Substance use disorder (SUD), also known as addiction, is listed as a chronic mental health disorder in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, Fifth Edition (DSM-5).
The Mayo Clinic explains that addiction is a “disease that affects a person’s brain and behavior and leads to an inability to control the use of a legal or illegal drug or medication.” If left untreated, addiction can cause severe short and long-term physiological effects. The first step in treating addiction is to undergo detox. Every individual is unique and will have distinct wants and needs when it comes to his or her recovery process. Addiction, while clinically recognized as a mental disorder, still carries a social stigma, which is why there are private detox programs available.
Tips and Suggestions
To start the process, speak to your PCP (primary care provider) as he or she will likely be able to point you in the right direction and recommend a detox center that prioritizes confidentiality and discretion. If they do not have recommendations, they may be able to connect you with someone in their professional network that can provide further assistance. Prior to making any commitments, it is essential to conduct due diligence and to be mindful of the following:
- Service setting: Is it a residential, inpatient detox facility or an outpatient detox program? Is it a co-ed program?
- Duration of program: what is the duration of the program? Does it align with your needs?
- Cost: Some detox programs take insurance as a form of payment while others do not. Make sure you are privy to the costs associated as well as your personal medical insurance benefits (if applicable) prior to committing to a detox program.
- Geographical location: where is the location of the detox program and does your situation allow for you to either commute there or reside there?
Private detox programs are keenly aware of the fact that privacy and discretion are important considerations when beginning treatment for substance abuse and/ or addiction. One of the key benefits to selecting a discreet detox program is privacy. All relationships between one’s clinical team remain confidential, and any communication or treatment agreed upon between client and staff will remain strictly private. A private detox center will offer the same treatment services while providing a greater level of discretion to its participants.
For Information and Support
Contemplating detox can be a very challenging time. Before any individual can begin to work on the underlying issues contributing to their substance abuse problem, they must be separated from the substances in their systems. If you are concerned for yourself or a loved one regarding substance abuse, and/ or addiction we recommend reaching out for help as soon as possible. The earlier you seek support, the sooner you and your loved ones can return to leading happy, healthy, and fulfilling lives. Sherwood Detox offers a stand-alone detox program. For additional information on detox, please do not hesitate to contact us at: 818-626-9959 or feel free to email us anytime. One of our trusted counselors is available to talk and discuss how we can best support you on your journey.
