People used to think that rehab and detox were the same thing. In other words, as long as you get the drugs out of your system, you’re good to go.
Of course, now we know that it takes a lot more than detox to recover from drug or alcohol addiction. Just like it took time for your addiction to develop, it will take time and effort to begin your recovery.
Yes, detox is designed to get the drugs out of your system, but it’s not about just healing the body— it’s about healing your mind, too.
That is where social model detox can be effective: it uses emotional support as the primary method of getting through withdrawal symptoms.
What is the Definition of Social Detox?
Social model detox, also known as social detox, is the process of ridding the body of toxins without the use of medication, and instead using emotional support to ease the discomfort of withdrawal symptoms.
For individuals with mild addictions, or for those who aren’t experiencing dangerous withdrawal symptoms, social model detox can be effective, especially when outstanding therapists and counseling staff are involved.
What Are the Dangers of Social Detox?
Just like treatment, there is not a one-size-fits-all approach to detox. For some, withdrawal symptoms can not only be unpleasant, but they can be life-threatening.
For heavy alcohol drinkers, opioid/heroin users, or those with dual diagnosis disorders, this is especially true. In these cases, medical detox and medically-assisted treatment (MAT) are preferred over social detox.
What Is the Difference Between Social and Medical Detox?
In medical detox, nurses and other medical staff carefully monitor and manage uncomfortable withdrawal symptoms using medication, supplements, and more.
In contrast, social detox is only considered for individuals who aren’t facing life-threatening withdrawal symptoms. In social model detox, your health is still carefully monitored – it’s just more hands-on therapeutically and emotionally instead of medically.
Which Type of Detox Is Better?
Detox alone, be it medical or social, will not be enough to heal your mind and body from the effects of addiction. Choosing a detox center with a holistic approach will ensure that you receive the most effective combination of both social and medical detox. The right program will give you the support you need and the strategies you need to move forward with confidence.
Which Type of Detox Do I Need?
If you’re struggling with a mild addiction, you may be able to avoid detox and enter directly into an outpatient treatment program. But if you’re struggling with severe substance abuse, alcoholism, opioid addiction, or are experiencing dangerous withdrawal symptoms, your first step in treatment will be detox.
What Happens After Detox?
Once you’re past the initial detoxification phase, that’s when you dig into the hard part. By transitioning into an inpatient or residential treatment program, you’ll begin individual and group therapies designed to help you try to see why you started using in the first place. You’ll work on new strategies for managing life and learn healthier ways to cope with stress, triggers and cravings. All the while, you’ll address any dual diagnosis disorders like depression, PTSD, or anxiety.
Does The Raleigh House Use Social or Medical Detox?
We know how beneficial and life-saving medication-assisted treatment can be when you’re detoxing from alcohol or drug use. Before treatment begins, we evaluate your condition to determine how severe your history of substance abuse is. Then, we will use our learnings to plan a medical detox that includes medication and dietary supplements to help you work through your withdrawal symptoms as carefully and comfortably as possible.
Get Help Today and Detox Safely at The Raleigh House
At The Raleigh House, we know that addiction isn’t just a physical problem. Our master’s level trained therapists get to the root cause of addiction and will help you develop a strategy to manage and enjoy life without drugs or alcohol. Fill out our form or contact us today to learn more about our detox services.
