Sub-Acute Detox: The First Step in Recovery

AAddiction is a complex disease that requires a wide range of treatment options at various levels.
The first step in the recovery process is detoxification, a process that removes drugs, alcohol and toxins from the body. This could involve stopping cold turkey or gradually reducing the substance until all addictive substances are eliminated.

When you first start treatment, our intake counselors will determine the appropriate level of care for you. If you don’t have a significant risk of medical complications or severe withdrawal symptoms, sub-acute detox will be recommended. However, if you do have a higher risk for these complications, acute detox may be the better option.

At Shadow Hills Recovery, most clients come to us after completing a medical detox program. They are stable and ready to dive into the core part of their recovery, which involves exploring the underlying reasons for their substance use. Let’s learn more about the detox process and why it’s a necessary part of the treatment continuum.

What Is Sub-Acute Detox?

Sub-acute detox is a less intensive form of detoxification for individuals with mild to moderate withdrawal symptoms. Unlike programs with 24-hour clinician supervision, it involves minimal medical staff oversight and is often performed in an outpatient setting, allowing Los Angeles area residents to return home during the process.

This detox serves as an entry point to recovery, focusing on safely eliminating substances from the body. It helps prepare individuals for further treatment by ending drug cravings and stabilizing their physical condition.

Acute vs. Sub-Acute Detox

Acute detox is best for individuals who are struggling with severe physical dependencies. In acute detox, clients receive 24-hour continuous monitoring at an inpatient facility. This monitoring is necessary because there’s a higher risk for respiratory failure, seizures, and other life-threatening side effects. If someone is suffering acute intoxication (alcohol poisoning), acute detox will likely be the next step after emergency care.

Sub-acute detox, on the other hand, is designed for those who have less severe withdrawal symptoms. There is less medical supervision involved, and this type of detox is often done in an outpatient setting where clients return home at night. People often prefer sub-acute detox because it offers more freedom than a 24-hour program.

Detox and Withdrawal:The First Step to Recovery

Detox is the first step in treating substance use disorders. Many people fear this part of the process since it’s physically and emotionally draining, but it’s made easier with the right detox program. Because some drugs, including alcohol, can cause life-threatening side effects, the team at our Shadow Hills, CA rehab recommends residential detox with an appropriate amount of medical supervision.

The substance you are addicted to will affect your withdrawal symptoms. For example, people with alcohol use disorders have different symptoms than those detoxing from stimulants. But there are still some common symptoms of withdrawal that you will likely encounter such as anxiety, irritability, diarrhea, and cravings. Most people are able to complete detox in 3-7 days, though some withdrawal symptoms may linger.

What Factors Influence Detox?

There are a number of factors that will affect your need for acute or subacute detox and the type of withdrawal symptoms you go through. These include:

The substance you’re addicted to
How long you’ve been an addict
The severity of the addiction
The presence of a co-occurring disorder
Underlying medical problems
Your motivation to get sober
Your support system

What to Expect From Sub-acute Detoxification at Our California Rehab

A sub-acute medical detox generally lasts between 3-7 days. Here’s what to expect during sub-acute residential detox at our Los Angeles area detox facility.

Assessment and Evaluation

Initial Health Check: Clients undergo a comprehensive evaluation with medical staff to assess physical and mental health, as well as the severity of their physical dependence.
Personalized Detox Plan: Based on the evaluation, a customized detox plan is created to match the client’s specific needs. If they do not need continuous monitoring, the treatment plan will start with sub-acute detox.

Detox Duration and Symptoms

Timeline: Most clients complete sub-acute detox in 3-7 days, though some withdrawal symptoms may linger beyond this.
Common Symptoms: Withdrawal can involve mild symptoms like irritability, anxiety, diarrhea, and cravings, but the intensity is generally lower than in acute detoxification.

Managing Withdrawal Symptoms

Experienced Staff: The team at our Los Angeles area rehab is skilled in managing symptoms and providing support.
Comfort Measures: Our goal is to keep clients as comfortable as possible, with minimal disruptions during the detox phase. Staff may also provide temporarily prescribed medication to ease symptoms.

Starting Addiction Treatment

Integrated Care: Detoxification is just the beginning. After completing this stage, clients transition into a structured residential treatment program at Shadow Hills Recovery.
Next Steps: In this phase, clients work with therapists and clinicians to explore addiction-related issues and begin treatment programs designed for long-term recovery.

Why Choose Our Sub-acute Detox Program in Shadow Hills, CA?

Our sub-acute detox program near Los Angeles offers several key benefits that make it an ideal choice for those with mild to moderate withdrawal symptoms.

Supportive and Comfortable Environment

We provide a welcoming and nurturing atmosphere for residential detox. Our California detox facility offers a peaceful setting where clients can focus on their sobriety journey without unnecessary stress.

Personalized Care and Attention

With a customized plan for each client, we ensure the detox process meets individual needs, with the right balance of medical supervision and independence.

Skilled and Compassionate Staff

Our experienced team specializes in managing withdrawal symptoms and providing emotional and psychological support throughout the detox process. We are dedicated to keeping clients comfortable and supported all the way through addiction treatment.

Take the First Step at Our California Detox and Rehab Facility

To determine the best level of detox for you, you’ll need to contact our admissions team or speak with a medical professional. A full evaluation will be done to determine your physical and mental health, as well as the severity of your addiction and the presence of a co-occurring condition like anxiety or depression.

Once you complete sub-acute detox, you can start a structured residential treatment program at Shadow Hills Recovery in Los Angeles, California. We have everything you need to heal from your addiction and lead a life of purpose and conviction. Contact the admissions team at Shadow Hills Recovery today to start your treatment journey.

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