10 Things to Keep in Mind When Choosing a Detox Center
Substance use disorder is a complex illness that impacts both the mind and the body. While it is classified as a mental illness, the physical effects need to be treated seriously. This is because the longer a person uses substances, the more their body becomes dependent on the substances in order to function.
For this reason, stopping taking substances in cold turkey can be dangerous. Withdrawal from addictive substances should be carried out in a professional setting, with expert supervision.
Most drug and alcohol rehab centers include detox as part of their process. Some detox centers are operated independently of rehabs. Either way, detox cannot be an afterthought. When choosing a detox treatment center, you need to have a clear idea of what to look out for.
Here are 10 things to keep in mind when choosing a detox center.
1. Medical Expertise
A person's body goes through a lot when withdrawing from substances. Withdrawals can be very painful and distressing and can put the person in danger of serious illness or death. Any detox center you choose should be run under the supervision of medical professionals. While there are some excellent non-medical professionals who have been in the treatment industry for years, doctors can provide certain life-saving procedures that no one else can.
2. Suitable Medications
Although it is counterproductive to some, certain medications can help people withdraw from substances. These medications are either less addictive forms of the key ingredient of the substance or non-addictive drugs that provide the body support and relief. A detox center run under expert guidance will use appropriate medications as part of the treatment, understanding how to find the right balance.
3. Pain Management Plan
There is no denying that withdrawals can be extremely painful. However, that does not mean you just have to grin and bear it. Detox should be treated like any other medical treatment. A good detox provides a pain management plan. This includes any non-addictive substances they might use to alleviate at least some of the pain. No detox will be pain-free, but the pain can be minimized.
4. Affiliated Rehab Centers
Detox should not be done in isolation. It is the start of the rehabilitation process. Many great rehab centers provide medical detox. Some detox centers are affiliated with rehabs, and there will be a space waiting in the rehab for you when you leave like free Massachusetts rehab centers.
5. Health Insurance
Detox and rehab can be expensive. The good news is that most health insurance plans pay for detox and rehab, although there will be deductibles. However, many health insurance companies have a network of providers who they approve. When looking for a detox center, look for places where your insurance is accepted.
6. Take Time Off
In today’s world, remote work is becoming the norm. This has been extremely beneficial during the pandemic and for people who prefer not to be bound by their office’s physical location. However, it has also made it difficult for some to ‘switch off. If you are considering detox and hoping to continue working during the process, you will have to think again. During medical detox, you will have limited capacity to take care of your basic needs, let alone work. This is something you are doing for your health, and it needs to be your sole priority while it happens.
7. Read Reviews
The detox industry is like any other industry. There are good centers and bad centers. Often, the best way of choosing a center is by looking at reviews. Try and get an overview of what the center is like and ask the staff about any concerns that come up. Keep in mind that people can have a terrible time during detox no matter how good the provider is, and some end up blaming the center. This is not to say that you should ignore bad reviews, but look at them in a broad context.
8. Check out The Facilities
Since detox is not pleasant, many participants assume that the facilities will not matter that much. But, while good facilities cannot take away the pain, they can make you more comfortable. Visit the detox centers you are considering going to so that you can check out their facilities. You don’t need to be in the lap of luxury, but a comfortable bed in a comfortable room should be guaranteed.
9. Certification
While having the right documents does not necessarily mean a detox center is good, it does provide some peace of mind that the place is licensed. This should be the bare minimum, but some centers manage to skirt regulations.
10. Location
Finally, the location of a detox center will be important to you. If you want to attend rehab in a picturesque location far from home, choose a rehab with detox in the area that appeals to you. Alternatively, choose a detox center in an appealing area with rehabs nearby. If you would prefer to be close to your loved ones, choose a center in your own city (or in a nearby city if necessary).
Choosing a detox center is one of the most important decisions you'll make at the start of your addiction treatment. Keep the above 10 things in mind to help make the best possible choice.
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