Drug and Alcohol Detox

What Is Detox?

Detoxification (commonly referred to as detox) is often the first step in an addiction treatment plan, especially for certain substances such as alcohol or heroin. Detox is the process by which the body rids itself of drugs or alcohol when someone discontinues substance abuse. Our detox centers are available to help people get through this process safely and successfully, and a carefully planned approach to this process promotes overall addiction recovery.

What is Withdrawal?

Withdrawal from drugs or alcohol can be a painful and stressful process. As you develop a pattern of regular substance abuse, the chemistry of your brain is altered. Neurons and hormones are affected by substance abuse. Once the addictive substances are no longer present, your body’s chemistry balance is thrown into confusion.

These alterations can progress to a point where receptors in the brain stop functioning correctly. The resulting neurochemical reactions that happen during withdrawal cause adverse physical symptoms.

Withdrawal effects can include:

What is Medically Assisted Drug and Alcohol Detox?

Withdrawal is often unpleasant, but quitting certain substances such as alcohol or benzodiazepines can be dangerous or even deadly. If you are addicted to these substances, the best—and safest—course of action is to go through a medically assisted detox.

In medically assisted detox, medical personnel supervise patients around the clock. Depending on the nature of your addiction, detox staff may administer medications that ease withdrawal symptoms and control cravings. Some of these medications mimic the effects of the substance on the body in order to prevent withdrawal and are administered in gradually decreasing doses.

What Happens During Detox?

Detox is not a one-size-fits-all program. At a high-quality detox center, the process begins with a conversation between you and detox experts who help you understand what to expect during detox.

Detox is designed to help you rest, heal, and recover from drug and alcohol addiction. As you are weaned off the drugs and your body is gradually restored to its original balance, you will need time to process the physical and psychological changes. A professional detox program provides medical supervision in a safe, sober, and supportive environment so you can have the best opportunity for sustained sobriety.

Most often, clients are asked to disconnect from their typical daily routine to complete detox. This means personal cell phones, laptops, and other internet-capable devices are not allowed. However, there are exceptions, as disconnecting completely is not always possible.

Some clients like business executives, politicians, lawyers, or CEOs may need to complete detox while maintaining their professional responsibilities. In these instances, an Executive Detox program can provide effective detox treatment with deluxe amenities, enhanced privacy and discretion, and the ability to access a personal cell phone and computer while detoxing.

Whether you enroll in a traditional detox program or executive detox, a few things will remain the same. After you check in and complete paperwork, you’ll be assigned to a room. During your stay, you’ll frequently meet with your treatment counselors and medical staff, and you’ll be given plenty of time to rest while your body adjusts to functioning without substances. The detox process can vary and is tailored to each person’s individual situation.

Do I need Detox?

Whether you would benefit from detox before beginning therapy depends on several factors, including the length and intensity of your addiction, the substances you use and your most recent usage. The only way to find out whether you need detox is to get a personalized assessment from an addiction specialist. If you’re unsure whether you need detox, contact Nova Recovery Center today. Our compassionate admissions advisers can help you determine how best to proceed in your journey to recovery.

Briarwood Detox Center is located in Austin and offers detox from many types of substances within the comfort of warm, lodge-like accommodations.

Briarwood Detox Center is located in the Houston Heights, just 20 minutes northwest of downtown. Houston, Texas boasts comfortable, warm weather throughout the majority of the year, making this detox center a great place to rest, relax, and heal.