What is a detox?
Once you’ve read the information and if you decide that detox could be the next step in your journey, please speak to your key worker. They can help you find a detox service that suits your needs. Your journey, your choice.
What detox means
Detoxification (detox) is the process of clearing the body of drugs or alcohol. The aim of detox is to safely manage withdrawal symptoms when someone stops taking drugs or alcohol.
Everyone’s experience of detox is different. It can depend on the substance you want to detox from, and how long you have been taking it.
When you have a detox in the inpatient unit of your choice, you will be given medications to ensure you are comfortable during the detoxification process. You will be fully supported throughout your detox by trained medical specialists, and staff who are trained to deliver workshops and to support your progress.
What people go to detox for
There is a range of drugs that you can be detoxed from. These include heroin, benzodiazepine, GBH and GBL, and synthetic cannabinoids. You can also go to detox to safely withdraw from alcohol.
How detox can help you
A detox programme can help you withdraw safely from drugs or alcohol in a comfortable and supportive environment. You won’t have to go through it alone and you will be supported every step of the way by medically trained staff. Going into an inpatient unit can also give you some much-needed time away from your surroundings to focus on yourself and your needs.
Inpatient units can also offer you support to stabilise you on your prescribed medications. The clinical staff will be able to help you to get the right dose for you.
How long detox takes
Depending on the substances you are using, detox placements can range from 7 days up to 28 days. This may vary between inpatient units.
Where you go to get support with detox
You have the option to choose an inpatient unit near where you live, or you may prefer to go to an inpatient unit further away from where you live. We have a range of options you can look at.
What you can do at a detox service
Most units offer a range of activities throughout your stay. This includes group sessions, art therapies, walks, and complementary therapies like yoga or meditation. It will depend on the individual detox service as to what activities they offer. You will also have free time, generally in the evening where you can watch TV or even use the gym (depending on the detox unit). You can contact any of the inpatient services directly if you would like to know more, or we can do that for you.
Support during a detox
All the inpatient units have a range of staff who will support you during your stay, to make you feel comfortable and look after your needs. Staff usually includes doctors, nurses, counsellors, support staff and people with lived experience.
Talking to friends and family about your detox
You can show your friends our website, and there is also a link for family and friends to find out more about detox and what support is available for loved ones.
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