Tag: Detox

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Alcohol Detox and Withdrawal: What to Expect During Treatment

Deciding to heal from alcohol addiction is exciting. You’re finally ready to reclaim control of your life and start reaping the benefits of sobriety. But it’s important to start your recovery safely. Detoxing and going through withdrawal are important first steps, but suddenly stopping or decreasing your drinking can be dangerous—even life-threatening.

Rehabs with detox programs offer a safe and more comfortable experience that can set you up for long-term success in your recovery.

Treatment for Alcohol Withdrawal During Detox

Each year, more than 1.5 million people in the U.S. go through alcohol withdrawal 1 in a rehab or a medical setting. And while even more people withdraw at home, alcohol withdrawal can be very dangerous, and in some cases lethal. It’s a good idea to detox with medical supervision so you can stay healthy, safe, and as comfortable as possible.

Where Can You Detox?

Options for detox include hospitals, inpatient rehabs, or outpatient programs. Which option is the best for you depends on your health history, severity of symptoms, and personal needs. For example, people who are more likely to develop severe symptoms like seizures may require hospitalization. People with co-occurring disorders may also need a higher level of care to protect their health. But others who experience less severe symptoms may be able to detox through an outpatient program that offers regular check-ins with a medical professional to ensure they’re staying safe.

Some residential rehabs offer medical detox onsite, which allows you to immediately move into a residential addiction treatment program afterwards. This can provide you with stability in early recovery by easing your transition into inpatient care.

How Long Does It Take To Detox From Alcohol?

Everyone’s detox and withdrawal timeline2 is different and depends on several factors:

  • How long and how much you drank
  • Family history of addiction and other health issues
  • Co-occurring disorders like depression, anxiety, or physical health conditions

Withdrawal can start just hours after stopping or reducing your drinking.3 But it can also take up to 48 hours for symptoms to set in. It’s most common for symptoms to peak between 24-72 hours after you begin detoxing. However, some symptoms may linger for weeks.

Alcohol detox programs usually last 3-7 days depending on your symptoms. It usually begins with an evaluation4 to get a better picture of your overall health and any pre-existing conditions that may cause complications, like high blood pressure.

Then, your treatment team will address your alcohol dependence, usually by using a stabilizing medication that’s tapered down over the course of your detox. This process minimizes withdrawal symptoms and lessens your risk of complications. Staff will closely monitor you, especially in the first 48 hours after you begin to detox as that’s when most symptoms set in. They’ll check your vitals, ask how you’re feeling, and may perform blood tests as necessary to check your hydration levels.

If you don’t develop any withdrawal symptoms after about 48 hours, you may be released into outpatient services. If you’re detoxing in a rehab, you may instead move to their inpatient center to begin their treatment program.

The goal of alcohol detox5 is to help you reach an alcohol-free state, relieve your symptoms, and address any co-occurring conditions to prepare you to enter addiction treatment.

Managing Withdrawal Symptoms

While withdrawal is typically uncomfortable, there are certain things you and your team can do to manage the symptoms and reduce your discomfort. When you detox in a facility, they’ll monitor your symptoms and adjust your conditions to relieve pain.

Medications

In many cases of alcohol detox, a doctor will prescribe certain medications to lessen withdrawal symptoms6 and prevent complications. Benzodiazepines are the most common medication for managing alcohol withdrawals.

Depending on your detox program and health history, your doctor may give you medication right away. People with physical health conditions or a history of severe withdrawal symptoms may take a single dose of a benzodiazepine prior to detoxing. Or, you might take medication only after presenting certain symptoms like seizures, high body temperature or blood pressure, or agitation.

Comfortable and Safe Conditions

Detox centers consciously design their spaces to make the experience more comfortable. The ideal environment for alcohol withdrawal is quiet with low lighting7 and minimal stimulation to keep you calm. To ensure patient safety, they will also not have any potentially dangerous substances or items in the room.

You may also have access to a therapist to talk through your feelings8 and cravings during this vulnerable time. And depending on the center, you may interact with others in the program for peer support.

Nutrition and Hydration

Your diet and hydration levels affect the severity of your symptoms9 and the development of complications. This is partly because alcohol addiction causes nutritional deficiencies that may prolong detox.10 And because detox is hard enough on your body, supporting it with healthy foods that may bring you joy is important.

Your detox center’s initial assessment may even include a nutritional evaluation. This tells your doctors exactly which nutrients you’re lacking. Depending on the results, your doctor may recommend vitamins or other supplements for the first 3-5 days of detox11 to address those deficiencies.

Your medical team will also keep a close eye on your fluid and electrolyte levels. In more severe cases, you may receive fluids through an IV. Staying hydrated can alleviate some withdrawal symptoms.

