You’re tired of living with addiction. You’re ready to change things and have decided to start the process by going to a Florida detox center. Now you have a whole new set of questions. What should you bring? What is the first day of intake like? Learning these details now will make the transition to life in treatment easier.
Most detox centers in Florida follow a similar process when you check in. You’ll be calmer if you know what to expect on that first day. Always remind yourself that recovery is a gift you’re giving yourself.
What Is Intake Like at a Detox Center in Florida?
Every detox center is different, but the majority follow a similar procedure to get you checked in and settled. Before you head out, keep these pointers in mind.
- Medically-supervised detox is a safe, comfortable way to withdraw from drugs or alcohol. You won’t get sick or have to endure any withdrawal symptoms.
- Getting drugs or alcohol out of your system is the first step to your new, sober life.
- The counselors are there to help you. When you start to feel nervous or shaky, talk to them. They’ve walked many an addict and alcoholic through their first-day fears.
What to Expect on Your First Day
When you first show up at the center, you’ll be greeted and welcomed. An intake counselor will go over your paperwork to make sure that everything is in place.
You should have:
- Your insurance card and related paperwork.
- Your driver’s license or other identification.
- A list of medications that are currently prescribed to you by a doctor.
- Paperwork regarding any grants or government assistance you’re receiving.
- Copy of any payment plan agreement that you signed.
- Credit or debit card.
If you’re going into inpatient rehab, you’ll be shown to your room, where a counselor unpacks your bags to make sure you haven’t carried in any alcohol, drugs or other prohibited items. You probably received a list of items that you can’t bring to the detox center. This includes:
- Drugs or alcohol, including alcohol in personal care products.
- Pornography or other offensive materials.
- Playing cards or items related to gambling.
- Clothing or other items that promote drinking or drug use.
- Medications or supplements that are not in sealed bottles.
During the first day, you’ll also meet with the medical staff. They’ll check you for any medical problems that need immediate attention. If you are undergoing medically-supervised detox or have been referred for medical treatment, you’ll be given a day and time for that.
Other Types of Intake
If you’re checking into a sober living home or halfway house, the intake process is similar. Your bags will be checked for prohibited substances. You’ll meet with an addictions counselor to go over your goals and expectations. You’ll also be given the house rules and your schedule of required meetings.
If you’re attending outpatient treatment, you obviously won’t have any bags to check. Remember that during outpatient treatment, just as in inpatient rehab, you will have regular, random drug tests. You’ll also have a set schedule of meetings and sessions that you’re required to attend.
What Type of Schedule Will You Have?
Typically, your daily schedule at an inpatient rehab, outpatient center or sober living home will include the following:
- Individual and group counseling sessions.
- Attendance at 12-step meetings.
- Support group meetings.
- Recreational and social activities.
- Mealtimes.
- Visiting hours.
What is Medical Detox Like?
In many rehab centers, the first part of your treatment is medical detox.
Be prepared to spend the might at the detox clinic. The time required to detox depends on several factors including the type of substance you’re addicted to and the amount in your system.
- Medical detox allows your body to get rid of drugs and alcohol without the agony of withdrawal.
- Detox will make you feel calm and comfortable.
- Your detox is done in a private room in a medical setting.
- Your withdrawal is monitored by specially-trained doctors and nurses.
Find the Right Detox Center in Florida
Going into a Florida detox is the best decision you can make for yourself and your family. If you’re ready to build a new life free from addiction, get started by calling our counselors anytime at 844-903-2111.
