It can be confusing to know the difference between Detox and Rehab and what role each plays. They are closely related parts of recovery from drug addiction. Read on to learn more about each of these processes.
What Is Detox?
Detoxification is the safe and effective discontinuation of a substance of dependence or misuse. This may be with an illicit substance or a prescribed drug therapy. It involves the physiological or medicinal removal of toxic substances (drugs) from the body. This is mainly carried out by the liver, but also through carbon dioxide in the air we exhale, the kidneys and colon.
Detox usually takes between a few days and a few weeks, depending on [1]:
- Substance being misused
- Severity of the dependence
- Support available to the user.
What Is Detox For?
The goals of detox are to minimize any withdrawal effects and alleviate any side effects. The primary aim is to successfully complete the withdrawal procedure. This then provides an opportunity for complete abstinence. The ultimate outcome may or may not be abstinence. For example heroin dependence often has a long-term relapsing course over decades [1].
Abstinence may not be achievable or even desirable to the user. Many who complete detox do so only to reduce their dependence and related costs.
So detox is best thought of not as an end in itself, but as a transitional state between dependence and abstinence, or at least reduced harm.
As the National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA) noted “Detoxification alone does not address the psychological, social and behavioral problems associated with addiction and therefore does not typically produce lasting behavioral changes necessary for recovery. Detoxification should thus be followed by a formal assessment and referral to drug addiction treatment [2]
What Is Drug Rehab?
Drug rehabilitation (rehab) or treatment is a complex process that takes place after detox, usually in an addictions treatment center. It is medical or psychotherapeutic treatment for dependence on substances such as alcohol, prescription drugs and illicit street drugs.
Treatment includes:
- Medication for any co-occurring disorders such as depression or anxiety
- Therapy or counseling by licensed practitioners
- Sharing with other recovering people in support groups.
There are a variety of forms of rehab, including:
- Residential treatment (inpatient or outpatient)
- Addictions counseling
- Mental health counseling
- Experiential therapy
- Exposure therapy
- Medical care
- Recovery or sober houses
Some rehabs offer age- or gender-specific programs.
What Is Drug Rehab For?
The primary intent of most drug rehab programs is to support the patient to confront their substance dependence and stop substance misuse. The objective is so that they can avoid the psychological, behavioral, social, financial and legal consequences that drug misuse can cause.
Detox Vs Rehab
Participating in detox and rehab is not usually an either/or except for financial or time reasons. Generally the most effective approach typically involves both detox and rehab to minimize the risk of relapse.
| Detox | Rehab | |
| Location | Inpatient detox center | Inpatient rehab center or outpatient |
| Duration | 3-5 days to 3 weeks + | 30-120 days typically |
| Medication Used | Yes | Depends on diagnoses |
| Benefits | Cleanse toxins Reduce pain and discomfort Manage withdrawal symptoms Lessen cravings Reduce anxiety Reduce stress Strengthen immune system Reinforce the ability to control behavior | Engage in individualized therapy Engage in group therapy Engage in family therapy Engage in therapeutic activities Receive psychiatric services Learn relapse prevention tools Strengthen support network |
What Does Recovery from Drug Addiction Look Like?
At the Encino Recovery and Detox Center in Los Angeles we don’t just treat addiction. We nurture the spirit, heal the mind and help you to regain your life.
We provide medically supervised detox. After detoxing, you may enter our residential treatment center. Trained staff are equipped to offer clinical care. They will provide the support, guidance and interventions necessary for you to reach your treatment goals. Participating in residential care greatly enhances your success rate at avoiding relapses.
Typical therapy approaches include:
- Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)
- Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT)
- Trauma-focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TF-CBT)
- Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT)
- 12-Step Program
- Somatic Experiencing and Body Work
- Mindfulness Meditation
- Exposure therapy
How to Know if I Need Rehab or Detox?
If you are experiencing the negative results of substance abuse and are ready to make a change, then both detox and rehab may be for you. Typically both are recommended, beginning with detox.
Safe Recovery in Los Angeles
If you or a loved one is seeking a way out of substance abuse, private, confidential help is just a call away. Reach out to our Admissions team at The Encino now.
Sources
[1] Diaper AM, Law FD, Melichar JK. 2014. Pharmacological strategies for detoxification. Br J Clin Pharmacol. Feb;77(2):302-14. doi: 10.1111/bcp.12245. PMID: 24118014; PMCID: PMC4014033.
[2] National Institute on Drug Abuse. 2014. Principles of Drug Addiction Treatment: A Research-Based Guide (Third Edition)
