Content medically reviewed by Vicky Magobet, PMHNP-BC, on June 14, 2022.
Before you begin rehab, it's essential to detox your system of substances. Starting recovery is a significant accomplishment, and preparing the mind and body for treatment can make the next steps more manageable. Learn more about whether detox is needed before rehab and what detox entails.
Detox involves removing substances from your body to reduce physical dependence. This process is usually facilitated with the help of medications, such as buprenorphine for opioid addictions or benzodiazepines for alcohol addictions. Medically assisted detox can help you avoid more intense withdrawal symptoms, like insomnia, anxiety or depression.
When you detox with help from medical professionals, you can taper the substance off gradually. This process helps prevent discomfort many people associate with withdrawal and detoxing, letting you begin your recovery journey in a controlled environment.
The detox to rehab process begins with an evaluation performed by a medical professional, which encompasses your physical and psychiatric health. The doctor or nurse practitioner will diagnose any conditions that may have contributed to your substance use, plus any other disorders they may find through blood tests.
The next step is stabilization, which encompasses medication use and may include therapy sessions to address any co-occurring mental health conditions. Finding out what substances are in your system allows medical professionals to decide what medication to use and how much to administer over a given period.
After detox is over, you'll continue with therapy and begin any other treatments needed, such as chronic pain management or medicating conditions like depression and anxiety.
Medically-assisted detox before rehab encourages focus, increases your chances of success and lessens your risk of relapse through education and healthy coping skills. Without detox, you may find it more challenging to follow through with necessary treatment steps or benefit from therapy.
Some substances cause physical addiction by targeting the brain's receptors, while others work through psychological dependence — though they may still have physical reactions. These physically addicting substances especially require detox so that you can manage treatment while minimizing physical withdrawal symptoms and relapses.
At Diamond House Detox, we give individualized care to every client and help those with co-occurring mental health disorders receive the treatment they need to live a sober life. If you or a loved one is suffering from addiction, get help today by exploring our programs or reaching out to us.
