What Kind of Detox Is Right for Me?

Trying to determine the right detox center for your needs can be a puzzle, especially if you have never done something like it before. However, when you know a little more about the options available to you and you are aware of the care available at each type of program, you can better recognize which kind of detox will be right for your needs.

We are happy to answer any questions you may have about addiction, detox, and recovery, as well as to match you with facilities that will be effective for your needs. Just call 800-996-6135(Who Answers?) now to speak with a treatment advisor.

All Detox Programs Are Not the Same

The detox that is right for you depends on your unique needs.

There are a number of different options when it comes to detox centers for substance abuse treatment, and choosing the one that is right for you can take some true consideration. According to the National Institute on Drug Abuse, treatment programs for addiction are becoming more diverse and individualized every day, and even specific centers can differ from one another in the options they provide. In general, though, there are several types of detox programs that you are likely to encounter in your search for the best option.

Inpatient detox centers

These facilities provide 24-hour care to patients who require intensive treatment. The environment is controlled, and treatment is usually very strict. Also, patients often have access to more treatment options in inpatient care than they do in outpatient care.

Outpatient detox centers

These facilities do not provide 24-hour treatment, but they do offer the general evidence-based practices for detox in most cases. Patients are able to go home to their families each day and/or to work their treatment around their schedules.

Natural detox centers

These facilities are specifically focused on helping patients through detox as naturally as possible. As such, they do not provide pharmacological treatment options. Although they can be effective for some individuals, they can also be dangerous for those who require medications.

Holistic detox centers

These facilities offer different treatment options, usually in addition to evidence-based practices. They may include yoga, meditation, nutritional classes, acupuncture, dance or art therapy, and a host of other choices.

Spiritual detox centers

These facilities place spiritual growth on par with medical help during detox. Patients often have access to spiritual practitioners and their advice for a safe recovery.

Of course, some programs may be a combination of several of these options or something else entirely. Understanding that detox treatment is nuanced and alters from program to program will help you find the best choice for your recovery.

Detox for Different Substances of Abuse

Different substances can cause different withdrawal symptoms, according to the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration. As a result, it is important that you find a detox program that can handle the symptoms you are likely to experience.

Opioids

If you have been using opioids, you can rest easy in that there are a number of detox treatment options available for opioid addicts, including medications and behavioral therapies.

Some individuals may choose traditional care while others may take a different approach.

• Certain detox centers provide methadone or buprenorphine maintenance for a safe withdrawal period. Patients may be maintained on the medication or weaned off it as necessary.
• Rapid detox is another option for opioid withdrawal. Patients go through the process quickly while under sedation (NIDA).

Alcohol

In many cases, alcohol detox requires intensive treatment, usually with medications and behavioral therapies. Some individuals even need to be sedated for the entirety of their withdrawal, which must take place in an inpatient center. This withdrawal syndrome is one of the most dangerous, as it can lead to delirium tremens. According to the National Institute on Alcohol Abuse & Alcoholism, death may occur in up to 5% of patients who experience delirium tremens.

Stimulants

Someone who has been abusing stimulants can experience varying levels of withdrawal symptoms, most of which are psychological in nature. This can require intensive care in many cases.

Prescription drugs

The type of treatment that is best for the patient can depend heavily on the intensity of their use and likelihood of severe withdrawal symptoms. For example, benzodiazepines can cause intense and even life-threatening symptoms that may require inpatient care.

You must consider the intensity of your withdrawal among other aspects associated with your drug(s) of choice to determine which type of detox will be right for you.

Inpatient and Outpatient Detox

Not everyone needs inpatient care, and outpatient care can be just as effective in certain situations. Still, some individuals do require treatment in a 24-hour facility, especially if they are at risk of experiencing dangerous symptoms or if they are suffering from additional conditions. These can include

Individuals who are suffering from alcohol withdrawal

Alcohol withdrawal can take an intense turn for the worst in certain cases, which is why inpatient care is often a better option.

According to the National Library of Medicine, delirium tremens is a dangerous form of alcohol withdrawal that causes seizures and hallucinations. It is very difficult to predict whether or not a person will experience this syndrome, as it often comes on several days after the start of withdrawal.

