When you’re ready to get off the substance that has taken over your life, you’re going to want to start looking into a detox program that will help. Detoxing involves ridding your body of the substances you have been abusing and managing the withdrawal symptoms that usually occur during this time. The process and length of time will be different for everyone involved. If you are wondering how long detox programs last, read on for more information.
Detoxing- The Factors Involved
There is no clear answer as to how long it will take to detox from alcohol or drugs. Detox programs themselves last anywhere from a couple of weeks to a few months. If you are deciding on a center, you will have to choose one that fits your personal needs as well as your situation. For example, you may wish to get involved in a residential program that requires overnight stays in your own room. If you are seriously addicted to alcohol or drugs, an inpatient stay in a hospital setting will be the safer choice. If you are unsure what to choose, an addiction specialist can help you make the right decision.
Most centers offer 30-day, 60-day, and 90-day programs. Others may offer two-week programs or programs that are even longer than 90-days. The actual detox process will depend on a number of factors. For most patients, detox will only take a few days to a week. However, cravings may last for several months. This is why it is so important to take part in a rehab program that will help you during this difficult time.
How long your detox will take will depend on the following factors:
- Which drug was abused
- How many substances were abused
- How much of the substances you used daily
- How long you have been using
- Your age and gender
- Your physical history
- Your mental health conditions
During the intake process, you will talk with the medical staff concerning your drug and alcohol use. It is very important to be as open and honest as you can about your history. They need to know exactly how you have been abusing drugs or alcohol in order to put together a plan that works. Remember, many patients come to the facility having just used. It’s okay if you show up under the influence.
What is Detox Like?
When you check into rehab, the very first step will be detox. If your withdrawal symptoms are particularly severe, the medical staff will prescribe medication to help your body handle the symptoms, such as Suboxone or a similar medication. Different drugs stay in your body for different amounts of time, affecting the length of your detox. In most cases, you will be able to detox from the substances you used within a week or so. However, your cravings could linger on for weeks or even months. Cognitive behavioral therapy combined with group therapy, holistic treatments, and family therapy are highly suggested.
What Happens Next?
Detox will be the first phase of the program and should never be considered an alternative to rehab and therapy programs. This is because detox does not address the behavioral, social, and psychological problems that are associated with addiction. While your body will get rid of the drugs or alcohol in your system, your cravings will still be present. This is why most rehab programs offer therapy sessions the very first day, even if you are going through the detox program.
If you have been experiencing a mental health disorder, either before you started using or because of your substance abuse, you will be given a dual diagnosis. This allows your treatment plan to include proper care for both problems. Your therapist will address your mental health disorder separately from your substance abuse. Behavioral therapy will help you diagnose the triggers that cause you to want to use drugs or alcohol, and your therapist will help you learn how to handle these triggers when they arise after treatment.
Get the Help You Need Today
Detox will always be the fundamental first step of the recovery process. If you are suffering from any kind of substance abuse or alcohol abuse disorder, detox can often be a life-saving choice. Get in contact with us today to learn how medically monitored detox can reduce the withdrawal symptoms while increasing your chances of moving forward in recovery. Call a treatment provider today at 844-903-2111 for more information about detox and rehab options that will work for you.