Understanding Alcohol Withdrawal

Studies show that over half of people who are dependent on alcohol experience withdrawal12 when they stop or slow their drinking. And 3-10% of people experience severe alcohol withdrawal. Withdrawal looks different for everyone, but it’s safest to have medical supervision to ensure your symptoms don’t become life-threatening.

What Causes Withdrawal?

While you might assume that withdrawal only happens when you completely stop drinking, you can actually start experiencing withdrawal symptoms from just decreasing your alcohol consumption.13 In fact, some people who are dependent on alcohol can start to experience withdrawal even at a blood alcohol level that would normally cause someone to feel very intoxicated. You may not realize how much alcohol your body is used to before you stop drinking, especially if you’ve been functioning “normally.”

Alcohol withdrawal causes imbalances in the brain,14 which lead to your symptoms. After a certain point of heavy drinking, your body—specifically your brain and central nervous system—become used to having alcohol in your system. Your bodily systems have learned to constantly adjust their functioning to compensate for the depressive effects of alcohol. So when you suddenly stop or reduce your drinking, your body doesn’t adjust as quickly and still operates on hyperdrive, causing withdrawals.

Symptoms of Alcohol Withdrawal

Certain symptoms of alcohol withdrawal15 are more common:

  • Tremors
  • A strong urge to drink
  • Sleep problems, including difficulty falling or staying asleep and intense dreams
  • Anxiety
  • Hypervigilance
  • Irritability
  • Loss of appetite
  • Nausea and vomiting
  • Headaches
  • Sweating

These symptoms typically start about 6-12 hours16 after you begin detoxing. While they may make you uncomfortable, they’re usually not life-threatening. However, you may also experience a more severe form of alcohol withdrawal called delirium tremens, which is more dangerous.

Delirium Tremens (DT)

Delirium tremens17 is a severe form of alcohol withdrawal. It’s most common in people who have chronically used alcohol in high quantities over the years, or consistently for months. Without proper treatment, it can be deadly. Early detection and professional treatment can prevent death or serious injury.

With DT, you’ll experience common symptoms of alcohol withdrawal, plus more severe symptoms:18

  • Seizures
  • Deep sleep for 24 or more hours
  • Sudden and extreme confusion
  • Feeling very excited or scared
  • Hallucinations
  • Quick bursts of energy
  • Sudden changes in mood
  • Fatigue
  • Light, sound, and touch sensitivity

If you do experience DT, you’ll probably need to stay in the hospital until your symptoms subside. Your medical team will check your vitals consistently. As dehydration is very common, they’ll test your blood for electrolytes levels and body fluid levels. They’ll also likely give you medicine to help you stay calm, prevent seizures, and lessen your symptoms.

DT symptoms typically start about 48-96 hours after you suddenly stop drinking and can last up to 5 days. However, sometimes it takes 7-10 days after your last drink for DT symptoms19 to begin. And some people even experience certain withdrawal symptoms like mood swings and fatigue for years after.

Post-Acute Withdrawal Syndrome (PAWS)

It’s common for people recovering from alcohol addiction to still experience withdrawal symptoms during rehab or even long after. This is called post-acute withdrawal syndrome (PAWS), or protracted withdrawal.

With PAWS, your withdrawal symptoms ebb and flow over time and may be triggered by stress. PAWS symptoms mainly resemble acute withdrawal symptoms, but there are a few additional ones to be aware of:

  • Concentration and memory issues
  • Decreased sex drive
  • Complaints of pain without a cause

PAWS can cause relapse,20 so it’s important to prepare yourself for it. While you may be ready to manage immediate withdrawal symptoms, coming to terms with prolonged withdrawal may be more difficult. In rehab, you’ll learn new coping skills to help you deal with these symptoms and prevent relapse. You can even ask your clinical team to help you come up with a plan ahead of time, so if you do begin to experience PAWS, you know what to do. Successful recovery is still very possible with PAWS.

Recovery: The Light at the End of the Tunnel

Detox is just the first step in your recovery journey—long-term recovery requires follow-up care, ideally starting with residential rehab. And while detox may not be the most pleasant experience, doing so in a safe, supportive place can help you stay sober, healthy, and well.

Search our list of detox centers for information on pricing, post-detox programming, and more.

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Why Choose Florida for Drug and Alcohol Detox: Climate, Care Options & Recovery

It’s hard to know what to expect from drug and alcohol detox. Some people need 24/7 medical attention. Others focus more on emotional recovery. But one thing’s true across the board: starting treatment in a beautiful place can make healing a little easier. That’s why so many people choose to attend detox centers in Florida. 

