If you or someone you know has struggled with substance abuse, alcohol addiction, or drug addiction, it’s essential to be aware of the types of detox available. New York Tri-State outpatient detox is a leading option that is less of an interruption to people’s daily lives.
A detox treatment plan is recommended for those at high risk for acute withdrawal symptoms. However, outpatient detox is helpful for anyone who needs to stop taking a substance they have become dependent on.
What is Acute Withdrawal?
Acute withdrawal is the body’s reaction to stopping addictive drugs. While using, your body adjusts to having the drugs in your system. Addictive drugs change how your body works and require those drugs to work correctly. When you stop using, your body struggles to keep working until it can undo the changes and normally work again. Acute withdrawal occurs in the first hours, days, and weeks after stopping drug use.
Signs of Acute Withdrawal
It is relatively easy to know when someone is in withdrawal since the symptoms can be seen. Some of the symptoms of acute withdrawal can include:
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Diarrhea
- Abdominal cramping
- Cold flashes with goosebumps
- Seizures
- Incoordination and tremors
- Anxiety and panic attacks
You must understand the severity of acute withdrawal from the substance you are using. The symptoms vary based on the substance.
What is Post-Acute Withdrawal?
Post-acute withdrawal is a condition where withdrawal symptoms last longer than they should. In many cases, withdrawal is usually a short-term issue. Depending on the drug’s impact, it is possible to experience withdrawal for much longer. For example, opioid withdrawal has a higher chance of lasting longer than expected.
Signs of Post-Acute Withdrawal
Post-acute withdrawal syndrome (PAWS) occurs after the first few weeks of withdrawal, when symptoms should begin to subside. Some of the symptoms of PAWS can include:
- Muscle aches
- Nausea
- Headache
- Increased heart rate
Benefits of Outpatient Detox
There are many benefits of participating in outpatient detox.
Some of them include the following:
Ability to Live at Home
Most outpatient detox facilities will allow you to stay home during your detox treatment. As opposed to being in a hospital or recovery center, where you are forced to live away from your home environment and support system, outpatient detox allows you to be in an environment where you are surrounded by those who love and care about you. This benefits the client because they can do other activities while in treatment instead of being confined in a hospital or facility where they may not be able to leave while receiving treatment.
Family Counseling Helps the Whole Family
While in outpatient detox, the professionals working with you will likely provide family counseling and help with other areas of your life that may have been affected by substance abuse. This may include relationship issues, emotional problems, and even parenting issues.
Program Support
Outpatient detox also provides you with a structured program that can help you with your recovery. Many support programs specialize in different types of detox and recovery. If possible, find a detox program that supports the type of recovery that you need. Program support may include:
- Individualized care plans
- Group meetings with other clients
- Alcohol or drug education classes such as Narcotics Anonymous
Therapies Used in Outpatient Detox
Outpatient detox usually consists of several therapy types. Patients get a more well-rounded treatment plan that fits their needs.
Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy
Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) treats the feelings and influences connected to addiction. It is administered by a certified counselor and can be used in the short and long term. It is one of the most common therapy methods.
Individual Counseling
Counseling is an integral part of the recovery process. Patients can meet with counselors for one-on-one sessions, which gives them the focused care they may need. Individual counseling is often used as a short-term, long-term, and emergency treatment option.
Group Counseling
Patients may work with counselors in groups, which helps develop support networks. Some patients find it easier to make progress in a group rather than alone. Group counseling is often used as a long-term strategy once a patient is stable enough to participate.
Medication-Assisted Treatment
Medication-Assisted Treatment (MAT) is effective when patients need medication to manage withdrawal symptoms. It is used in cases where withdrawal symptoms are severe. Highly addictive substances, such as narcotics and opioids, may require MAT to overcome.
New York Tri-State outpatient detox can help someone trying to overcome addiction find the necessary resources. The right outpatient program can make a big difference in your recovery. Contact NYC Addiction Resources for assistance if you need help finding an outpatient program.
