FAQ 4

What is the detox process and why is it necessary?

The detox process is the first step in recovery and it is necessary for a number of different reasons. The most important reason is to rid the body of all toxins and poisons from the drug or alcohol abuse. Having a healthy physical body is crucial to the mental alertness necessary in the following stages of treatment.

In order to achieve the best results, meaning, having someone stay sober after detox, it is recommended that the detox take place in a medical facility. The reason for this location is because the detox process is often unpredictable and while withdrawal symptoms may be uncomfortable, there is no need to take further substances in order to cope with them. In a medical facility, the detox is supervised by a medical professional that can identify any complications or problems and deal with them as required. Medical detoxs are also more successful than detoxs done at home because the person is not able to take more drugs or 'lose the will power' and decide not to go through with it.

The detox process clears a person's system and helps it to readjust to a normal way of living. A medical detox also makes detoxing more comfortable and also gets a person ready for the next stage, which is most likely some type of treatment program.