A medical detox program is an important step in the recovery process for those struggling with substance use disorders. It is a process that assists individuals in safely and effectively managing their withdrawal symptoms. Your body will display important signs you need a medical detox. When you recognize these cues, it’s essential to seek help as soon as you can.
At Northpoint Seattle, we understand that medical detox is the beginning of recovery. We provide rehab and aftercare programs to assist our patients in their continued recovery journey. Our team supports, educates, and motivates our patients to build healthy habits that are essential to long-term sobriety. Learn more about our medical detox center today by calling 888.483.6031.
Signs You Need a Medical Detox
When someone has been using drugs or alcohol for an extended period of time, their body can become dependent on it to function normally. If this happens, it is important to seek professional help from a medical detox program. There are some common signs that your body needs a medical detox, including:
- Intense cravings for drugs or alcohol
- Physical discomfort due to withdrawal symptoms
- Difficulty sleeping
- Poor appetite
- Concentration problems
- Mood swings
- Increased anxiety or depression
- Confusion
If these signs are present, it’s important to seek help right away before any more serious complications arise.
Medical Detox Treatment Helps You Recover
Medical detox helps individuals manage their withdrawal symptoms so they can begin the journey toward lasting recovery. Medical professionals provide 24-hour monitoring and support while administering medication-assisted treatment (MAT) when necessary to help relieve uncomfortable side effects and reduce cravings. This allows individuals to focus on their recovery without having to worry about their physical health or mental well-being during this difficult time.
How Medical Detox Works
The medical detox process typically takes place in a residential setting where individuals are surrounded by supportive staff members specializing in addiction treatment services. During this time, patients will receive MAT that helps alleviate uncomfortable withdrawal symptoms and reduce cravings for drugs or alcohol.
Additionally, patients will participate in individual therapy sessions with counselors, group therapy sessions with peers, and recreational activities such as art therapy and yoga classes designed to promote physical and mental well-being.
Medications Used in a Medical Detox Program
The medications used during a medical detox program depend on the individual’s specific needs. Typically, they include opioid agonists like buprenorphine or methadone, which are designed to reduce the intensity of withdrawal symptoms without producing intoxication or euphoria associated with other opioids, such as heroin or oxycodone.
Other medications may also be prescribed based on an individual’s needs which could include:
- Antidepressants
- Anti-anxiety medications
- Sleep aids
- Vitamins and minerals
- Health supplements
All of these medications can help improve overall mental health during this difficult time of recovery.
The Benefits of Detox and Rehab
Detoxing from drugs or alcohol is only the first step toward long-term sobriety. It must be followed by comprehensive addiction treatment services that focus on addressing underlying issues such as trauma, family dynamics, and communication skills.
Through therapeutic modalities, patients gain insight into why they have been using substances for so long and learn coping mechanisms that will help them stay sober long after completing rehab services. Some of these therapies include:
- Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT)
- Dialectical behavior therapy (DBT)
- Art therapy
Medical Detox at Northpoint Seattle
At Northpoint Seattle, medical detox can help you or a loved one recover from using drugs or alcohol. Our patients stay in a place with support staff who give them FDA-approved medications to help their bodies get used to not having drugs or alcohol. They also do activities like art therapy and yoga to help them feel better.
Don’t wait to get help. If you recognize the signs you need a medical detox, contact us by calling 888.483.6031 or filling out our online form today.
