While researching detox methods, you may have read articles listing the benefits of doing it at home. Quitting addictive substances is a challenging process that many would prefer to attempt in a private and familiar environment. Though it may be tempting to start your recovery at home, the side effects of withdrawal could lead to potentially dangerous outcomes. There are many reasons medically monitored detoxification increases your chances of recovering from addiction.
What Is Medical Detox?
Medically supervised detoxification is the process of ridding the body of addictive substances with the help of licensed medical professionals. This process takes place at a treatment center, where a team of doctors, nurses, and physician’s assistants can administer around-the-clock care. Medical staff tailor treatments to your specific needs and negate the harsh effects of withdrawal on your body.
Like many chronic conditions, such as diabetes or arthritis, addiction can be managed effectively through medical intervention. Addiction is a disease and needs to be treated as such. Detox centers help manage addiction similar to how hospitals help manage diabetic attacks. They provide stabilization and support to assist with the side effects of drug detox in a safe environment.
Does Medical Detox Cure Addiction?
Yes and no. Medical detox is simply removing addictive substances from the body to decrease dependency. It helps relieve acute symptoms of withdrawal, which then aids the long-term treatment of addiction. It doesn’t solve the underlying issues that caused dependency or show you how to maintain sobriety.
Medical detox treatment is just one step in a comprehensive rehabilitative program. Curing addiction requires much more than simply eliminating the presence of a drug in the body. When you enter a detox program, your physical, mental and spiritual wellness are all taken into consideration. Doctors, nurses, counselors and therapists will work together to create a treatment plan designed just for you.
Reasons To Detox Medically
Rehab works because it’s designed to offer an efficient path to sobriety. Experts often include medical detox as the first step in rehab programs because of its effectiveness. There are many reasons medical detox is better than going cold turkey, including that:
- It’s safer. Going into detox, it’s hard to gauge how severe the side effects of withdrawal will become. For example, delirium caused by alcohol withdrawal has up to a 37% mortality rate without medical intervention. At a medical detox facility, you have constant access to doctors and nurses who are standing by to help.
- You’re less likely to relapse in the short term. One study estimated that two-thirds of individuals relapse in less than a month after quitting. The major factor contributing to relapse was stress and trauma caused by withdrawal. Medical detox improves your chances for success by reducing adverse side effects experienced during recovery.
- You’re less likely to relapse in the long term. Recovery is a lifelong journey and there are sure to be bumps in the road. By making connections with trusted medical professionals early on, you’re more likely to reach out for support when you need it in the future.
- It’s more comfortable. During medical detox, trained professionals are available to monitor your progress and make any adjustments necessary for your comfort. They ensure the process is less painful by staying on top of withdrawal symptoms. At home, you’re left to your own devices to deal with the side effects of drug detox, which often leads to relapse.
- It may be more cost-effective. Did you know insurance will often cover the cost of medical detox and rehab services? Many inpatient programs will also offer financing solutions. Medical detox can be much more cost-effective than an unplanned visit to the ER.
- You can create a recovery network. During medical detox, professionals create a recovery plan designed around your comprehensive health. They also ensure you’re in contact with people who are focused on your success and well-being. Medical detox is the first step that leads to developing a strong support network during recovery.
- You’ll learn the science behind addiction. People struggling with addiction have often been demonized by the media. Science has shown that addiction stems from both biological and behavioral factors. Through medical detox and rehabilitation, you’ll learn that addiction is a treatable medical illness that can be managed like any other.
- They can treat other medical issues caused by addiction. According to the National Institute on Drug Abuse, people with addiction often have underlying health issues like heart disease and cancer. Medical staff are available at detox facilities to help identify and treat these concerns while you’re undergoing recovery.
- You may discover the root cause of your addiction. Knowing the cause of an illness is essential to creating a plan for treatment. Medical detox isn’t just a physical process. You’ll also receive support from mental health professionals who’ll help you discover why your addiction began.
- It’s easier on your family. Family members aren’t usually equipped to handle the pain and trauma associated with withdrawal. Knowing that you’re in the care of trained experts and in a safe environment will provide peace of mind for your friends and family.
Addiction is a disease, and like any disease, it requires medical attention. Compared to detoxing at home, medical detox and rehabilitation minimizes the risks and improves the outcomes for long-term sobriety. All these reasons to detox are taken into account at FHE Health and built into the programs we offer.
Secure Your Success With FHE Health
If you are trying to recover from addiction, don’t be afraid to reach out for help. At FHE, our medical detox program will provide you with the support you need to overcome withdrawal symptoms. We’ve spared no expense in creating a beautiful state-of-the-art facility designed with your comfort in mind. Reach out to one of our compassionate admissions counselors for more information today.
