How to Prepare for Your Detoxification Phase of Recovery

Alcohol and drug detoxification is a key component in any recovery program. It's the most critical piece of the puzzle but not an easy road. Before entering a detox program, knowing how to prepare for optimal success is essential.

At the Victory Treatment Program in Knoxville, Tennessee, Stacey Maltman, FNP-BC, provides outpatient detox and other treatments for drug and alcohol addiction.

 Stacey is an experienced addiction and recovery specialist offering support groups, medication-assisted treatment, and detox for addiction recovery.

Understanding the detox phase

Opioid and alcohol addiction are dangerous health disorders that affect every aspect of life. If you require drugs and alcohol to function in everyday life, you may be dealing with addiction.

The detox phase of treatment is the most crucial step in the process, but it's also the most difficult. Detoxing from alcohol and drugs is challenging, primarily through the withdrawal process.

The goal of the detox process is to get the body free of substances like opioids and alcohol. Getting the body and mind clean takes a few days to a few weeks. It's a challenging process but a necessary one to recover fully.

At our facility, we utilize medication-assisted treatment with Vivitrol to reduce cravings during detox. We also provide support groups  and IV medications to help the process and make you as comfortable as possible during the detox process. We do not prescribe buprenorphine, however, we do offer other oral medications that can be taken at home to decrease your symptoms and make them manageable.

How to prepare for detox

Outpatient and inpatient detox are both effective, but they're daunting if you don't know what to expect. The first step in recovery is knowing your problem and taking the initiative to enter a detox program.

Preparing for detox is essential because your life will change for the better. We offer support throughout every process, including the following tips to prepare for the detox process:

Ask plenty of questions

Knowing what's about to happen before undergoing detox is essential. At your consultation, ask plenty of questions about the process, medications, and the support we provide throughout recovery.

Knowing what to expect makes the transition into detox easier and less abrasive. It also helps you understand what you're about to go through to better your life and health.

Read up on the process

Take the time before detox begins to read up on the detox process. It's slightly different between drugs and alcohol, and knowing what to expect during the withdrawal process prepares you mentally for what's to come. Every detox process is different for each person. Having open communication with your medical team can ensure you have optimal success. Some symptoms you may experience while detoxing from drugs and alcohol are a follows:  fever, chills, upset stomach or vomiting, diarrhea, decreased appetite, fatigue, insomnia, and anxiety.

Find a support system

Your support system is critical during detox, especially when things get tough. A strong support group can make a difference.

Finding family and friends who provide unwavering support helps with your emotions, monitor progress throughout the process, and are there if an emergency strikes during outpatient detox.

Create a healthy environment

If you choose outpatient detox, it's crucial to create a healthy and safe environment at home. Clean up clutter, stock up on water and fluids, and get plenty of books to read or journals to write in.

It's also essential to have plenty of comfortable clothing and blankets to help with chills or discomfort during detox.

Prepare for emotional ups and downs

The detox program is mentally and physically  challenging and emotionally draining – but it's worth it in the end. Although you can't fully prepare for every emotional challenge, knowing that the road will be tough and challenging is a good idea.

Understand withdrawal symptoms

Withdrawal symptoms are an unfortunate part of the detox process, and they're difficult to deal with. Understand what withdrawal symptoms you could potentially have to deal with so you're not surprised when they pop up.

Create a plan for after-detox

After successfully getting through detox, your journey isn't over. Sobriety is a life-long commitment that requires constant vigilance and support to prevent relapse.

Create a plan that includes support groups, therapy, and a structured strategy for staying clean throughout each stage.

Call the Victory Treatment Program today to schedule an appointment to discuss detox, or visit our website to learn about addiction recovery.