Why Detox Centers Are Important

There are many cases where people are so heavily focused on choosing the right rehabilitation program that they forget what is often a crucial first step – detoxification. Detox centers are often charged with a scientifically and biologically challenging task of helping individuals to safely and effectively withdraw from whatever chemicals they are dependent on with as few symptoms as possible.

The days of simply letting people “sleep it off” are few and far between, especially with the percentage of addicts who are combining several substances. There is also the onslaught of many more prescription drugs being thrown into the mix as well as newer designer synthetic drugs hitting the market such as bath salts, and more.

Not only are there physically threatening withdrawal symptoms to many drugs, such as aches, pains, sweats, chills, seizures, and more, but there are also an increasing number of mental side effects as well. Some of these things can include paranoia, delusions or hallucinations, anxiety and even dissociative behavior and psychotic breaks.

There are also the factors that one or more withdrawal symptoms can be immediate while others may be delayed, just like some are much more acute while others are less severe but linger on for more time. All of this combines to be a tricky situation, and is why choosing the right detox center can be just as important as the right rehabilitation program. Sometimes both services can be offered in the same facility, but this is rarely the case. Many treatment programs have close relationships with area detox centers that are mutually beneficial for client referrals.

If the detoxification process isn’t properly addressed then at best it will still be very uncomfortable, and at worst it could result in death. Therefore locating detox centers that are more individually oriented, rather than just following cookie cutter protocols, is going to offer you a better chance at successfully withdrawing. Such places typically strive to use the minimum necessary amounts of medications to produce the desired results, without weaning off too fast or prolonging the process.

Some of the more advanced medical detox facilities also seek to use natural building blocks during the withdrawal process. These could be anything from simple nutrition and supplements, to using specialized IV drips containing vitamins, minerals, amino acids, and more. In addition to the medications used, these additives can help begin to repair internal damaged caused by the previous substances that were being abused.

So remember, not all detox centers are the same. It is worth your effort to question the methods used at any particular clinic and try to find one that is going to address each person individually with the maximum comfort and minimum risk.