How to Prepare for Drug Detox

The decision to go for drug detox is significant. Many individuals reach this point after unsuccessful attempts to quit drugs or alcohol independently.

Others may have experienced an intervention from loved ones. Regardless of how you arrived at this decision, you have taken the first step toward sobriety.

Choosing a drug detox connects you with essential support. This support helps you navigate the initial days and weeks of recovery.

Your body needs time to adjust and eliminate the substances it has relied on. Although this process can be challenging, professional guidance ensures your physical and mental well-being.

Now, you must prepare for a transformative stay at a drug detox facility. Follow these steps to ensure a successful recovery journey.

Find an Effective Drug Detox Program

Effective drug detox programs vary in offerings and support levels. Choose a program that can assist you throughout the withdrawal process. The duration of withdrawal can range from a few days to weeks, so select a facility where you feel comfortable.

Expect effective programs to adhere to best practices for withdrawal support. A professional should be available 24/7 to assist with symptoms. While you may share a room, the environment should promote relaxation.

You may be encouraged to engage in exercise, meditation, and counseling. However, participation should be voluntary.

Focus on comfort and healthy coping techniques. As withdrawal symptoms like headaches, anxiety, and insomnia subside, your willingness to participate will likely increase.

Initiate the Admissions Process

After selecting a detox program, inform them of your interest. The admissions process at White Light Behavioral Health is straightforward. You can initiate your stay by making a phone call or completing an online form with your details and insurance information.

Prepare the following information for the admissions process:

• Health insurance information
• Details about your addiction history
• Relevant health information
• Information about prior mental health treatments

Do not hesitate to start the admissions process if you lack any information. Most details can be finalized later. The priority is to seek help when you are ready to begin recovery.

Make Travel and Transportation Arrangements

Most individuals will need to travel to their detox facility. If you live nearby, consider a ride from a loved one or public transportation.

Out-of-state individuals may need to arrange flights and transportation from the airport to the facility. If travel planning feels overwhelming, inform the admissions team.

Detox facility support staff can assist you in arranging safe transportation to treatment.

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Set Realistic Expectations

Entering detox may feel like a vacation after the stress of substance use disorder. While relaxation is essential, be prepared for hard work. Withdrawal symptoms can manifest within the first 12 to 24 hours and require effort to manage.

Trust the process and share your experiences with your support staff. Your detox team can provide coping strategies, including medication and relaxation techniques. Remember that detox is a temporary phase in your recovery journey, helping you maintain the mental strength to persevere.

Establish an Outside Support Network

Entering detox connects you with internal support staff. However, additional support from outside individuals may be beneficial.

Your stay in detox is confidential, but consider informing family and close friends about your plans. This allows them to provide support.

Call a loved one for emotional support or request items that make your stay more comfortable. Ensure that those you involve in your recovery are sober, positive, and eager to see you succeed.

Begin Making Plans for Follow-Up Care

Most individuals require ongoing care after detox. Approximately 9.2 million adults in the U.S. live with co-occurring mental health disorders, including:

• Post-traumatic stress disorder

• Anxiety
• Schizophrenia
• Bipolar disorder
• Depression
• ADHD

During your initial detox treatment, you may undergo psychological assessments. These assessments help the team guide you through the next stages of recovery.

If you receive a new mental health diagnosis, do not worry. Your subsequent treatment will focus on managing symptoms without drugs or alcohol.

Follow-up care includes specialized therapy addressing your specific mental health needs. Depending on your situation, you may participate in a residential program or intensive outpatient care.

Therapy options may range from traditional 12-step programs to evidence-based cognitive behavioral therapy. Some individuals may require multiple therapy types.

For example, family therapy can help rebuild relationships while you also attend individual dialectical behavioral therapy sessions. Adhering to the recommended follow-up care plan is crucial for avoiding relapse and supporting your recovery.

Recruit Help With Managing Your Responsibilities

With your stay planned and a positive mindset established, focus on managing your responsibilities while away. Preparing for detox is similar to planning for an extended vacation.

Arrange for child or pet care. Family members or close friends can often assist with children, while you may need to contact a neighbor or boarding facility for pets. If you care for a senior loved one, ensure someone can step in during your absence.

Notify your work or school about your health-related time off. While there is no shame in seeking detox, you control how much you disclose about your reasons for taking leave. Depending on your employment status, you may qualify for family and medical leave, making it easier to take time off without repercussions.

Manage any bills or financial concerns. Consider prepaying or automating monthly expenses, such as rent or auto insurance. While you can address these matters from detox, checking them off your list can alleviate stress.

Plan for What to Bring for Your Stay

White Light Behavioral Health provides essential items for your safety, health, and comfort during your stay. However, you should bring a few personal belongings.

The facility offers a bed, clean bedding, and bathing facilities. While sheets and a comforter are provided, pack cozy pajamas for sleeping.

During the admissions process, you will receive a list of items to bring and those to leave at home. Use this list to help you pack:

• Contact information for family and friends
• About a week’s worth of daily wear and pajamas
• Shoes, including sneakers and slippers
• A small amount of cash for necessities or snacks
• A list of all prescription medications you take
• Prescription medications in their original bottles with labels
• Eyeglasses, contacts, and other personal essentials
• Toiletries, such as your favorite shampoo and deodorant
• A journal, pictures of loved ones, and other comfort items

The goal of packing for detox is to travel light while ensuring you have what you need for comfort. While eyeglasses are essential, you may not need a laptop if it could be distracting.

Upon arrival at detox, your luggage will typically be checked. If there are safety concerns about an item, you will be offered options for keeping it secure until your departure.

You may arrange for someone to pick it up or store it until you complete the program. Rest assured that your belongings will be kept safe.

Feel free to reach out to your detox support team with any questions as you pack. Feeling confident in your packing decisions promotes a positive mindset, helping you look forward to your recovery.

Start Looking Forward to Life in Sobriety

It may be challenging to envision life beyond your current situation. You might fear getting too excited about sobriety due to past challenges. Regardless of your emotional state, trust that you will be surrounded by support.

From the moment you contact our detox program, you will engage with individuals who understand the desire to overcome addiction. As you prepare for drug detox, lean on your new support network. Whether you have questions about packing or need encouragement, simply ask.

Your detox support team is ready to help you embrace the benefits of a sober life. Stronger relationships, improved mental health, and new opportunities await you as you choose to enter detox.