Substance use disorder is a dangerous and deadly problem in the United States. In fact, drug overdose killed more than 64,000 people in 2016. Meanwhile, millions more have an addiction but don’t get help. Addiction treatment is the only way to overcome drug abuse and addiction, and it starts with medical substance abuse detox programs.

Why Detox Is Important

Clinical staff talking to new client about Detox ServicesDetox involves allowing the body to adjust to functioning without drugs. During this process, it naturally eliminates the toxins that drugs leave behind. Anyone who develops tolerance, dependence or addiction must start treatment with supervised detox. They need medical attention to prevent potentially life-threatening withdrawal symptoms and complications such as:

  • Delirium tremens
  • Hallucinations
  • Muscle aches
  • Strong cravings
  • Dehydration
  • Heart attack or stroke
  • Coma or death

The extent of withdrawal symptoms depends on the drug taken. Alcohol and benzodiazepine withdrawal are particularly dangerous. The amount and frequency of use also contribute. Other factors that impact the process include age and overall health.

An Array of Substance Abuse Detox Programs

Medical detox makes the withdrawal process more comfortable and safer through the use of medication-assisted treatment and therapy. These services can occur in an inpatient or outpatient treatment setting.

People who have a high risk for severe symptoms and complications should seek inpatient detox. The reason is that it provides 24-hour monitoring by a team of doctors and nurses. The staff members record vitals and give medications to reduce the severity of symptoms. They can also prevent complications and ensure that patients don’t use drugs during treatment.

Outpatient detox services are more suitable for those who have mild symptoms and supportive living environments. Although they may still receive medication for withdrawal symptoms, they don’t get 24-hour supervision. That leaves them vulnerable to using drugs again before they complete treatment, which could have deadly consequences.

Medication

Many people try to stop using drugs but can’t because of the withdrawal symptoms. Detox services include medications for anxiety, depression, nausea, and vomiting. Seizure medication is also available for those who need it.

A detox center may administer or prescribe medicines that treat specific substance use disorders too. Maintenance therapy for alcohol addiction, for example, might include Antabuse, Campral or Vivitrol. For heroin and other opioids, a detox center might use methadone, Suboxone or Vivitrol. These medicines curb cravings, relieve withdrawal symptoms or make people nauseous if they try to use again.

Therapy

Although most people think that therapy doesn’t start until they enter rehab, detox services at Serenity House Detox & Recovery include counseling. Therapy begins when clients are stable enough to participate and focus.

A detox center can use a range of counseling techniques, including behavioral and cognitive therapies. These are the most common because they help people understand the source of their behavior. They also help clients learn and develop skills to cope in high-stress situations to avoid relapse.

Holistic or experiential therapy has grown in popularity as a detox treatment. It uses hands-on activities to help people resolve the underlying problems that led to their drug use. Some examples include art, music and yoga therapies. In a comfortable, informal environment, they encourage people to overcome certain emotions or traumas.

Serenity House Detox & Recovery Offers Affordable, Quality Detox

You can put an end to substance abuse with the right treatment. Serenity House Detox & Recovery has facilities in Fort Lauderdale and Jupiter. Having multiple facilities allows us to help as many people as possible. Our staff also has the training to offer detox programs for a range of substance use disorders, including:

To ensure that you get quality treatment, Serenity House Detox & Recovery will tailor a program according to your needs. We use many therapy techniques and even offer gender-specific care. The goal of our detox center programs in Florida is to empower you to change your life for the better.

Don’t become a tragic drug-related statistic. Find out how substance abuse detox programs in Florida can help you rebuild your life without drugs. Call Serenity House Detox & Recovery today at 866-294-5306.