medications, support from peers, and evidence-based treatment, you can attain long-term sobriety. 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

If you’re tempted to detox alone, know that doing so can be dangerous and even life-threatening. Rather than detoxing alone, medical professionals and addiction specialists at local detox centers can help ensure your safety and comfort while you detox. During detox, you may be given over-the-counter or prescription medications to help reduce your symptoms and prevent complications. Some people detox on an inpatient basis, while others can manage their symptoms through outpatient. When you go to medical detox, they can also refer you to treatment programs and sober housing where you can continue your recovery after detox.

What to Expect During Detox in Newcastle, Maine

The drug and alcohol detox process consists of three phases: evaluation, medical stabilization, and aftercare planning.

Step 1: Evaluation

The first step of detox in Newcastle, Maine is the evaluation where a professional gathers medical and psychiatric information. Comprehensive evaluations help professionals make clinical decisions regarding how they will treat a patient based on their individual needs. You may undergo certain tab tests as well as be asked information about your medical history, drug and alcohol use, and current withdrawal symptoms.

Step 2: Medical Stabilization

The actual process of detoxing begins after completing the initial evaluation. This is when patients take their prescribed medications, eat a healthy diet, and are monitored until their withdrawal symptoms subside. Some of the most popular detox medications include Suboxone, benzodiazepines, and more. These are used to help reduce the severity of withdrawal. Depending on your situation, this phase may last anywhere from a couple days to two weeks.

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 options for treatment after detox, ranging from inpatient and outpatient to sober living or support groups. A substance abuse counselor will help you figure out which type of addiction treatment is best for you.

Typical Withdrawal Symptoms

The types of symptoms experienced, how intense the symptoms are, and how long they last depend on a number of factors that are unique to each individual. How long a person has used a substance, how often they use it and in what amount, and their overall health are all factors that determine the severity and duration of withdrawal symptoms. 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. Fortunately, medical detox centers in Newcastle, Maine have the staff and resources necessary to make withdrawal as bearable as possible. On the bright side, drug and alcohol detox centers in Newcastle, Maine specialize in helping people get through withdrawal safely and comfortably.

Creating a Plan to Stay Sober After Detox

Addiction is a chronic and relapsing disease, so detox is only the first step towards recovery. After detox, you may choose to go to an inpatient or outpatient rehab program. It’s also important to remember that recovery is an ongoing process, so even after you go to rehab, you’ll need to go to sober living or join a support group.

Find a Drug and Alcohol Detox in Newcastle, Maine Today

Detox is one of the most important yet most serious steps of the recovery process, which is why it should always occur in a professional treatment setting. Medical detox programs can provide you with medical care, emotional support, and treatment planning throughout the detox process. If you or a loved one are suffering from addiction, there is no better time to ask for help than right now. Pick up the phone and contact one of our substance abuse counselors to get connected with a drug and alcohol detox in Newcastle, Maine today.