Over 45 million people met the DSM-5 criteria for having a substance use disorder last year. That’s over 15% of the total United States population! It should come as no surprise that substance abuse and addiction are a problem in this country and every day people are looking for how to best help their loved ones struggling with drug or alcohol abuse. For many, the path to recovery starts with detox. However, not all detox programs are created equal, and choosing the right one can make all the difference in achieving long-term sobriety and a return to wellness.
What is Detox?
Detox is short for detoxification which means, “a set of interventions aimed at managing acute intoxication and withdrawal. It denotes a clearing of toxins from the body of the patient who is acutely intoxicated and/or dependent on substances of abuse.” In a medical detox program this management is carried out under the direct supervision of medical professionals. When someone has been using drugs or alcohol consistently, their body becomes dependent on the substances to function normally. Abrupt cessation can lead to withdrawal symptoms, which can range from mild discomfort to severe and potentially life-threatening complications.
The Importance of Medical Detox Facilities
While detoxing on your own is possible, it is extremely dangerous and the chances of achieving long-term sobriety this way are slim. It cannot be stressed enough that detox can be a complex and potentially life-threatening process; made even more so for those with a history of heavy use or underlying medical conditions. Medical detox facilities offer a safe and supportive environment where individuals can undergo detoxification under the care of trained medical professionals who can assist easing withdrawal symptoms and are prepared in the case of a medical emergency.
What to Look For When Choosing a Detox Program
1. Are the Facility & Staff Accredited and Licensed?
The first thing you want to find out when researching a detox program is whether they are licensed and accredited. Organizations like The Joint Commission (JCO) or The Commission on Accreditation of Rehabilitation Facilities (CARF) give their seal of approval to facilities that meet or exceed industry standards for safety and quality of care. Also inquire about state or local licenses which the program may have. Ask about staff licensing and don’t be afraid to require proof of credentials before making a decision to trust your loved one to a program’s care. Each member of the Live Again medical team is specifically trained in medically managed detox protocols and have years of experience.
2. What Medical Services are Available?
A successful detox might require a range of medical interventions to manage various withdrawal symptoms or complications. To ensure the safety and comfort of your loved one, ask about the specific medical services offered by the detox program. These services might include 24/7 medical supervision, medication management for withdrawal symptoms, onsite emergency care, and more. If your loved one requires a specific service, ask if it is or can be provided.
3. Are There Mental Health Services Available?
It is not uncommon for people struggling with substance abuse to have co-occurring disorders such as depression, anxiety, and trauma. These mental health issues can become exacerbated during detox so it’s crucial to select a program that knows what to look for and is properly prepared to handle the onset of co-occurring mental health health disorders. We take our commitment to mental health seriously at Live Again Detox which is why all of our nursing staff have mental health training.
4. What is the Staff-to-Patient Ratio?
A detox facility is not the place where you want to fall through the cracks. The attention and personalized care provided in a detox program can have a profound impact on the individual’s experience, outcome, and willingness to recover. At Live Again Detox we maintain a 1:5 staff to patient ratio to ensure attention to detail. Ask how many staff there are to patients to ensure that your loved one will be seen, heard, and cared for to the level they deserve.
5. What is Their Detox Protocol?
Detox protocols depend on the substance being used as well as individual factors like severity of addiction and medical history. Talk with the detox program you are considering about what their protocols are for different drugs. Talk with them about the specific needs of your loved one and ask them how they would tailor their approach to ensure safety and comfort.
6. What Aftercare Support is Available?
The detox process is the first step on the path to recovery and having ongoing support is critical to preventing relapse and maintaining early sobriety. Ask about aftercare services, case management, and whether the staff can help place your loved one in a lower level of care to continue their treatment should they desire it. At a bare minimum ask them if they will help set up outpatient programs, sober living arrangements, support groups, or relapse prevention planning. Aftercare provides support and accountability which can make the difference between long-term recovery and short-term sobriety.
Got Questions?
We believe that detox facilities should be held to the highest standards of safety and care and that includes ourselves. If you or a loved one is seeking detox, give Live Again Detox a call today. Our admissions team would love the privilege to talk to you about our services, answer any questions, and walk you through a personalized treatment plan for your detox needs. Call us today.
Contact Us
We’re here to support you on your journey to a healthier, happier life. Reach out to us via phone, email, or our online contact form today.