Sun in All Seasons

Florida’s tropical and subtropical climate boasts warm weather year round. So if your health permits, you might be able to spend time outside during detox. But the weather can make a difference even if you need to stay in your room. Data shows that just looking at a beautiful view can help you heal.1 

Thanks to the state’s 825 miles of coastline, Florida rehabs cater to people who love the beach. And even if you’re not ready to go off-site during detox, that culture has a direct impact on treatment. For instance, most centers have outdoor pools and patios where you can relax and enjoy the sunshine. With these amenities, you can stay as comfortable as possible in any stage of recovery.

chapel hill medical detox room
Experts at Chapel Hill Medical Detox in West Palm Beach say clients who attend “medically assisted detox are more likely to stay in treatment longer.”

What Happens During Detox?

Detox is often the first step in addiction treatment. And it can be overwhelming. You’ll probably experience both physical and emotional symptoms during withdrawal:2

  • Restlessness
  • Mood swings
  • Irritability
  • Depression
  • Changes to appetite
  • Nausea
  • Vomiting
  • Diarrhea
  • Sleep disturbances

These symptoms are different for everyone. And they can be more severe if you have other health issues, or if you’re healing from certain addictions. It’s especially important to get expert medical care during detox from alcohol,3 opioids,4 or benzodiazepines.5 Without proper treatment, withdrawal from these substances can be life-threatening. 

In a reputable detox program, your care team might include some or all of these specialists: 

These experts provide care during inpatient detox. They can also help you plan for what comes next.

Types of Treatment in Florida’s Detox Centers

Detox is more than a medical process. It’s also a time to prepare yourself for long-term addiction recovery. You can set yourself up for success in a program that shares your values. And Florida’s luxury detox centers support patients with a wide variety of recovery goals. 

gulf breeze recovery beach
Gulf Breeze Recovery in Gulf Breeze combines top-notch medical care with holistic detox treatments.

Medical Detox

According to the team at Chapel Hill Medical Detox in West Palm Beach, clients who attend “medically assisted detox are more likely to stay in treatment longer.”6 With this approach, doctors and nurses will support you through early recovery. You might taper off drug use instead of stopping cold turkey, or take non-addictive medications to help you stay comfortable. And when you’re ready, you’ll probably start seeing a talk therapist or other counselor. 

Programs like these are a good fit for people who need close supervision during detox. Inpatient medical detox provides round-the-clock care, keeping you safe as you adjust to life without drug use. But it’s not the only way to begin addiction treatment. 

Outpatient Detox

Sometimes, it can be better to detox in the comfort of your own home. This might be important for celebrity clients who need strict confidentiality, or people with pressing family commitments. If you’re physically healthy and you have a strong support network, you can consider outpatient detox.

In most of these programs, you’ll live independently but attend daily appointments on-site. Clients get medical and psychiatric care, and may connect with each other in group therapy. If this sounds like a good fit for you, make sure you talk to your doctor before starting treatment. While outpatient detox can make recovery more accessible, it’s not a safe option for everyone.

Holistic Treatment

Medical treatment is an essential part of detox—but it isn’t everything. Centers like Gulf Breeze Recovery combine top-notch medical care with holistic detox treatments. For example, you might get a massage between talk therapy sessions. Or you could learn to manage cravings with mindfulness techniques. This integrated approach helps you get to the root cause of your addiction, so you can heal from the inside out. 

agape detox center facility
Agape Detox Center in Port St. Lucie evaluates each client’s lifestyle, health history, and risk factors for addiction to create a unique plan of care.

Individualized Care

The healing process is different for everyone. That’s true in every stage of recovery, from withdrawal to aftercare. So some of Florida’s rehabs tailor the detox process to suit each client’s needs. 

The team at Agape Detox Center, for example, takes a “targeted, whole-health approach” to recovery. They evaluate each client’s lifestyle, health history, and risk factors for addiction. That information helps them design your unique plan of care. That plan will likely include talk therapy, medical treatment, and nutritional support. In bespoke treatment, you’ll learn more about your own needs. And with that knowledge, you can go on to build a life you love. 

Comprehensive Recovery

Compared to residential rehab, detox doesn’t last very long.7 For most types of addiction, withdrawal symptoms subside in a few days to a week. But that’s not the end of addiction recovery. 

Many detox programs require you to have a long-term treatment plan before you even arrive. Usually, that means enrolling in a residential rehab program. So when you complete detox, you can go directly to your next treatment center (in Florida or elsewhere).

Some Florida rehabs make this process much easier. Providers like Immersion Recovery Center offer both detox and residential recovery. You can still detox in one program and go to rehab in another, but you don’t have to. Instead of moving, you can focus on the transition that matters most: your healing process. 

