Pursuing recovery for the first time after drugs or alcohol have affected your life can feel very difficult. But no matter what, detox is the first crucial step in healing. Taking part in detox care starts you on the path to becoming drug-free and supports your recovery for years to come. Anyone struggling with substance use should understand the detox process.
At DeLand Treatment Solutions, we offer medically supervised drug detox programs designed to support your body and mind through withdrawal safely and effectively. In this blog, we’ll describe what detox is, how long it takes, what the process looks like, and what you can expect at a professional drug detox facility.
What is Detoxification?
Detox involves clearing drugs or alcohol from your body. When people are physically dependent, their brain and body adjust to having that substance. Over time, they often need more of the drug just to feel “normal.” If the substance is suddenly taken away, a person may experience uncomfortable and even dangerous withdrawal symptoms.
Detox isn’t just about removing toxins, it’s also about managing those symptoms safely. Detox is typically the first phase in addiction treatment, followed by therapy and behavioral health services.
There are several types of drug detox programs:
- Medical detox: Recommended for those addicted to opioids, alcohol, or benzodiazepines. This is supervised by healthcare professionals.
- Inpatient detox: Provides 24/7 care in a structured environment.
- Outpatient detox: Allows patients to detox at home under supervision, best for those with milder symptoms.
The primary goal of detox is to safely eliminate alcohol or drugs from the body. Without detox, other forms of treatment may not work effectively because the substance continues to affect the brain and body.
How Long Does Detox Take?
The duration of detox depends on several factors, including:
- The substance used
- Duration and intensity of use
- Overall physical and mental health
- Age, weight, and metabolism
General detox timelines:
- Opioids (heroin, oxycodone): 5–10 days
- Alcohol: 5–7 days
- Benzodiazepines (Xanax, Valium): 10–14 days or longer
- Stimulants (cocaine, methamphetamine): 3–7 days
- Marijuana: Symptoms are typically mild and last a few days to a week
Everyone’s experience is different. The length and intensity of detox may vary depending on substance use history and individual health.
During rehab, drug tests may be performed to monitor progress and determine the next steps in treatment.
The Process of Detoxification
Detox typically involves three phases: evaluation, stabilization, and preparation for treatment.
1. Evaluation
In this stage, the medical team assesses:
- Substances used
- Duration of use
- Physical and mental health
- Co-occurring conditions
- Risk of severe withdrawal symptoms
Lab tests, including detox drug screenings, help determine substance levels in the body. Based on this information, a customized detox plan is created.
2. Stabilization
Stabilization ensures the patient is medically and emotionally stable. Providers may administer medications and supportive care to minimize withdrawal symptoms and prevent complications.
Examples include:
- Benzodiazepines for alcohol withdrawal
- Clonidine to ease opioid withdrawal
- Anti-nausea and sleep medications to improve comfort
Nutrition, hydration, and rest also play a key role. Emotional support from nurses or counselors helps patients stay focused and calm.
3. Preparation for Treatment
Detox alone isn’t enough to treat addiction. Once the body is cleared of substances, the next step is transitioning into therapy and long-term care.
This includes:
- Meeting with counselors or therapists
- Setting goals for continued recovery
- Developing a treatment plan for lasting wellness
Transitioning immediately into treatment is essential. Those who leave detox without follow-up care are at a higher risk of relapse. At DeLand Treatment Solutions, we guide every client from detox into comprehensive treatment to support lasting recovery.
What to Expect During Detox in a Rehab Facility
If you’ve never been through detox, you may wonder what the experience is like. Here’s what you can expect:
1. A Safe and Monitored Environment
Patients detox in a calm, clinically supervised setting. Medical staff monitor vital signs regularly and are available around the clock for support and emergency care.
2. Medication and Symptom Management
When withdrawal begins, medications are given to reduce discomfort and prevent serious issues like seizures or delirium tremors. This medical support is why supervised detox is far safer than detoxing at home.
3. Emotional Support
Detox can be emotionally intense. Many experience fear, shame, anxiety, or depression. Compassionate counselors are available to provide individual and group support even during detox.
4. Nutritional Support
Substance use often disrupts diet and nutrition. A healthy, balanced diet, hydration, and supplements may be part of your recovery plan to rebuild strength.
5. Drug-Free Environment
Professional detox facilities are free from drugs and triggers. Being in a secure, supportive environment helps your body and mind focus fully on recovery.
6. Detox Drink Myths
Many people try drug detox drinks or products found online or in stores. While some may help flush toxins short-term, they do not address addiction or prevent withdrawal. Relying on these products can be unsafe and ineffective. The safest option is supervised detox from professionals.
Start Your Journey with DeLand Treatment Solutions
Detoxing is the essential first step toward reclaiming your life. At DeLand Treatment Solutions, we tailor your detox plan to your needs so you can begin the journey to recovery with confidence.
Our team of licensed professionals understands that detox can be both physically and emotionally demanding. That’s why we’re here for you every step of the way. Whether you’re dealing with opioids, alcohol, stimulants, or other substances, we’ll design a plan that supports you from detox through aftercare.
Call us today at (386) 866-8689 to speak with a compassionate team member and start your path to a healthy, drug-free life.
