Why medical detox is an important part of recovery

The detox process can be difficult, and even intimidating. At Geisinger Marworth, we are with you throughout the entire detox process, helping you get off drugs or alcohol and reduce the likelihood of recurrence. We offer medically-assisted recovery to gently (and safely) step you down off drugs or alcohol and get you well again.

Medically assisted detox: What does it mean?

Medically assisted detox is a program that uses medication to help someone with a substance use disorder slowly wean off drugs or alcohol. During this process, our team of doctors, nurses, and support staff will monitor you 24/7, guiding you as you safely withdraw from alcohol or drugs. We use medications that calm the central nervous system and reduce the risk of dangerous withdrawal symptoms, such as seizures. Other detox medications help to reduce the physical discomfort of withdrawal.

Detox is a personal journey, which means everyone’s experience with withdrawal will be different. Although detox can result in some unpleasant withdrawal symptoms, you will have around-the-clock support from our medical staff. You’ll be given medications that may reduce the duration and severity of your symptoms, as well as the dangers of initial detox. Each patient’s detox is individualized and targeted toward making patients comfortable during and after detox.

Some withdrawal symptoms you may encounter include:

• Fatigue
• Anxiety
• Sweating
• Body aches
• Nausea/vomiting
• Diarrhea
• Problems sleeping
  
  

Withdrawal symptoms will vary based on the person and type of substance they’ve used, as well as how long and how much they’ve used the controlled substance for and whether they have any underlying medical conditions.

Medically assisted detox reduces cravings and helps manage initial symptoms of withdrawal, while keeping you stable. This type of treatment plays an integral in helping you reach recovery.

“Medically assisted detox helps you detox from drugs or alcohol at a more gradual pace, making it less shocking on your body. We monitor you throughout the entire process and you will be an active participant in your detox process,” says Deb Mendelsohn, a physician assistant at Geisinger Marworth.

How long does it take?

No two people experience withdrawal in the same way. Our detox programs vary and are tailored to fit your individual needs. We will educate and guide you on treatment options, how to manage cravings and how to lower the chances for recurrence of use.

After your initial evaluation, we will find the right program to meet your needs. Your program is just that — your program. We understand you may have different obligations and needs than the next person, and we always take those things into account. 

We offer different inpatient and outpatient programs to help you overcome your addiction. Our rehab programs differ in length and intensity, ranging from one week to 90 days. 

But your care doesn’t end when your program does. You’ll receive a variety of aftercare options such as cognitive behavioral therapy (a type of therapy that helps you have a more positive, productive mindset, in order to focus on sobriety), skills training, nutrition education and support groups. Our staff will continue to work with you and be there if you struggle. We’ll also be there to cheer you on as you get back to your old self and live a life free from substance misuse.

How medically assisted detox aids in recovery

A supervised medically assisted detox program is crucial for your recovery for a variety of reasons. Most importantly, you will have full supervision as the substance or substances clear from your body. Your detox will be safe and your symptoms will be managed. You will not be alone as you detox—you will have a care team by your side to help you through any challenges.

You’ll also have constant contact with a counselor to talk through any concerns and learn coping mechanisms to deal with cravings. At Geisinger Marworth, we offer many therapy programs including individual and group counseling and recreation therapy.

Medically assisted detox treats the whole person, not just the symptoms. When combined with professional treatment, it’s proven to facilitate recovery, reduce cravings and decrease the likelihood of future use.

“Withdrawal can be a frightening process, especially for those who have already tried on their own and experienced severe symptoms. Often, discomfort leads people to continue to drink or use drugs to avoid withdrawal. Our medication-assisted detox minimizes the discomfort individuals experience when withdrawing and offer emotional support in a safe environment,” says Kathryn Jones, a physician assistant at Geisinger Marworth.

“When a patient leaves treatment, suddenly their world looks very different. Adjusting to a sober life can be more challenging than they thought. We’re here to help them do that and be their advocate,” Ms. Mendelsohn adds.

Comprehensive substance abuse treatment at Geisinger Marworth

If you or a loved one are dealing with substance abuse or addiction, the experienced team of addiction medicine specialists, doctors, nurses, counselors and support staff at Geisinger Marworth can help. Our team is here to help you navigate the withdrawal and recovery process. Through the combination of talk therapy and various educational offerings, those struggling will have all the resources they need to live a healthier, sober life.

We also provide a variety of resources for families who are struggling with their loved one’s substance abuse.

We know the journey to sobriety can be difficult. We’re here to get you on the right path.

Next steps:

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