The primary step taken before a long-term treatment program is detoxification. If a patient has been suffering from drug abuse, harmful toxins from the substance must be removed from the body. This is done to manage several withdrawal symptoms once the patient abstains from taking drugs.
It’s important to note that drug detox does not represent treatment for drug addiction as a whole, but it is still an essential step nonetheless. This is also a delicate process and must be administered under medical supervision at all times to guarantee the patient’s safe withdrawal.
Withdrawal Symptoms
As the patient begins to quit taking drugs, the following withdrawal symptoms may arise:
- Anxiety
- Nausea
- Insomnia
- Frequent mood swings
- Poor sleep
- Concentration difficulty
- Body discomfort
The Process of Drug Detox
Each patient has varying needs and degrees of addiction, that’s why it’s important to keep in mind that this process may involve the same steps but may vary in its methods depending on the patient.
1. A patient’s medical history will be assessed by professionals in order to make an accurate diagnosis of their case. This involves making a detailed account of their history of drug abuse—from the doses they are accustomed to, duration of abuse, types of drugs taken, and prior attempts to get sober (if they did).
2. Medical and psychological therapies will be administered to stabilize the patient and minimize the harm caused by withdrawal symptoms. Medications may also be prescribed to further reduce the symptoms.
3. The last step is when the patient is prepared for a longer treatment program. Professionals will help the patients familiarize themselves with the treatment process. The therapies will continue to be administered, but will be adjusted depending on the patient’s needs.
Drug detox is best done under the supervision of professionals, so every patient can safely overcome the bodily changes and cravings with the right help. Here at Broadway Treatment Center, our medical professionals will assist you throughout the detoxification process and help you curb the effects of drug abuse. Please contact our staff if you need more information, and we’ll provide you with everything you’ll need.