Drug & Alcohol Detox

At New Wave Recovery Center, we understand that detox is a critical first step toward lasting sobriety and recovery.

Drug & Alcohol Detox

Recovery from addiction begins with detoxification from drugs or alcohol. During detoxification, the body clears itself of harmful substances while medical professionals manage withdrawal symptoms to ensure the process is as safe and comfortable as possible. At New Wave Recovery Center, we understand that detox is a critical first step toward lasting sobriety and recovery.

During detox, individuals experience the initial phase of recovery where the body rids itself of drugs or alcohol. This process can be physically and emotionally challenging, as withdrawal symptoms vary depending on the substance, duration of use, and the individual’s overall health. Medical supervision during detox is crucial, as it helps manage potentially dangerous symptoms like seizures, hallucinations, or severe dehydration. In addition to stabilizing the physical body, detox also prepares individuals mentally and emotionally for the next steps in recovery, laying the foundation for continued treatment through therapy and support programs.

What is Drug and Alcohol Detox?

Detox is the process of removing substances from the body while managing withdrawal symptoms. For those struggling with drug or alcohol use disorder, detox is the first step toward recovery. Detox and withdrawal produce mental and physical challenges when drugs and alcohol leave the body. While symptoms often vary in severity, detox can be dangerous if not done with the involvement of a licensed medical professional.

Drug and alcohol withdrawal can include:

Nausea and vomiting
Body aches and muscle cramps
Fever and chills
Runny nose and flu-like symptoms
Anxiety and panic attacks
Irritability and mood swings

Depression
Restlessness and agitation
Sleep disturbances and insomnia
Exhaustion and fatigue
Tremors and shaking
Sweating

Withdrawal symptoms can occur from illegal drugs, prescription medications, and alcohol. Symptoms and medical solutions vary based on several factors, including the type of substance consumed, the duration and extent of use, family history of addiction, the presence of co-occurring mental health disorders, and individual health factors.

The Detoxification Process

The detoxification process typically unfolds in three key phases:

Assessment and Evaluation

The first step involves a comprehensive initial evaluation where medical professionals assess your physical and mental health. They gather detailed information about your substance use history, any co-occurring medical or mental health conditions, current medications, and other relevant factors to create a personalized detox plan that addresses your specific needs and circumstances.

Active Detoxification

This is the actual process where your body begins eliminating drugs or alcohol from your system. As this happens, withdrawal symptoms typically set in. Depending on the substance, these might range from mild discomfort to more severe symptoms like nausea, anxiety, tremors, or potentially life-threatening complications. During this critical phase, medical staff monitor you continuously, providing support, medications, and interventions as necessary to manage symptoms safely.

Stabilization and Transition

Once the acute detox phase is complete and your body has stabilized, the focus shifts to preparing for the next steps in your recovery journey. This involves discharge planning, which could include transitioning into an inpatient or outpatient treatment program, continuing therapy, or enrolling in support groups to build long-term sobriety. Proper detox lays the foundation for these next steps, setting you up for success in ongoing treatment.

Detoxing at Home: Understanding the Risks

Detoxing at home might seem like a convenient or private option, but it can be extremely risky and is generally not recommended, especially for those with severe addictions or long-term substance use. Without proper medical supervision, withdrawal symptoms can become dangerous and, in some cases, life-threatening.

Serious complications that can arise during unsupervised detox include:

Seizures (particularly from alcohol or benzodiazepine withdrawal)
Severe dehydration and electrolyte imbalances
Heart complications and irregular heartbeat
Extreme blood pressure fluctuations
Delirium tremens (DTs) from alcohol withdrawal
Suicidal thoughts or behaviors
Relapse due to unbearable symptoms

A professional detox setting provides not only crucial medical oversight but also emotional support to help manage the physical and psychological discomfort of withdrawal. Professional detox facilities have the structure, safety protocols, and emergency response capabilities that home environments simply cannot provide.

Our Detox Referral Services

At New Wave Recovery Center, we recognize that safe medical detoxification is often the crucial first step in addiction recovery. While we don’t provide on-site detox services, we maintain strong partnerships with trusted local medical facilities and hospitals that specialize in alcohol and drug withdrawal management.

Our experienced admissions team will:

Assess your individual detox needs and medical history
Coordinate referrals to appropriate detoxification programs
Ensure you receive the level of medical care required for your safety
Provide guidance on what to expect during the detox process
Maintain communication with detox facilities to plan your transition
Be ready to welcome you into our comprehensive treatment programs immediately following medical clearance

We work closely with our partner facilities to create a seamless transition from detox directly into our evidence-based treatment programs, ensuring continuity of care throughout your recovery journey. Our team remains available to provide support and guidance during the detox process and will be prepared to begin your therapeutic work as soon as you’re medically stable.

After Detox: Continuing Your Recovery Journey

Detox clears substances from your body, but it’s only the beginning of recovery. The real work of healing begins after detox is complete. Most individuals benefit from transitioning into a structured treatment program to address the psychological, emotional, and behavioral aspects of addiction.

At New Wave Recovery Center, we offer comprehensive programs following detox:

Day Treatment (PHP):

Intensive 5-day per week program providing comprehensive care while allowing you to return home each evening. Includes individual therapy, group sessions, medication management, and family support.

Intensive Outpatient (IOP):

Flexible 3-day per week program with evening options available. Perfect for those balancing work or family responsibilities while receiving structured addiction treatment.

Outpatient Treatment:

Weekly individual and group therapy sessions focused on maintaining sobriety, relapse prevention, and long-term recovery skills development.

Our treatment approach combines evidence-based therapies like Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) with holistic healing approaches including yoga, meditation, sound healing, and energy work. We also provide dual diagnosis treatment for co-occurring mental health conditions and connect you with peer support networks and sober living resources.

After Detox: Continuing Your Recovery Journey

Get the Help You Need

Taking the first step toward recovery requires courage, and we’re here to support you through every phase of your journey. Whether you need immediate detox referral services or are ready to begin treatment following detox, New Wave Recovery Center is committed to helping you achieve lasting sobriety.

24/7 Admissions and Support

Phone: (978) 581-0568
Email: help@newwaverc.com

Our admissions team is available around the clock to help you or your loved one begin the recovery journey. We accept most major insurance plans and offer verification services to determine your coverage for addiction treatment. Our team will work with you to understand your benefits and develop a payment plan that works for your situation.

Don’t let another day pass struggling with addiction. Contact New Wave Recovery Center today to learn more about our detox referral services and comprehensive treatment programs. Recovery is possible, and we’re here to help you take that crucial first step toward a healthier, sober life.