Making the decision to get help for addiction is scary for many people. Withdrawals can be painful and they are one of the primary reasons why so many people put off getting help. Rather than going at it alone, asking for help from a drug and alcohol detox in Southwest Harbor, Maine is the best idea. 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. Addiction can feel hopeless, but with the help of treatment medications, therapy, and support groups, you can take your life back. Most importantly, detox and treatment providers can design individualized treatment plans, allowing you to get the best possible care. 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. Attending a drug and alcohol detox in Southwest Harbor, Maine gives you access to doctors and clinicians who can provide support, monitor your symptoms, and ensure your safety during detox. Doctors are able to prescribe medications to minimize your withdrawal symptoms and help you cope with cravings. There are 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 Southwest Harbor, Maine

Detox typically involves three steps: an initial evaluation, medical stabilization, and planning for ongoing care.

Step 1: Evaluation

The first thing that will happen when you get to a drug and alcohol detox in Southwest Harbor, Maine is a psychiatric and medical evaluation. Evaluations are one of the most important steps because this is what helps doctors identify your treatment needs and create a detox plan that works best for you. 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

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. 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

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. 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. Also, people who abuse alcohol will experience different symptoms than people who are addicted to cocaine. 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 Southwest Harbor, Maine can help you endure them as safely and comfortably as possible.

Creating a Plan to Stay Sober After Detox

Addiction is a chronic and relapsing disease, so detox is only the first step towards recovery. Most people attend inpatient or outpatient rehab after finishing detox. Treatment doesn’t cure addiction, either, which is why you may need to go to a sober home or join a recovery support group to stay sober after rehab.

Find a Drug and Alcohol Detox in Southwest 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 a loved one are struggling with addiction, don’t hesitate to ask for help. Find a drug and alcohol detox center in Southwest Harbor, Maine today by speaking with one of our addiction specialists.