Making the decision to get help for addiction is scary for many people. One of the biggest fears of people seeking treatment is the fear of withdrawal. Enlisting the help of a drug and alcohol detox in Portland, Maine is always recommended. Rather than staying in fear of withdrawal, medical professionals can support you while you detox and set you up with a plan for recovery. By taking advantage of detox medications, support from peers, and evidence-based treatment, you can attain long-term sobriety. 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. Take the first step towards recovery today by finding a professional detox center near you.

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. Attending a drug and alcohol detox in Portland, Maine gives you access to doctors and clinicians who can provide support, monitor your symptoms, and ensure your safety during detox. Both medications and support groups may be used to help patients cope with their withdrawal symptoms and cravings during detox. 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 Portland, Maine

Detox programs can be divided into three separate phases, including evaluation, stabilization, and treatment planning.

Step 1: Evaluation

The first step of detox in Portland, Maine is the evaluation where a professional gathers medical and psychiatric information. This is perhaps the most important step because it allows medical professionals to determine your needs and create a treatment plan accordingly. 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

Once a thorough evaluation is completed, the next step is medical stabilization. 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. 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

Many factors come into play when determining the nature, severity, and duration of withdrawal symptoms. 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. Depending on which substance you are addicted to, you may experience different symptoms than the person next to you. Among the most common withdrawal symptoms include nausea, vomiting, sweating, chills, body aches, fever, headache, and depression. The good news is that medical detox centers in Portland, Maine are prepared to help you cope with these symptoms.

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. The most popular options for addiction treatment include inpatient and outpatient treatment. 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 Portland, 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 someone you know is addicted to drugs or alcohol, there is no reason to delay getting help. Find a drug and alcohol detox center in Portland, Maine today by speaking with one of our addiction specialists.