Deciding to get help for drug or alcohol addiction is terrifying for most. Many addicts and alcoholics fear going into withdrawal and will do anything they can to avoid feeling sick. Getting help from a drug and alcohol detox in Gardiner, Maine can make the process easier. 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. With the help of detox medications, therapy, and ongoing care, you can recover from drug and alcohol addiction. Most importantly, drug and alcohol treatment providers can set you up with a treatment plan that is unique to your individual needs, goals, and beliefs. The first step is to locate a medical detox center in your area.

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. 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 Gardiner, 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 Gardiner, 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

After your evaluation, your individual treatment plan will begin. 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. 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 different options for treating addiction after detox, including inpatient, outpatient, sober living, and support groups. An addiction counselor will work with you to develop a treatment plan that best meets your needs.

Typical Withdrawal Symptoms

Many factors come into play when determining the nature, severity, and duration of withdrawal symptoms. Some primary contributing factors into how long and how severe withdrawal is include: how long the substance has been used, how often, in what amount, and the overall quality of the individual’s health. The exact symptoms you experience will also vary depending on which type of substance you are addicted to. 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 medical detox centers in Gardiner, Maine are prepared to help you cope with these symptoms.

Creating a Plan to Stay Sober After Detox

Addiction is a disease and detox is only the first step of treatment. Most people attend inpatient or outpatient rehab after finishing detox. 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 Gardiner, Maine Today

Detox is a serious and important step in the recovery process which is why it should always take place in a medical setting. Medical detox centers are able to administer medications, provide support, and make treatment referrals for people struggling with addiction. If you or someone you know is struggling with an addiction to drugs or alcohol, it’s time to take the first step and 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 Gardiner, Maine today.