A detox program can be the first step in the recovery process for an alcoholic or person addicted to drugs. It is important to understand that after a person goes through detoxification, they will need follow-up treatment.  This generally includes rehabilitation of some kind. They will likely need to enroll in either a drug or alcohol rehab program. This could be either inpatient or outpatient treatment.

Often times, individuals that have a very severe addiction will need to go through a detox program, though this is not always the case.  Certain drugs are very dangerous for individuals to simply stop using. Therefore, they may need to enter a detox program and receive special medications to help them wean off of a particular drug safely.

A medically supervised detox program is sometimes necessary and mandated depending on the type of drug used or the amount of alcohol a person has drank.  A person with a long history of alcohol abuse or addiction may require admission to a medically based detox program. 

As stated above, detox is often the first step to sobriety. It is important because it helps get rid of the residual amounts of drugs and/or alcohol in a person’s system.  Getting these chemicals out of one’s body gets them ready for the next part of the recovery process. 

There are several types of detox programs.  They include outpatient, inpatient and ultra-rapid. The type most recommended is a medically supervised residential program.  That is because these types of programs make sure that an individual is looked after 24 hours a day. If there are any problems they can be addressed right away.

A medically supervised detox program is much safer and should help ease any anxiety an addict or their family and friends may have. A medically based and supervised detox program generally has to be certified or accredited by a governing body in the particular state that it is based. The physicians employed at these facilities often have to be certified in order to administer certain drugs.  This is extremely helpful because there can be dangerous psychological and physical symptoms that occur which a physician would be able to best handle.

There are also other services offered at some detox programs. Some centers may offer counseling and group support programs. This allows the individual to move seamlessly from one part of the recovery process to the next. For example, after a person has successfully made it through detox, they can begin counseling.

It is not necessary for everyone to enter a detox program. However, it can be very beneficial and even necessary for certain individuals.  If you are unsure whether or not your drug or alcohol addiction warrants a medically supervised and based detox program, it’s a good idea to talk to a few rehab centers.  They will be able to give you some good advice. You may also want to consult your physician.