5 Guidelines for Detox and Rehab

Making the decision to enter an alcohol or drug detox and rehab treatment program is an important choice that can help you get back control of your life; however it can frightening if you do not know what to expect, or worse, have heard the horror stories from individuals who could not make it through the treatment. Here are 5 guidelines for detox and rehab that can help you be better prepared and hopefully put your mind at ease.

1. Don’t Celebrate by Binge Drinking

Many individuals think that they will have one more night of drugs and alcohol before they go to detox and rehab. This is a mistake. Going on one last binge, will not only increase your risk for overdose, legal problems and putting others at risk, but you will have that much more alcohol and drugs in your system while you are going through the detoxification process, which will likely increase your withdrawal symptoms.

2. Don’t Quit Too Early

The same can be said of quitting too early as having one more binge. Some medical detox and rehab want you to stop certain types of drug use before you can enter the program and others may tell you to slow down within a day of treatment. The important thing to remember is that you are going to a program that specializes in helping people just like you, to overcome their alcohol and drug use.

3. Get Plenty of Rest

Before you go, make sure you get plenty of rest. It is also a good idea that you start to follow a healthy more nutritionally balanced diet. Drink plenty of water and stay hydrated. You may be thinking that you will get rest while you are in treatment; however detox can be draining on your system, so why not start out with some stored rest and nutrients.

4. Preparing to Leave

The facility most likely gave you an information packet of literature on the program as well as a list of things to pack, and what not to pack. Make sure that you take with you items that will keep your spirits up and happy. This will be a challenging time as you work to get the drugs and alcohol out of your system and prepare for a new life.

5. Getting Ready Mentally

As the day draws nearer for you to go, and throughout your time in detox and rehab, you may find that you are nervous and a little scared. This is normal. However, if you keep your mind on the positive outcome of preparing for a life that does not include drugs and alcohol, you will find that you will draw closer to overcoming your substance abuse or addiction.