The Detox Decision: 10 Questions to Help you Decide on Next Steps

Throughout my time working in treatment, I have met a remarkably high number of people that genuinely believed they could detox themselves at home and achieve long-term sobriety. To my best recollection, exactly one of them was able to achieve sobriety and now has a handful of years in recovery. There is a reason that relapse rates are high. Breaking free of the physical and psychological dependence on drugs or alcohol is an uphill battle. It requires a lot of assistance, a great deal of willingness, and making an informed decision on where to get help with detox. 

At Live Again Detox, we understand the importance of making an educated decision when it comes to deciding if a detox program is right for you. Here are ten essential questions to help you determine if detox is the right next step for you or your loved one.

1. How Severe is My Substance Use?

This is a question that only you can answer. Take a moment to think through your current usage. Are you drinking or taking drugs daily? Multiple times a day? Have you noticed that the amounts and frequency of use are constantly increasing? Do you experience withdrawal symptoms when you go for a long time without using? If you have become physically dependent on a substance, a medical detox program would be safe and beneficial. 

2. Have I Tried to Quit Before?

Have you attempted to quit cold turkey on your own but couldn’t make it past a few days? Relapse rates are incredibly high during the first 3-5 days of sobriety as withdrawal symptoms and cravings are at their peak. If you’ve tried to stop in the past and struggled, you might benefit from a professional detox facility. Our program provides medical supervision, luxury accommodations, and doctor prescribed medications to ease withdrawal symptoms. 

3. Am I Experiencing Withdrawal Symptoms?

If you are actively experiencing withdrawal symptoms or they come on when you stop using, detox is highly suggested. For drugs like alcohol, benzodiazepines, and opioids, a medical detox program is a necessity. These drugs can all have life-threatening detox symptoms including seizures and organ failure. A medical detox program keeps you supervised 24/7 by licensed medical professionals to monitor and treat detox symptoms before they escalate into medical emergencies. 

4. How is My Substance Use Affecting My Health?

Drug and alcohol addiction take their toll on the body. Think through any health problems you have that are linked to your use and consider the medical issues you may not even be aware of. Liver disease, heart problems, respiratory issues, mental health disorders, and viral infections are all realities when someone abuses substances for long enough. Live Again Detox can help mitigate further health complications.

5. Is My Substance Use Impacting My Daily Life?

Is your use infiltrating every aspect of your life? Does it affect your work, relationships, and responsibilities? Inevitably, substance abuse begins to peel away at your ability to go through life in a normal manner. It leads to conflicts, job loss, neglection of important duties, and an overall downward spiral in quality of life. If this is true for you, it might be time to seek help. 

6. Do I Use Substances to Cope with Emotions?

Managing stress, anxiety, depression, or other emotions with drugs and alcohol is a surefire way to end up with an addiction. As you continue to use substances as a coping mechanism, the cycle of dependence develops deeper and deeper until you are unable to stop on your own. At Live Again Detox we can help you break this cycle and address the root causes of emotional distress.

7. Have Friends or Family Expressed Concern?

When you are caught up in the cycle of addiction you can be blind to what is so obvious to everyone else. If loved ones have expressed concern or suggested you seek help, it’s worth considering their perspective. They may be seeing what you cannot. 

8. Am I Ready to Make a Change?

Detox is a big decision; and a scary one. If you’re feeling ready to do something different and have a willingness for change, then you’re ready. We’ll meet you where you’re at and help you walk the path to sobriety and long-term recovery. 

9. Do I Have a Support System?

Having a strong support system can make a world of difference in your recovery journey. Friends, family, and support groups can provide encouragement and accountability. Consider who can support you through this process.

10. Have I Researched My Options?

There are a lot of detox programs available and not all of them are good. Take time to research the detox facilities available to you. Ask questions. Read reviews. Talk with your doctor or other healthcare professionals about their recommendations. You should feel comfortable with the program you choose and it should be the best fit for your personal needs. 

Taking the Next Step

If you answered yes to many of these questions, it might be time to consider a medical detox program. Our Nashville, TN facility offers a safe and supportive environment where you can start your recovery journey. 

Contact us today to learn more about our program and take the first step towards reclaiming your life. Drugs and alcohol don’t have to be the end of your story. You can live again.