Medical Detox

In the challenging early days of rehab, Hickory Behavioral Hospital recognizes the need for extra support. Our medical detox, certified as the gold standard in addiction treatment, helps patients navigate withdrawal and cravings, providing crucial assistance during this tough phase.

“Detox” refers to the period of treatment during which you’re “detoxifying” your body of foreign chemicals — in this case meaning drugs and/or alcohol. Medical detox is a detox program that takes place under the constant supervision of licensed medical professionals. This makes for a detox and withdrawal period that’s as safe and as comfortable as possible.

What Is Medical Detox?

What Is Medical Detox?

“Detox” refers to the period of treatment during which you’re “detoxifying” your body of foreign chemicals — in this case meaning drugs and/or alcohol. Medical detox is a detox program that takes place under the constant supervision of licensed medical professionals. This makes for a detox and withdrawal period that’s as safe and as comfortable as possible.
During medical detox, our addiction medicine specialists will…

  • Conduct interviews with you to learn about your substance use, overall health history, and other important aspects that help us understand your case
  • Work with you to develop a plan that may include therapies and medications tailored to your unique needs
  • Wean you off substances gradually, offering targeted intervention to reduce the symptoms and the risk posed by withdrawal.

Symptoms You Need Detox Treatment

Close up on a bike with helmet smiling

Why You Shouldn’t Try to Detox on Your Own

When a person realizes that they need to control their substance use, it’s natural to consider at least trying to detox on their own. What many don’t realize, however, is that relapse rates for substance use disorders are around 40-60%, according to the National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA). That’s almost as high as the rates for high blood pressure and asthma, which are medical conditions that no one would try to treat without the assistance of medical professionals.

Ultimately, although at-home detox is possible, it’s not very likely to be successful. There are also some added risks of trying to detox on your own

Harsh Withdrawal Side Effects

Anyone who has started and stopped using drugs or alcohol knows what the classic withdrawal are:

  • Fever and sweating
  • Nausea and vomiting
  • Severe headaches
  • Shakes and possible seizures
  • Anxiety, depression, and thoughts of suicide
  • Insomnia and restless sleep
  • Hallucinations and general disorientation
  • Powerful cravings

In some cases, the symptoms of withdrawal can be potentially deadly, so it’s important that detox is managed by professionals.

Severe Relapse Risk

Immediately after stopping your intake of drugs or alcohol can be the most dangerous time to relapse. Withdrawal symptoms start within hours of ridding your body of addictive substances, accompanied by cravings. Many people start with a firm resolve, but after some time on their own, they’ll do anything to feel relief, so they start using again.

During this period, however, the body’s tolerance for the substance has already dropped from where it was directly before detox. If a person uses the amount of the substance they used to to get high, there’s a chance that it may be more than their body can handle, which leads to an overdose.

Close up on a bike with helmet smiling

The Right Detox Treatment for You

Hickory Recovery keeps your family and loved ones apprised of your progress. We offer versatile techniques such as cognitive behavioral therapy and group therapy so you can find support during the crucial first stage of your recovery.

You experience a variety of traditional and holistic therapies in both are detox treatment and longer recovery programs. From proper nutrition and exercise to getting to the root of your addiction, dedicated staff members are here to help.

Outpatient vs. Residential Treatment

We highly recommend residential detox treatment to provide your best opportunity to avoid relapse. During detox, you begin to learn new habits and skills that can help you maintain a sober lifestyle. Residential treatment involves staying on our luxurious campus, enjoying nutritious meals and around the clock access to medical care and therapy.

Depending on the severity of your substance abuse, a shorter plan may work for you. Outpatient treatment following initial detox can help you stay clean and focused on building a new life. However, in many cases we recommend residential treatment that may include dual diagnosis treatment for underlying emotional and mental conditions.

Close up on a bike with helmet smiling

Need Help? Contact Hickory Behavioral Hospital Today!

At Hickory Behavioral Hospital, we understand that medically supervised detox is the key to building a foundation for lifelong sobriety.We take admissions 24/7 as long as there’s room, because we know that when you need help starting your journey to recovery, you can’t afford to wait.

If you or a loved one need help getting off drugs or alcohol, our Medical Detox program may be right for you. Contact us today to learn how to get started.

Contact us today to schedule an appointment with our admission staff or learn more about our healing programs.