Checking into a detox facility will save your life. When you need to beat addiction, it’s important to know what steps you have to take. This guide will go over the seven ‘Do’s’ and three ‘Don’ts’ that you will need to know about.
This guide will be your roadmap towards the beginning of a new life. Detoxing is part of the treatment process that will take anywhere from 7 to 10 days (depending on the person and their situation). A psychological evaluation will be done prior to the detox process.
Stick with this list of ‘Do’s’ and ‘Don’ts’ and you’ll be able to get through the process with less stress and frustration.
Let’s get started.
Table of Contents
“Do’s”
Research different detox programs to find the best one
It’s important to do your research when it comes to what detox programs are available. The best one will be based on your personal needs. Not everyone will be a fit for one detox program or another.
It will depend on several factors. You may be dealing with a more severe addiction. In this case, you will need to do an inpatient detox.
Consider the duration of a detox program
The duration of a detox program will vary on several factors. Regardless, it is important to plan ahead. Especially when it comes to the amount of time you’ll miss work.
It’s also a good idea to make plans on who will handle your household duties while you’re away. If you live alone, you can designate someone to check on your residence. They can bring in the mail, check to see if the place is secure, or any tasks you request done.
Delegate these tasks to someone you can trust (preferably a family member). Once you have a good idea of how much time you’ll be away for, the planning part can be easy.
Make a list of any medications or supplements you are taking
This is a key thing to do. You want to inform the facility’s staff about the kind of medications and supplements you are taking. Most of the time, your medications will be approved (unless they say otherwise).
If you are worried about what medications or supplements are allowed or not, ask the facility staff. It may also be a good idea to have your doctor that prescribes the prescription to remain in regular contact with the detox staff.
Ask about qualifications and experience of the staff
You want to be in the best hands. Especially when you’re detoxing for the next week or so. These days will be the most vital of your treatment process.
The more experienced and qualified your staff are, the better you’ll feel. You’ll want someone who will take the best care of you. Even on days when things tend to be rough due to withdrawal symptoms.
Having qualified and experienced experts will put you at a peace of mind. You’ll know that you’ll be able to get the help you need when requested. Ask as many questions as you need about the staff and what they are able to do for you.
Learn about the type of support and therapy they offer
The right kind of support and therapy will be key during the detox process. When searching for a facility, feel free to ask questions about what’s available. If the key support and therapy elements fit your needs and preferences, it will be an easier choice for you to choose a detox facility.
Make arrangements for transportation
Regardless if it’s an inpatient or outpatient detox, it’s important to make arrangements for transportation. During this process, the drugs will likely be in your system. You may still be in violation of operating under the influence in your jurisdiction.
It’s important to make sure you have a reliable, designated driver that will get you to and from the facility when needed.
Prepare for any mental and physical challenges
The mental and physical challenges of detox will be tough. You might be dealing with serious withdrawal symptoms. It might be a good idea to consider an inpatient detox facility as you will be close to immediate medical attention.
In a moment, we will explain why inpatient detox will be the best option going forward.
“Don’ts”
Don’t detox alone
Detoxing by yourself and at home will be the riskiest things you’ll ever do. So much so, that you may risk dealing with serious, if not, fatal consequences. You will need to be close to medical help when the need arises.
You never know if and when the withdrawal symptoms will appear. Likewise, you might never know how severe they can get until they happen. Don’t risk in-home detox or doing it alone.
Leave out information about pre-existing medical conditions
A treatment procedure can go wrong. No one will know why until after the fact. If you have any pre-existing medical conditions, you must inform the facility staff.
This will give the medical staff an idea of how they will approach your treatment. This includes any medications or other treatments they will need to administer. The more they know about your medical conditions, the better they’ll design a treatment plan for you.
Arrive with a lot of personal belongings
A detox facility is not a long-term housing situation. You will be here for at least a week and a half at most. There is no need to bring a lot of personal belongings with you.
Your personal belongings should include a change of clothes (at least a week’s worth). Other personal belongings include your medication, a notebook, pen, or any approved items. If you are unsure of what you can or cannot bring, ask the facility staff.
It’s important that you leave your phone or electronic devices at home. Your full attention will be needed for the purpose of your treatment. Such devices will expose you to external factors that may lead to challenges and obstacles for your treatment process.
The last thing you need is stress because of what you’ve seen on social media.
