Alcohol detox and rehab are two of the core elements in alcoholism recovery. Each of them plays a vital role in helping you establish a lasting sober lifestyle. But what exactly is the difference between detox and rehab? The answer to this question will help you better understand what to expect when starting your recovery. It may also better prepare you for the challenges of overcoming alcohol addiction.
Are Detox and Rehab the Same Thing?
It’s not uncommon to wonder if detox and rehab are the same. This curiosity is valid for a couple of reasons. First, the use of these two terms can be imprecise. You may hear someone refer to detox when they mean rehab. You may also hear someone refer to rehab when they mean detox. In addition, some people use both terms to refer to the same thing.
The second issue is the relative lack of discussion in America regarding the details of addiction treatment. Substance use problems bear the brunt of many stigmas in a significant portion of society. In addition, many people never pay much attention to substance treatment unless their lives come in contact with addiction.
Detox and rehab are not the same things, to put it simply. Instead, they are two different, interconnected aspects of an effective recovery. Detox marks the beginning of the process. Rehab, or primary substance treatment, is the crucial follow-up to detox.
The Difference Between Detox and Rehab: Alcohol Detox
To recover from alcoholism, you must quit drinking. However, if you’re addicted to alcohol, your brain has developed an expectation that you will keep drinking. Failure to meet this expectation can set the stage for alcohol withdrawal.
Detox provides the specialized treatment you need for effective withdrawal support. While in your program, you will receive medical care designed to protect and support your health. You may also receive various medications to help you cope with withdrawal’s effects. Possible medication options include:
- Benzodiazepines sedatives
- Seizure control drugs
- Antipsychotic drugs
- Treatments that help reduce your relapse risks
Detox programs also set aside time to help you prepare for alcohol rehab.
Detox and Rehab: Two Sides of the Recovery Coin
Rehab allows you to capitalize on the efforts you make in your detox program. One of its main goals is to help you avoid relapse while learning how to develop stable sobriety. Medications that can help you achieve this vital objective include:
- Disulfiram
- Naltrexone
- Acamprosate
Alcohol rehab programs also rely heavily on psychotherapy. There are therapy options to help you improve your motivation to get better. Contingency management therapy can also give you incentives to meet specific recovery targets. Cognitive-behavioral therapy can help you undo addiction-supporting thoughts, emotional responses, and behaviors. In addition, group therapy is available to help you make good use of a mutual self-help group for alcoholism.
Some people in alcohol rehab may only receive medication-based care. Others may only receive therapy-based care. However, combined use of medication and therapy is also widespread.
Get More Information on Detox and Rehab at Northpoint Colorado
Want to learn more about the difference between detox and rehab? Talk to the alcoholism specialists at Northpoint Colorado. We’ll provide more detail on what distinguishes these two phases of recovery. We’ll also help clarify exactly how detox and rehab work together.
Ready to start your journey to sobriety? Northpoint Colorado is your source for customized alcohol detox and rehab. Our comprehensive approach creates a smooth transition between these two recovery necessities. We help you take full advantage of the chance to regain your independence from substances. Call us today at 970.579.4569 or fill out our online form to find a plan that works for you.