Many people are nervous and scared to seek help for a substance abuse problem. 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 Winter Harbor, Maine. Instead of living a life ravaged by addiction, detox centers can treat your withdrawal symptoms and connect you with rehab providers who will show you how to stay sober. With the help of detox medications, therapy, and ongoing care, you can recover from drug and alcohol addiction. Most importantly, detox and treatment providers can design individualized treatment plans, allowing you to get the best possible care. Finding a detox center in your area is the first step towards a happier, healthier life.

The Importance of Medically Supervised Detox

Regardless of what substance you are addicted to, trying to detox at home is never a good idea. Rather than detoxing alone, medical professionals and addiction specialists at local detox centers can help ensure your safety and comfort while you detox. Both medications and support groups may be used to help patients cope with their withdrawal symptoms and cravings during detox. There are both inpatient and outpatient detox options available. 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 Winter Harbor, Maine

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

Step 1: Evaluation

When you first arrive at a drug and alcohol detox in Winter Harbor, Maine, you will undergo a comprehensive medical and psychiatric evaluation. This step is critical as the information gathered in your evaluation will help determine your treatment plan. During your evaluation, you will be asked questions about your medical history, substance use, withdrawal symptoms, and more. You may also undergo blood tests, if necessary.

Step 2: Medical Stabilization

The actual process of detoxing begins after completing the initial evaluation. Medical stabilization involves the use of medications, therapy, and monitoring until a person has stopped experiencing withdrawal symptoms. For example, two of the most common medications used during detox to alleviate withdrawal symptoms are Suboxone or benzodiazepines. Depending on your situation, this phase may last anywhere from a couple days to two weeks.

Step 3: Aftercare Planning

After you are completed the medical stabilization phase of detox, the last step is to make a plan for ongoing care. Between inpatient, outpatient, and sober living, there are a variety of different treatment options available to you after detox. At the end of detox, an addictions counselor will help you choose the right aftercare plan 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. 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. Some withdrawal symptoms that you can expect include depression, headache, body aches, fever, chills, sweating, nausea, and more. The good news is that no matter what your symptoms are, medical detox centers in Winter Harbor, Maine can help you endure them as safely and comfortably as possible.

Creating a Plan to Stay Sober After Detox

Detox doesn’t cure addiction - nothing does - which is why detox is only the first step in the treatment process. Most people attend inpatient or outpatient rehab after finishing detox. Even treatment can’t cure addiction, which is why treatment doesn’t stop there. After rehab, be prepared to go to sober living or join a sober support group.

Find a Drug and Alcohol Detox in Winter Harbor, 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. During detox, medical professionals can prescribe medications, monitor patients, and make treatment center referrals to help people start off on the right track. If you or someone you know is addicted to drugs or alcohol, there is no reason to delay getting help. Pick up the phone and call today to locate a drug and alcohol detox center in Winter Harbor, Maine.