Is There a Significant Difference Between Detox and Drug Rehab?

Substance abuse is a severe disease that requires extensive attention and immediate treatment. For some, getting help can be overwhelming because of how confusing the process is for those who aren’t fully aware of the various treatment options available and all of the terminology used. 

 

The words “detox” and “rehab” are common terms that often come up when discussing treatment, but what exactly do they mean, and what does each entail? Although they are sometimes used interchangeably, drug rehab and detox are not the same and differ in several key areas. 

What Does a Detox Center Do?

Detox centers serve as safe, secure locations where patients can clear out addictive substances from their system and experience the withdrawal process. Effects of withdrawal usually include nausea, mood changes, muscle aches and vomiting. In some cases, those in the process of withdrawal and detoxification can even experience hallucinations and seizures. 

 

Due to the severity of withdrawal, those who suffer from addictions like alcoholism should seriously consider entering a detox center and having their detox overseen with professional supervision.

 

In most instances, detoxing and withdrawal will last for a few days. After this process, patients will need to seek additional treatment elsewhere to further their progress. Unlike drug and alcohol rehab, detox centers are solely meant to help with the initial stages of recovery and do not offer long-term drug alcohol treatment.

 

What Does a Rehab Treatment Center Do?

Once a patient finishes their detox, entering a rehab center is the next logical step in the addiction treatment process. At rehab centers, patients can get long-term help from experienced medical professionals and support through various treatment programs like:

 

  • Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT): Cognitive-behavioral therapy gives patients a chance to examine their issues in a new light. Instead of having a negative perspective about their problems and reflecting only on the past, a therapist will help patients shift their focus toward the present moment. Changing how patients think and approach their issues can help them maintain a more positive outlook. 
  • Family Counseling: Addiction doesn’t just affect a patient, but the closest people around them as well. For progress to be made in recovery, patients must be able to acknowledge the role they’ve played in damaging their most intimate relationships. Family therapy allows patients to reflect on their actions and mend relationships with loved ones. 

Choosing Between Detox and Drug Rehab

Patients don’t have to choose between detox or drug rehab. They are two separate forms of addiction treatment options that fulfill different goals. While detox deals with the beginning of recovery and the initial withdrawal, drug rehab is more concerned with long-term healing and development. Your drug alcohol treatment can include both if you feel it is the best approach to handle your addiction.

Fear of Withdrawal

Being afraid of withdrawal is entirely understandable, considering how serious certain cases can be. Effects of withdrawal can range from nausea and mood changes to more severe symptoms like hallucinations and seizures. Fear of withdrawal and its severe symptoms can deter some from quitting their addiction and getting help. 

At Twin Town Treatment Centers, our services include detoxification and drug and alcohol addiction treatment. Those suffering from addiction can take back control of their life and begin their journey toward recovery by visiting one of our five drug addiction treatment centers throughout Orange County and the Los Angeles metropolitan area. Our drug and alcohol rehabilitation centers support those recovering from addiction with valuable resources like individualized intensive outpatient treatment (IOP) programs and drug addiction treatments. Get in touch today by calling us at (866) 594-8844 or filling out our online form to get started. Our team of drug addiction treatment professionals will provide you with a no-cost interview and assessment for alcohol and drug issues.