Individuals who are suffering from benzodiazepine withdrawal

As stated previously, the symptoms of this syndrome can become life threatening and include hallucinations, delirium, anxiety, fear, and seizures.

Individuals who are suffering from stimulant withdrawal

Stimulant withdrawal can sometimes cause a syndrome known as toxic psychosis. According to the SSA, the individual may experience intense psychological symptoms for the first week or so of detox, which will require intensive care.

Individuals who have abused multiple drugs

People in this case are often likely to have more intense symptoms as well as a harder time avoiding relapse.

Individuals who are suffering from comorbid disorders

Inpatient detox centers are better at treating dual diagnosis than outpatient programs.

Individuals who do not have a social support system at home

Without a necessary level of peer support, it can be hard to avoid relapse. In inpatient care, the doctors, nurses, and other patients will actually help fill this void.

Individuals whose home environments are not safe

A home that is not safe can spell disaster during withdrawal. No matter what the case, an individual going through this delicate process must be somewhere they can be protected from relapse and other dangers.

Inpatient detox is often a safer, more effective choice, especially for those who are likely to experience a difficult withdrawal. However, every patient is different, and you must consider which option will be most effective for you.

Luxury, Free, and Low-cost Detox

Detox facilities can also be divided by their costs, which can do even more to help you determine the type of care that will suit you best. Depending on your financial situation, one of these may seem more effective for your needs.

• Luxury detox centers offer additional accommodations and amenities that can ensure patient comfort during withdrawal. However, these facilities can be quite expensive, and not all insurance plans will cover them.
• Free detox centers offer care that is completely free of cost. According to SAMHSA, patient eligibility is usually based on income and other factors in order to ensure that only individuals who would not be able to seek treatment otherwise can receive this type of care.

If you can afford to pay for detox but cannot afford luxury care, there are regular and low-cost detox facilities where you can receive effective treatment at a reasonable price. You may also want to make sure the facility of your choice

• Accepts your insurance plan
• Offers sliding-fee scale payment
• Offers facility grants
• Allows patients to finance their treatment

Choosing a detox facility by cost should not be your only priority, but it can be an important one. When you are looking for the detox program that is right for you, it is best to ensure that you can pay for it without breaking the bank but also that you are choosing treatment that will be effective. After all, a medical program is not where you should try to cut corners in terms of cost.

Your Recovery, Your Detox

The best way to know what kind of detox is right for you is to ask yourself what your needs are and what feels best to you. This is your recovery so the program should suit your needs. Make sure to choose a treatment center that makes you feel comfortable and safe and a program that does the same. For example, if a family member wants you to choose outpatient care or spiritual detox, make sure it is what you want before you make the choice. Those who feel comfortable in their treatment facilities will be more likely to finish out their care, which, according to the NIDA, is linked with successful outcomes.

Let Us Help You Determine Which Kind of Detox Is Right for You.

Just call 800-996-6135(Who Answers?) now to speak with a treatment advisor. You can talk about your requirements for detox as well as the programs you are looking for, and we will help you find the facilities closest to you that will allow you to recover safely and effectively.

Sources

1. National Institute on Drug Abuse. (2018). Principles of Drug Addiction Treatment: A Research-Based Guide (Third Edition)- Types of Treatment Programs. 
2. Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration. (2013). TIP 45 Detoxification and Substance Abuse Treatment.
3. National Institute on Drug Abuse. (2006). Study Finds Withdrawal No Easier With Ultrarapid Opiate Detox.
4. National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism. (1998). Complications of Alcohol Withdrawal.
5. U.S. National Library of Medicine. (2017). Delirium Tremens.
6. Society for the Study of Addiction. (2010). Withdrawal symptoms in abstinent methamphetamine-dependent subjects.
7. Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration. (2010). Awareness Campaigns On Underage Drinking. Suicide Prevention. Mental Health.
8. National Institute on Drug Abuse. (2018). Principles of Drug Addiction Treatment: A Research-Based Guide (Third Edition)- What Helps People Stay in Treatment?