Comprehensive Care in the Sunshine State

In many places, detoxing from drugs or alcohol can be isolating. That doesn’t have to be true in the Sunshine State. These bespoke programs could be a great fit if you love warm weather—even if you plan to enjoy it through your bedroom window. 

Some of the best rehabs in Florida known for their quality care also accept Medicaid and other state insurance options for individuals seeking treatment and recovery.

Explore Florida’s detox centers to find a program that’s right for you.

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Yes, Massage Therapy Can Treat Addiction

Addiction affects every aspect of your being: mind, body, and spirit. As you lose yourself in drug abuse, these parts of your identity disconnect from each other. For some people, that disconnect has a major impact on physical health. 

When you can’t tell how your body feels, you can’t care for it properly. You might ignore issues great and small, from hunger to serious medical symptoms. Or, you might start feeling like drug use is the solution to every problem. But that just isn’t sustainable. 

If you choose a rehab program with massage therapy, you can get back in touch with your body during recovery. And when you feel safe inhabiting your own body, it’s much easier to make sense of your thoughts and feelings. 

How Does Massage Help With Recovery?

For most people, it’s easy to look forward to this treatment. Most types of massage feel good, both during and after the session. And you might just want to relax in between emotionally taxing talk therapy sessions. Massage lets you keep moving toward recovery, but feel like you’re taking a break. 

More importantly, massage has many benefits for people in recovery.1 It can help people in treatment for depression, anxiety, and even eating disorders. Massage can even alleviate some of the symptoms associated with PTSD, like dissociation. And of course, it can also improve your physical health.

Physical Benefits of Massage for Addiction Recovery

Massage has well-documented physical benefits for almost everyone. It can relieve muscle tension, joint pain, and more complex issues, like headaches. Massage therapists with some types of training can even treat serious chronic illnesses. But most people associate massage with pain relief. 

Pain Relief

Massage alleviates physical pain2 for a few reasons. On a mechanical level, it releases muscle tension and brings your joints into alignment. Over time, this teaches clients to maintain better body mechanics. Those healthy habits may protect you from future injuries.

On a neurochemical level, massage interrupts your nerves’ ability to process painful stimuli.3 Neutral or pleasurable touch stimulates the same nerve fibers that send pain signals. And according to the gate-control theory of pain, they can only process so much information at a time. As a result, being touched in a non-painful way can actually stop you from feeling pain. 

This can be helpful for anyone, but it’s uniquely important for people with some addictions. Chronic pain often leads to opioid addiction.4 If you have both of these issues, you’ll need to learn healthier ways to manage your pain. Massage can help with that, in every stage of recovery. 

Withdrawal

When you stop using drugs, you might go through withdrawal. Depending on your specific health history, you may even attend a medical detox program. Supervised detox is essential if you’re healing from alcohol, benzodiazepine, or opioid abuse. 

Data supports massage as a treatment for alcohol withdrawal.5 It’s no substitute for medical attention, but it can be a valuable aspect of your care plan. And in addition to its physical benefits, it may help you find emotional relief from the stress of detox.

Emotional Benefits of Massage Treatment in Rehab

There’s a fine line between physical and emotional health. In some holistic philosophies, they’re seen as one and the same. Depending where you go to rehab, you may be able to get a massage designed to treat mental health issues.

A growing body of research supports this application of massage therapy. Andy Bernay-Roman is both a massage therapist and mental health counselor. In his book, Deep Feeling, Deep Healing, he writes, “feelings are not disembodied experiences of some separate ‘mind’, but rather, are contained in a very physical biochemistry that modulates and marks every bodily event.”6 From this perspective, massage can have a direct impact on emotional well-being.

Neurochemical Effects

Addiction changes the way your brain’s reward system functions.7 The act of taking drugs releases dopamine, a neurotransmitter associated with pleasure. Over time, that dysregulates your brain chemistry. If you have a serious addiction, drug use might be the only thing that makes you feel a sense of accomplishment. 

Massage increases levels of dopamine,8 serotonin, and oxytocin. All three of these neurochemicals are related to good feelings: 

  • Dopamine makes you feel satisfied. 
  • Serotonin has an impact on happiness, which is why some people take selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) to treat depression. 
  • Touch releases oxytocin,9 a chemical that encourages social bonding. 
  • Massage also decreases cortisol, which is commonly known as “the stress hormone.”

Any of these effects can improve your mental health. But for people with addiction, dopamine regulation might be the most important. Massage doesn’t only help you feel better during the stress of residential treatment. It can also play a role in the neurochemical process of recovery. 

Cravings

Massage can reduce the severity of cravings.10 That’s especially true for people with certain addictions. For example, self-massage can help you quit smoking. Some types of bodywork may even decrease opioid cravings.11 More research is needed on this subject, but the available data is promising.

