Detoxification, or detox, is an essential step in your addiction recovery process. When you use drugs or alcohol, toxins accumulate and your body builds a tolerance to the substance. Stopping drug or alcohol use triggers withdrawal — a period in which your body cleanses itself of toxins.
After detox, you don’t have drugs or alcohol remaining in your system and you can better focus on the next step of your recovery plan. Recovering from addiction isn’t easy, but Headrick Medical Center offers addiction treatment that fits you.
Daniel J. Headrick, MD, and our team are here to help you start your recovery journey with a comprehensive treatment plan that includes detoxification and medication-assisted therapy.
Some people are great candidates for outpatient detox. It’s a convenient option if you want to overcome addiction but you can’t step away from your daily life to participate in an inpatient detox program.
At-home detox includes many of the elements of inpatient programs but is a more convenient option because you can keep living at home. Here are a few tips for preparing for your at-home detox.
1. Stock your kitchen
Both substance abuse and detoxification are hard on your body. People struggling with addiction often don’t get the nutrients their bodies need, leaving their nutritional resources depleted and energy levels low.
Eating a healthy diet can make detox easier because it replenishes your body naturally. Plan ahead before you start your outpatient detox program. Stock your refrigerator and pantry with healthy foods and consider making meals ahead of time. Be sure to have plenty of water on hand as well.
2. Consider work and other responsibilities
Outpatient detox can be a more convenient option than inpatient programs because you stay at home during treatment, but that doesn’t mean you can continue living exactly the way you were before.
Patients in outpatient detox can continue attending work or school, but keep in mind that you may need to attend appointments, therapy sessions, and drug screenings several times a week. Take time before you start detox to think about whether you’ll need to request time off or make other arrangements so you can focus on your recovery.
3. Build a strong support network
At-home detox requires significant dedication since you’re in your home environment with all your regular responsibilities while also working toward recovery. Before you start detox, build a network of people you can trust to support you in the process.
Building a healthy support network of family and friends who want you to succeed is crucial for long-term recovery whether you participate in at-home or inpatient detox. Don’t be afraid to ask loved ones for help during detox and ask them to hold you accountable.
4. Keep an open mind
You’ll sign a commitment at the start of your at-home detox in which you agree not to abuse medications and other substances during the program. During detox, our team may prescribe medication, counseling, or other therapies designed to help you heal from substance abuse and it’s important to trust the process.
Going through detox and withdrawal can be uncomfortable, and it’s not uncommon to experience feelings of anger, discomfort, and depression. Sharing your concerns and feelings with our team, trusted friends, or others who are going through recovery can help you maintain focus and get through the more difficult times.
5. Learn about the process
Starting detox can be scary, simply because there are so many unknowns. Everyone’s needs are different when it comes to detoxification, so ask our team about what you can expect during the process to help yourself feel more prepared.
If Dr. Headrick determines that you’re a good candidate for at-home detox, he talks with you about what your recovery plan looks like. Asking questions about withdrawal, detoxing, and what happens after detox can make you feel empowered to start the process.
Want to find out if at-home detox is a good option for you? Book a consultation online or call our office at 949-220-2412 to get started today.
