Drug and Alcohol Detox

What is Medical Detox?

Medical detox, also known as medically supervised detox, is a process that helps individuals safely withdraw from substances such as alcohol, opioids, and other drugs. It is a crucial step in the recovery process, as it allows individuals to overcome physical dependence on substances and prepares them for further treatment.

At South Shores Recovery, our medically supervised detox programs are designed to provide a safe and supportive environment where individuals can begin their journey to recovery.

Medical detox involves the use of medical interventions to manage withdrawal symptoms and ensure the safety and comfort of the individual. This process is essential for those experiencing severe alcohol withdrawal, alcohol withdrawal syndrome, or withdrawal from other substances, as it helps to mitigate the risks associated with sudden cessation.

By providing comprehensive care and support, medical detox lays the foundation for successful addiction treatment and long-term recovery.

Our Approach to Medically Supervised Drug and Alcohol Detox

South Shores Detox & Treatment understands that addiction to drugs and alcohol is an illness that has its roots in altered brain functioning and structure. This is characterized by the individual who, having crossed over from recreational use into addiction, no longer has the ability to stop himself from the dangers of “using”.

Such individuals sadly continue in their addiction even though “hospitals, institutions & death” are the eventual results for them. Drug detox is a crucial first step in this process, requiring medical supervision to manage withdrawal symptoms safely.

Addiction has been attributed to environmental, genetic and developmental factors making it an extremely difficult illness to treat, hence why so many people struggle through multiple relapses until they finally “get it”, if they get it at all. But at South Shores we do not despair, we have seen, as well have been the most hopeless cases recover from a seemingly hopeless state of mind.

We do this through a multi-prong attack that sees each guest receive a therapeutic, experiential & communal treatment that helps move the addict from a war zone to a place of healing. Treatment centers play a vital role in ensuring that detox and recovery processes are safe and effective, providing the necessary psychological support and long-term treatment plans.

What is a Detox?

Though there are several steps in finding full recovery from drug and alcohol addiction none is more important than the first step of treatment known as Detoxification or Detox. This is the beginning of the journey of the guest and a vital step in seeing the individual get the opportunity to accept his/her treatment. The goal of this phase is returning the guests body to its prior state of being before being physically addicted to drugs or alcohol.

If this step is not taken fully and safely then the guest never gets the opportunity to be fully clean (or clear) to realize their treatment. South Shores is committed to helping those under our care to detox completely so that they can be fully present for the recovery process to begin and endure.

The drug and alcohol detox process is a personalized treatment approach tailored to individual needs, emphasizing its role as the initial stage in recovery from substance use disorders.

Detoxification is different for each type of substance. Below are some facts about various types of detoxification and how South Shores Recovery works with you to safely rid your body of these substances.

The Detox Process

The detox process typically involves three stages: evaluation, stabilization, and preparing entry into treatment. Each stage is carefully designed to address the unique needs of the individual and ensure a smooth transition into further treatment.

Evaluation

During the evaluation stage, medical professionals assess the individual’s physical and mental health to determine the best course of treatment. This comprehensive assessment includes:

• Conducting a thorough medical history and physical examination

• Assessing the individual’s substance use history and patterns

• Evaluating the individual’s mental health and potential co-occurring disorders

• Identifying any potential health risks or complications

This stage is crucial for developing a personalized detox plan that addresses the specific needs and challenges of the individual.

Stabilization

The stabilization stage involves using medications and other interventions to manage withdrawal symptoms and stabilize the individual’s physical and mental health. This may include:

• Administering medications to relieve symptoms such as anxiety, insomnia, and nausea

• Providing hydration and nutrition to prevent dehydration and malnutrition

• Monitoring the individual’s vital signs and adjusting treatment as needed

• Addressing any co-occurring medical or mental health conditions

Stabilization is a critical phase in the detox process, as it helps to ensure the individual’s safety and comfort while managing the physical and psychological effects of withdrawal.

Preparing Entry Into Treatment

The final stage of the detox process involves preparing the individual for entry into a treatment program. This may include:

• Educating the individual about the treatment process and what to expect

• Helping the individual set goals and develop a treatment plan

• Providing support and encouragement to help the individual stay motivated and engaged in the recovery process

• Facilitating the transition to a treatment program, such as inpatient or outpatient rehab

By preparing individuals for the next steps in their recovery journey, this stage helps to ensure a seamless transition into comprehensive addiction treatment.

Medical detox is an essential step in the recovery process, as it allows individuals to safely withdraw from substances and prepares them for further treatment. By providing a safe and supportive environment, medical detox can help individuals overcome physical dependence on substances and achieve long-term recovery.