Massachusetts Drug and Alcohol Rehab Shares What to Expect When You Get to Drug Detox
UNION, NJ / ACCESSWIRE / April 28, 2018 / Drug and alcohol rehab center, Serenity at Summit, shares what clients can expect when they walk into drug detox. They know that making the decision to seek treatment for addiction isn't easy, it takes a great leap of faith and a willingness to try to change. Knowing what to expect can help alleviate some of the fear and anxiety new clients feel upon entering detox.
Intake and Assessment
The first thing you will do when you reach drug detox is talk with one of the intake counselors. The counselor will review your history, drug use, and medical conditions. Typically, the next step is to use that information to come up with a treatment plan that is tailored to your personal needs.
You will probably feel uneasy being in an unfamiliar place, with all unfamiliar faces around you. You may begin to rationalize all the reasons why you don't belong there or need addiction treatment at all. You may have thoughts about leaving treatment - these feelings are normal, most every patient in drug rehab feels that way in the beginning. But they will pass, so stay the course.
Medical Evaluation
Sometime after your intake, you will likely have a medical examination. Most people who enter detox have been abusing drugs or alcohol for a long time and that can take a physical toll on the body. So that any medical issues, nutritional deficiencies, and health concerns can be addressed, you will see a doctor and have a comprehensive evaluation.
Medically-Supervised Detox
Now that you have been evaluated for intake and for your health, you are ready to begin detox. Your medical team will monitor your withdrawal symptoms closely, especially if you are detoxing from alcohol or benzodiazepines for which withdrawal can be life-threatening.
Under the supervision of a medical doctor, you may receive medications that will help your detox. For example, if you were using heroin or other opiate drugs, you may be prescribed medication that will help minimize cravings and ease the discomfort of withdrawal. If you were using alcohol or benzodiazepines, you may be given small doses of benzodiazepines to aid in your withdrawal. If you are prescribed medication for your detox, it will likely only be for a short period of time (3-10 days) and then you will be weaned of it slowly. Nutritional supplements, fluids for dehydration, pain relievers (non-narcotic), and other non-addictive medications may also be ordered for your health and comfort.