Cravings can be both physical and psychological.12 But because massage affects both your body and mind, it can protect against relapse in either case. Over time, this can empower you to build a more stable life—and sense of self.

Self-Awareness Is a Form of Self-Care

Receiving a massage is a deeply personal experience. As the provider draws your attention to your own body, you may notice areas of tension or pain for the first time. And that’s not only a physical process. It can also happen on an emotional level. 

Massage improves self-awareness13 and mindfulness. Cynthia Price, Ph.D. and L.M.T., writes that “by paying attention to thoughts, feelings, sensations—our internal life—we become more aware of internal cues and thus more able to engage in self-care.” And self-care is an essential part of ongoing addiction recovery. In this process, you’ll learn how to meet your own needs in a sustainable way. That often means letting go of things you want—or things you’re craving—to make room for better habits. 

Self-care is hard work, but it can also be comforting. The American Massage Therapy Association (AMTA) reports that “all addictions are about self-soothing.” So are most types of massage.14 Bodywork helps people in recovery unwind in a safe way. And “giving them a pathway with which they can connect to their bodies can be enormously empowering,” AMTA experts explain. This is especially helpful if you’re healing from trauma.

Trauma-Informed Massage

Addiction is usually related to trauma. Some people start taking drugs to self-medicate PTSD. And no matter what led to your drug use, addiction also causes trauma.15 These experiences can leave you with both physical and mental health concerns. 

Massage can treat the symptoms of trauma.16 It relieves pain, depression, anxiety, and irritability. It can also mitigate more complex issues, like dissociation and isolation.

Dissociation

When you dissociate, you may feel disconnected from yourself or your surroundings. This survival strategy is usually a symptom of trauma. If it’s not safe to be in your own body, your mind creates a sense of distance. During a traumatic event, this is adaptive. But in response to a trigger, it can range from being inconvenient to putting you in real danger. Dissociating while you’re watching a movie might be frustrating. But dissociating while you’re driving a car is a serious problem. 

Massage reduces dissociative symptoms17 in clients with a history of trauma. This treatment helps you reconnect with your body, on your own terms. You can also practice setting boundaries that feel right to you. That skill keeps you safe in your own body, and it empowers you to build healthier relationships.

Interpersonal Skills

Touch is a form of communication. Even if you don’t speak, you’ll communicate with your massage therapist throughout every session. You might tense up if they use too much pressure, or wiggle your fingers if your hand falls asleep. They’ll even notice when the rhythm of your breathing changes. And that will inform how they communicate with you. 

Massage teaches you how to connect with another person in a structured way. Treatment is interpersonal, but not social. You’ll learn to describe your boundaries clearly, and answer questions about yourself. And if you forget to say something, you’ll be able to mention it during the massage. There’s plenty of space for you to make mistakes, correct them, and try again in your next session. 

Trauma can make you feel like you don’t have control over your own life. When you have an addiction, that might even be true. During rehab, massage can show you how it feels to have authority over your own body. You have the right to set clear boundaries. And in any modality of massage, you can trust that your therapist will respect them, and act in your best interest.

Types of Massage Therapy

Most cultures have developed their own styles of massage therapy. And many of these are now popular worldwide. But if you’d like to get a certain type of massage during recovery, make sure to ask whether it’s available at your rehab.

Swedish Massage

This is one of the most common forms of massage in the Western world. When you go to a day spa in the U.S., for example, you can assume it offers Swedish massage unless otherwise specified.

Swedish massage uses long, gentle strokes to relax the body.18 It may also include some invigorating movements, like kneading or tapping. Many massage therapists have training in both Swedish massage and other modalities. They may even combine different approaches during a session. For example, many deep tissue massages begin with Swedish techniques. These lighter strokes function as a warm-up before the therapist applies deeper pressure.

Deep Tissue Massage

Deep tissue massage is very popular, even though it’s not a formalized treatment modality. These sessions are less relaxing, and more focused on solving specific problems. If you have acute pain, or chronic pain caused by a muscle injury, this approach might be a good fit for you. 

Thai Massage

Thai massage is very different from most Western techniques.19 This form of bodywork is more active than Swedish massage, for example. Both the practitioner and the client are fully clothed throughout the session. Your provider will use their hands, feet, knees, and elbows to perform various stretches and compressions. 

Thai massage is ideal for people who want to improve their mobility. It can also be relaxing, but it’s unlikely that you’ll fall asleep during a session. The providers at Jintara Wellness Center and Rehab, in Chiang Mai, offer massage as one aspect of holistic recovery.20 Treatments are designed to improve your physical fitness and energy levels. You can expect to move around during these sessions, instead of lying still on a table.

