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How to Begin a Drug Detox Program

If you need treatment for drug or alcohol addiction, there's no time to waste. Here's what you need to know about how to begin a drug detox program.

Marie Donohue

Sep 12, 2022

We all know that substance abuse is a problem in the US, yet many are still ashamed of their problems. You’re far alone. Believe it or not, there are over 14,000 rehab centers across the United States, and many are becoming overcrowded.

However, these programs aren’t all the same. Choosing and entering the right program is essential for a safe and successful recovery. Let’s talk about how to begin a drug detox program.

What to Expect From a Drug Detox Program

No two programs are the same, but there are common themes you can expect. First, it’s important to understand that there’s nothing to fear. Detox programs are the safest treatment programs for early recovery, as they will help prevent relapse or potential complications during the most sensitive period of recovery.

A typical drug detox program seeks to monitor and assist patients through the detoxing stage. Typically, this period lasts around two weeks, but symptoms peak after 3-4 days for most substances. For this reason, detox programs can last anywhere from 3 days to 2 weeks.

However, some detox programs are part of a larger rehab program. In this case, the detox assistance will likely last for the typical 3 to 14 days, but you will also have follow-up care for the remainder of your stay. The average rehab stay is typically between 30 and 60 days.

Knowing When It’s Time

If you or a loved one has abused drugs frequently for more than 30 days, professional detox services are essential. It’s often tempting to try to “go it alone” or to attend meetings to start, but detox is a serious commitment fraught with complications.

Moreover, if you have thought about quitting or tried to quit but couldn’t, it’s time for treatment. As a rule of thumb, if you believe it’s time to find treatment, it generally is. The ability to recognize these issues and behaviors in yourself is an important skill, and it’s the first step toward recovery. Let’s talk about the next steps.

How to Choose the Right Program

Drug detox programs may include specific services, amenities, or styles that you need. Every patient has different needs, so if you have any special needs for housing, religious compliance, or anything else, find a program that can satisfy these. From there, it’s important to choose the type of treatment that’s best for you.

Remember to ensure that the program has medical access. Some patients will require medication-assisted detoxification, and others may experience medical complications. If that’s the case, it’s important to have medical staff available on-site.

Inpatient Treatment

Inpatient treatment programs are the best for early recovery, and it’s what you typically think of when you hear the word “rehab.” You will live in the facility for a designated period and receive 24-hour access to medical oversight and other resources.

The reason this is best for early recovery is that you will live in a controlled, substance-free environment throughout your stay. Early recovery, especially detox, is the most sensitive period of your journey.

Having medical oversight around the clock is also important for safety. Detoxing from certain drugs can cause serious health complications, including death in extreme cases. However, any treatment is better than no treatment.

Outpatient Treatment

Generally, we wouldn’t recommend outpatient treatment during the detox stage unless it’s an intensive outpatient program (IOP) or patrial-hospitalization program (PHP). Outpatient programs are an excellent tool for maintaining abstinence after early recovery. However, during detox, there are too many potential complications.

Still, some people do not have the luxury to leave work for an extended period, and some may have important family obligations. If you cannot leave home for any reason, then your best solution is an intensive outpatient program.