Detox & Withdrawal Support
Detox is short-term medical support to help you stop using alcohol or drugs as safely and comfortably as possible. It focuses on managing withdrawal and stabilizing your health. Many people use detox as the first step before starting therapy and longer-term recovery care.
Our website is for information only. We help you understand your options and prepare for conversations with licensed providers, but we do not diagnose, treat, or guarantee outcomes.
Who Detox May Help
Detox may be a good fit if you:
- Use alcohol or drugs heavily or every day
- Have had severe withdrawal in the past
- Have medical conditions that make withdrawal risky
- Do not have stable support at home
- Feel unsure how to stop safely on your own
A licensed clinician should review your situation before you decide.
What Detox Is
Detox helps your body clear a substance while a team watches your symptoms. Staff may check your vital signs, track how you feel, and use comfort measures. When appropriate, they may use medications to lower withdrawal risks and help you feel more stable.
Detox is focused on safety and stabilization. Most people move into another level of care after detox for therapy, skills, and relapse-prevention support.
Safety First: When to Seek Immediate Help
Detox information is not emergency care. Some withdrawal symptoms can be dangerous.
Seek urgent help right away if you experience:
- Confusion or disorientation
- Seizures
- Chest pain or trouble breathing
- Thoughts of self-harm or harming others
Call your local emergency number or go to the nearest emergency room if you notice these symptoms.
How Medical Detox Works
Assessment & Monitoring
At intake, staff review:
- Your substance use history
- Your medical and mental health history
- Your current symptoms and vital signs
They then check on you regularly, adjust your care plan, and watch for any signs of complications.
Comfort & Symptom Support
Support may include:
- A quiet, supervised space to rest
- Fluids, nutrition, and help with sleep
- Calming strategies, grounding, or reassurance
- Medications, when appropriate, to lower withdrawal risks
- The goal is to keep you as safe and as comfortable as possible.
Short Stay, Clear Plan
Detox is usually brief, often days, not weeks. Before you leave, the team should:
- Review your progress and remaining risks
- Talk through next steps, like inpatient, PHP, IOP, or outpatient care
- Help you connect with follow-up services and supports
- Planning ahead makes it easier to move straight into your next level of care.
How Long Does Detox Last?
Detox length varies based on:
- The substance involved
- How much and how often you used
- Your medical and mental health history
Many people complete detox within several days. Some need longer. Your team will explain what to expect for your situation and how step-down care works.
Medications (When Appropriate)
For some alcohol and opioid use disorders, FDA-approved medications may:
- Reduce withdrawal symptoms
- Lower cravings
- Support safety during detox and beyond
A prescriber will review risks, benefits, and alternatives. Medication is voluntary and is used as part of a broader care plan.
Co-Occurring or Dual Diagnosis Care
If you have both substance use and mental health needs, ask about dual diagnosis support. Treating withdrawal, mood, anxiety, and other concerns together can improve your safety and long-term stability.
Aftercare & Step-Down
Detox is the start, not the finish. After detox, most people move into care that focuses on skills and support, such as:
- Inpatient or residential treatment
- Partial Hospitalization Program (PHP, or day treatment)
- Intensive Outpatient Program (IOP, or half-day treatment)
- Standard outpatient care or telehealth
These programs help you manage cravings, build coping skills, and plan for daily life in recovery.
Insurance & Costs
Coverage depends on your plan, network, and medical needs. Programs can check benefits, but your insurer makes the final decision. Ask about self-pay or payment plans if needed.
How to Choose a Detox Program
- Check for state license and accreditation
- Ask about medical and psychiatric staff availability
- Review safety policies and detox support
- Confirm aftercare planning and insurance coverage
Choosing the right program means finding a safe, accredited place that meets your needs and supports long-term recovery. Take time to ask questions and compare options before deciding.
FAQs
Is detox the same as treatment?
No. Detox focuses on withdrawal and short-term stabilization. Ongoing care, like inpatient, PHP, IOP, outpatient, or telehealth, helps you build skills, process emotions, and plan for daily life.
Can I detox at home?
Home detox can be risky, especially for alcohol, benzodiazepines, or heavy use of other substances. A clinician should assess your safety and recommend the right setting.
How long will I be in detox?
Many stays last several days, but the exact length varies. Your team will explain what to expect based on your health and progress.
Will I have to take medication?
No. Medication is offered only when clinically appropriate and with your informed consent. You can ask questions and say no if you are not comfortable.
What happens after detox?
Most people step into therapy-focused residential or outpatient care. Planning the next level of care before discharge helps you stay supported and reduces gaps in treatment.
Will insurance cover detox?
Coverage varies by plan and provider. Programs can check your benefits, but your insurer and the program confirm final costs, including deductibles and copays.
Helpful Resources
In Crisis? Get Immediate Help
If you are in danger or thinking of self-harm, call 911 (or your local emergency number). In the US, dial or text 988 for the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline.