Deciding to get help for drug and alcohol addiction is an essential first step on the long road to recovery. The next thing you must do is figure out your treatment path with the help of licensed specialists. However, the process of purging the body of the toxins that build up from substance abuse may bring serious health risks or even death. A women’s detox center may be the right choice for preparing for a more extended period of treatment for substance abuse. Finding a gender-specific women’s detox center program can mean all the difference to your recovery.
Why You May Need Detox
Long-term substance abuse affects your body and your brain. It may cause you to exhibit destructive behavior or cause physical issues that require medical attention and treatment. Attempting to go through the detox process on your own could cause life-threatening symptoms or lead to relapse.
Every withdrawal experience is unique. Attending drug and alcohol detox allows you to have medical professionals on standby 24/7 to treat your uncomfortable withdrawal symptoms and help you get through detox safely.
Choosing the Right Women’s Detox Center Program
Picking the right women’s detox center program means accounting for your substance of choice and the severity of your addiction. Severe cases often benefit from full supervision at a facility equipped to provide clients with proper monitoring of withdrawal symptoms. The structure of the process also works well in preparing you for a longer stay in an inpatient rehabilitation program.
Look for a detox program equipped to deal with your specific issues. They should have a staff equipped to handle the uniqueness of how withdrawal works when it comes to different substances. For example, women trying to wean themselves off heroin will likely have different concerns from those going through the alcohol withdrawal process.
How a Detox Program Typically Works
Make sure you understand the rules and regulations of addiction treatment center programs before admission. There may be restrictions on things like cell phone use or family visitation. You should also make sure the facility can accommodate any unique dietary concerns.
Most detox programs guide clients through an intake process, where you meet the therapist who will be involved with your recovery. They’ll ask questions about your history of substance abuse. It’s best to be 100 percent honest when answering questions. There is no judgment at a detox center. Being open about your past allows the specialists at the facility to chart the best course of treatment for your specific issues.
Medication Options for Detox
Some women’s detox center programs offer clients the option of taking medication to reduce painful and often uncomfortable withdrawal symptoms. That depends on the risks you may experience during the process and whether you may experience complications while going through withdrawal.
The medication options offered may vary depending on your substance of choice and the severity of your withdrawal. Some options typically offered for medically assisted withdrawal include:
- Benzodiazepines — Benzodiazepines may be beneficial for those going through alcohol detox. It reduces the potential of experiencing withdrawal symptoms like seizures and severe anxiety.
- Methadone — Methadone is a medication used in treating opioid addiction. It stabilizes those going through withdrawal from heroin or other opioids.
- Buprenorphine — Buprenorphine is another medication used in treating those going through opioid withdrawal.
Any medications used during the detox process are closely monitored to reduce further addiction issues.
Going Forward with Addiction Treatment
Going through a women’s detox center program doesn’t mean you’ve received sufficient addiction treatment. Most detox programs help clients transition to long-term care to receive more comprehensive treatment. Long-term addiction treatment and therapy increase your chances of remaining sober once you’ve completed your detox program.