Ayurvedic Massage

Ayurvedic massage originated in India, and is available at many rehabs there. At Abhasa Rehabilitation Center – Coimbatore, for example, this style of massage is an important part of recovery. Sessions include the use of special oils and herbs, tailored to meet each client’s needs. This combination of physical touch and aromatherapy activates your “sensory and olfactory organs21 through sweet and subtle fragrances, thus rejuvenating the mind, body, and spirit.”

This type of bodywork is an aspect of Ayurvedic medicine. You may receive massage in combination with other therapies, as part of a larger care plan. Whether you’re getting holistic Ayurvedic treatment or not, make sure to talk to your healthcare team before an Ayurvedic massage. It may have wide-ranging benefits–but it may not be the right treatment for you. It depends on your personal health history.

Should You Get a Massage?

Massage is hugely beneficial for most clients. But this treatment shouldn’t be taken lightly. It has a significant impact on your physical and mental health, and even your body chemistry. This can be an issue for people with certain health issues, including addiction. Make sure to talk to your care team before getting any type of bodywork. 

Massage therapists are trained to recognize both local and absolute contraindications.22 In layman’s terms, a contraindication is a reason not to give someone a massage. With a local contraindication, like a papercut, the therapist will skip that body part. An absolute contraindication means the person shouldn’t get treatment at all. 

These standards may be different in various traditions of bodywork. One issue may be an absolute contraindication in Thai massage, but treatable in the Ayurvedic style. And some of these concerns might surprise you. For example, most Western styles include the following contraindications:

Local Contraindications

  • open wounds of any kind, including burns and severe rashes
  • warts23
  • varicose veins

Absolute Contraindications

Some of these conditions might not seem serious. Many people even schedule massages because of them. For example, if you have a mild cold, bodywork might sound comforting. It’s your therapist’s job to protect your health by setting clear boundaries. To help them do that, you should give them as much information about your own health as possible. That way, they can make decisions that keep both of you safe.

Massage and Drug Use

Massage is absolutely contraindicated while you’re under the influence of drugs or alcohol.22 These providers are highly trained, but they’re not doctors. If you have a bad reaction to a drug during the session, they might not know how to help. 

Drug use also interferes with your ability to communicate. During the intake conversation, you might forget to share important information. And during the massage itself, you may respond differently than you would while sober. But nonverbal communication is an essential part of massage. If the therapist can’t understand what your body is telling them, they can’t properly treat you. 

It’s especially dangerous to get a massage when you’ve been drinking.26 Because treatment increases circulation, it amplifies the effects of alcohol. This can increase your risk of alcohol poisoning. And in addition, alcohol acts as a pain reliever. This makes it even more dangerous to get bodywork.

Taking painkillers of any kind can interfere with a massage.27 This still applies when you take them as prescribed, or use mild medications like Advil. Because these drugs dull your senses, you might not know if the therapist is using too much pressure. As a result, they might accidentally injure you. But if you’re taking painkillers as directed, you might still be able to get a gentle massage. Tell your therapist in advance, so they can decide whether it’s safe.

Get Back in Touch With Yourself

Through massage, you can get to know yourself again. Reconnecting with your body will give you new insight into your own needs. And that insight empowers you to build a life you love. 
Connect with a rehab that offers massage therapy to learn more about the styles of body work they offer, other available treatments, pricing, and more.

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Treating Addiction With Acupuncture

Acupuncture is an ancient Chinese healing modality. And in recent decades, it’s also grown popular in the U.S. Millenia of use show that it can safely treat a wide variety of conditions.

Many rehabs offer acupuncture as part of a holistic approach to recovery. It isn’t meant to replace traditional options like talk therapy and medication, but it can still be an effective and important part of treatment. 

What is Acupuncture?

Acupuncture is a form of traditional Chinese medicine (TCM).1 In most sessions, the practitioner inserts a number of small needles into your skin. Each needle is carefully placed to achieve a particular goal. Some practitioners also offer these alternative types of acupuncture:2

  • Electrical stimulation, also known as “electroacupuncture,” moves electrical pulses through the needles. One study found that this slowed down heart rate, increased relaxation and tranquility, and decreased tension and distress.
  • Laser acupuncture uses light instead of needles. This option may be best for people who don’t like needles, and it’s proven just as effective as traditional acupuncture.
  • During warm-needling, or heat acupuncture,3 the practitioner inserts warm needles into the body.

Acupuncturists are licensed professionals with extensive training. If you get acupuncture in rehab, you may have regular sessions throughout your time there. The clinician will likely create a long-term plan of care, and track your progress after each treatment. 

What Happens During an Acupuncture Session?

