When it is clear that drug use or alcohol abuse is a problem, the natural inclination is to assume that the best way to address the issue is simply to stop using all substances. This impulse is correct; abstinence is the best policy in the face of addiction. However, it is far easier said than done. Addiction is not a willpower issue, thus it cannot be effectively treated with a mental – or emotional – decision to stop. In fact, attempting an at-home detox in this manner is not only ineffective when drug dependence is the issue, but it can be a dangerous choice, as well.
Some of the risks of an at-home detox include:
A professional medical detox offers patients a wide range of supportive assistance including medical and psychiatric care that can prevent or protect against the issues listed above. There is no guarantee that a detox in any context will not result in things like medical complications or mental health issues but when these problems occur at a detox program, patients have access to the treatment they need to manage these issues safely. Medical and psychiatric professionals are standing by to monitor patients from the moment that they enter the program, providing medication and stabilization as needed initially and throughout the process of detox.
Also, the risk of relapse at a professional detox is far lower than when patients attempt an at-home detox. As long as patients opt to stay in the program, they should be able to avoid relapse and thus avoid possible overdose or other medical emergencies that would result.
Additionally, the therapeutic support of the substance abuse treatment specialists at the detox program and the peer support of other patients who are going through the same thing make choosing a professional detox the best possible option for recovery. There’s simply no substitute for the comprehensive, around-the-clock care provided by specialists or the ongoing support of likeminded peers.
Learn more about the benefits of professional detox from addictive substances when you contact us at the phone number listed above today. We can also connect you to a dual diagnosis treatment program that can address your addiction and any co-occurring mental health issues. Call now.
Integrated Treatment of Substance Abuse & Mental Illness