Making the decision to get help for addiction is scary for many people. Of course, drug and alcohol withdrawal is something that many addicts avoid at all costs, and is one reason why so many delay getting sober. The best way to start the recovery process is by going to a drug and alcohol detox in Belfast, 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. Get started on your journey by locating a detox center near you.

The Importance of Medically Supervised Detox

If you’re considering detoxing on your own, you may want to think again. Detoxing outside of a medical environment can be dangerous and even life-threatening. Going to a drug and alcohol detox in Belfast, Maine will provide you with support from addiction specialists and 24/7 monitoring from medical professionals. Doctors are able to prescribe medications to minimize your withdrawal symptoms and help you cope with cravings. Some people detox on an inpatient basis, while others can manage their symptoms through outpatient. 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 Belfast, 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 Belfast, 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 may have to submit blood tests and provide information about your drug and alcohol use, medical history, any prescriptions you are taking, and more.

Step 2: Medical Stabilization

The next step after a comprehensive evaluation is medical stabilization. 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. 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

After you finish your detox treatment plan, the next step involves aftercare planning. There are many options for treatment after detox, ranging from inpatient and outpatient to sober living or support groups. A drug and alcohol counselor will help you determine which type of rehab program 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. Also, people who abuse alcohol will experience different symptoms than people who are addicted to cocaine. Among the most common withdrawal symptoms include nausea, vomiting, sweating, chills, body aches, fever, headache, and depression. The good news is that no matter what your symptoms are, medical detox centers in Belfast, 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. 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 Belfast, 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. 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. Contact one of our dedicated treatment providers today to find a drug and alcohol detox center in Belfast, Maine.