In your first acupuncture session,4 the practitioner will take your health history. You’ll describe any current symptoms, and they’ll perform a physical exam. During the session itself, your provider will use needles to stimulate acupuncture points. There are about 350 of these points located on 14 meridians on the body, each with a different purpose. The clinician will plan needle placement around your physical, emotional, and spiritual needs. 

Next, you’ll lie down in a calm and quiet treatment room. The acupuncturist will insert needles into various parts of your body. These needles are much smaller than the ones used in most medical procedures. While you may feel some discomfort when they’re first put in place, the process is rarely painful.

In most acupuncture sessions, the provider will then leave you alone for 10-20 minutes. You can use this time to relax, meditate, or process any emotions that come up. Then the acupuncturist will return and remove the needles. They may ask you about your experience, or even perform another physical exam.

Because this is a holistic treatment, it can help you heal every aspect of yourself. This includes physical, emotional, and spiritual concerns. Acupuncturists aim to achieve this by improving the flow of qi, or vital energy.

What is Qi, and Why is it Important?

Acupuncture is based in the belief that the flow of vital energy through the body can impact your health. Acupuncturists refer to this vital energy as qi.4

Qi moves through the body via meridians, or distinct energetic channels. If the meridians get blocked, the flow of qi is interrupted. Acupuncture uses needles to break up these blockages. This helps qi flow freely again, and reach a state of equilibrium. Once your qi is in balance, you can reestablish physical and spiritual wellness. 

Side Effects and Limitations

Most people find that acupuncture doesn’t hurt.4 Some clients experience numbness or a small amount of pain or tingling. This is actually called “de-qi,” and may be a sign of successful treatment. If you’re a candidate for acupuncture, there is a very low risk of serious side effects. 

However, this treatment isn’t safe for everyone. You should avoid acupuncture4 if you have any of the following conditions: 

  • an active infection, especially involving the skin
  • cancer
  • a decreased white blood cell count
  • psychosis or delusions

Make sure you talk to your provider about any concerns before your first session. You can also consult with your doctor to make sure this treatment is safe for you.

How Effective Is Acupuncture?

Experts have been using acupuncture to treat various health concerns for centuries. Despite this, Western scientists call for more scientific data on the subject. This is partly because the research that’s currently available shows promising results. 

Physical Health

Studies show that acupuncture is effective at treating many conditions,4 including the following:

  • back pain
  • knee pain
  • headaches
  • muscle pain
  • hot flashes
  • nausea and vomiting

It not only helps with ongoing issues; acupuncture can also treat acute pain.5 Research even suggests that for some clients, it can replace opioid use. This may be especially helpful for clients healing from addictions related to chronic pain.   

Mental Health

If you’re in addiction recovery acupuncture might be a viable alternative to prescription drugs.6 Data suggests this therapy can treat many diagnoses, like anxiety and depression. 

Acupuncture is especially good at alleviating depressive symptoms7 for clients who engage in ongoing treatment. This might even mean that you continue to get acupuncture after you leave rehab. 

Acupuncture for Addiction

The World Health Organization (WHO) recognized acupuncture as a legitimate treatment for substance abuse8 in 1996. Today, over 700 rehab facilities offer acupuncture as part of addiction treatment.

One of those centers is The Hope House Scottsdale. “Addiction disconnects mind from body, so we work on reconnecting the two,” explains Brenna Gonzalez, clinical director. Her team uses acupuncture to help clients strengthen the connection between mind and body. This treatment can have a powerful impact on people in every stage of addiction recovery.

Detox and Withdrawal

Acupuncture can help reduce the severity of some withdrawal symptoms.6 It is especially helpful for emotional symptoms, like anxiety. More research is needed to determine whether acupuncture can help with the physical symptoms of detox.9 But because this treatment has few negative side effects, it may be worth trying in any stage of recovery.

Accessible Treatment

Auricular acupuncture, or “ear acupuncture,”10 uses needles to stimulate parts of the ear. This localized treatment lets clients stand and walk around during the session. It may be a good option if you can’t comfortably sit still for long periods. Research suggests that this type of acupuncture can effectively treat several types of addiction.8

Acupuncture Can Reduce Cravings and Prevent Relapse

Acupuncture may help the body find homeostasis6—a healthy state of biochemical balance. Experts believe that acupuncture can affect the same neurotransmitters that regulate addictive behavior. Treatment may minimize cravings, helping you guard against relapse.

Is Acupuncture for You?

Acupuncture is a powerful treatment method. This therapy balances your energy, helping you gather strength for your ongoing recovery journey. If you’d like to take a holistic approach to healing, this therapy might be a good fit. 

Browse our list of rehab programs that offer acupuncture to learn more about their amenities, treatment philosophies, and other alternative therapies.

