Harvard - Detoxification

Individuals who are physically dependent to drugs or alcohol and want assistance will initially go through detox before receiving other treatment services in drug rehab. Detox is simply the process of the drug being removed from one's system, which is generally uncomfortable and may carry risks if not executed in a setting which can supply appropriate support and medical intervention as necessary. Detoxification services are supplied at either a professional drug or alcohol detoxification facility or a drug treatment facility which can appropriately oversee and present medical supervision for individuals who are just coming off of drugs. Detox services generally include insuring the individual is as relaxed as possible while detoxing and going through drug or alcohol withdrawal, offering proper nutrition and ensuring the particular person is getting proper rest, and providing supplements and medicine as necessary to make the detoxification process as smooth and safe as possible. The individual in detoxification will sometimes be encouraged to take part in some type of physical activity such as walking, yoga, etc. At a drug detox facility or drug rehabilitation facility which can offer detox services, the individual will have detoxification staff at their disposal around the clock to assure that any difficulties are handled as rapidly and safely as possible.