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Finding Treatment for Cocaine Addiction

Cocaine addiction can wreak havoc on a person’s life. And once you’re caught in the cycle of substance misuse, healing may seem out of reach. That’s a misperception. Recovery is always possible. For some people, rehab for cocaine addiction is the best place to start.

“Cocaine is the most commonly reported illicit stimulant used in the U.S.”1 Because its abuse is so common, this drug has been the subject of widespread research. As a result, many treatment programs are well-equipped to help patients recover from cocaine misuse.

The Prevalence of Cocaine Addiction

Cocaine is a stimulant2 derived from the coca plant native to South America. It can briefly increase a person’s energy, self-confidence, sociability, and mood. Because the effects of cocaine3 are so short-lived, it can quickly become habit-forming. Long-term use may cause less desirable effects, such as cause paranoia, hypersensitivity, and irritability.

The history of cocaine4 is strongly connected to mental health. In fact, its popularity can be traced back more than a century. “In 1884, Sigmund Freud detailed his experiments with cocaine, recommending it for treatment of opiate addiction and melancholia.” However, he did not account for its negative effects, and reportedly struggled with addiction for much of his life. Unfortunately, his endorsement of the drug helped make it socially acceptable for some time, for both medical and recreational purposes.

Reported drug abuse statistics5 paint a clear and distressing picture of cocaine use today. According to the National Center for Drug Abuse Statistics, 2% of people in the U.S., or 5.5 million people, reported taking cocaine in 2018. As of 2022, more recent data is not yet available. Researchers also caution against comparing current data about drug use and health6 with surveys taken before 2020, since the COVID-19 pandemic has changed the way surveys are conducted.

Cocaine use can have serious ill effects on both physical and mental health. Deaths caused by cocaine overdose in the U.S.7 have skyrocketed in recent years, increasing from nearly 4,000 in 1999 to nearly 16,000 in 2019. Because cocaine increases blood pressure8 and heart rate, it may cause strokes or respiratory failure. “Even first time users may experience seizures or heart attacks, which can be fatal.”

Because of these potential outcomes, cocaine misuse is extremely dangerous. However, patients don’t develop substance use disorders by choice. You may be highly susceptible to addiction despite your own better judgment, or desire to remain healthy. And some patients may be at a higher risk for developing a psychological dependence on cocaine.

Risk Factors for Cocaine Addiction

Certain demographics are especially vulnerable to cocaine misuse. Patients who exhibit one or more of the following risk factors may be at higher risk for this condition, or may require specialized care.

Adolescence

Teenagers may be more susceptible to developing cocaine addictions.9 Relative to adults, “adolescents show greater intake of cocaine, acquire cocaine self-administration more rapidly, work harder for the drug and are less sensitive to increases in price.” In layman’s terms, young people do more of this drug than adults, and are willing to work harder to obtain it.

Adolescents also face social pressures that may not impact adult behavior. Specifically, many teenagers develop substance use disorders10 while trying to fit in with their peer groups. Parents of adolescents should take note of any drastic behavioral changes, as these may indicate the onset of addiction. Teens with substance use disorders may show less interest in activities they used to enjoy, pay less attention in school, or start spending time with new friends who encourage these behaviors. By itself, any one of these signs may be a normal part of adolescence; however, sudden and extreme behavioral changes can be a cause for concern.

Novelty-Seeking Personality Traits

According to one study, “cocaine addiction has been associated with several distinct behavioral/personality traits.” For example, novelty-seeking behavior is associated with cocaine abuse.11 And in particular, people with sensation-seeking tendencies may be more vulnerable to cocaine use. However, people with high impulsivity are more vulnerable to cocaine addiction.

These traits may be genetic, learned, or influenced by a person’s environment and life circumstances. More research is needed to understand the link between personality, behavior, and substance use disorders.

Neurochemical Effects of Cocaine Use

Cocaine has a direct effect on the way the brain processes dopamine, which regulates the reward system.12

During normal brain activity, this neurotransmitter is released, binds to dopamine receptors, and is then recycled by a protein called the dopamine transporter. “If cocaine is present,” however, “it attaches to the dopamine transporter and blocks the normal recycling process, resulting in a buildup of dopamine in the synapse, which contributes to the pleasurable effects of cocaine.”13

In the short term, this can be enjoyable. In the long term, however, cocaine use can change brain function.14 The drug causes neurochemical imbalances, which make it difficult for the patient to feel a sense of pleasure or achievement without substance misuse. Over time, “the brain will gain a tolerance to feelings of pleasure and it will take more and more of the drug to achieve the same level of euphoria.”

What’s more, the act of abusing any substance affects dopamine levels.15 This is because the experience of ingesting a drug can trigger the release of the chemical, whether or not that drug has an effect on dopamine levels. This feeds into the cycle of addiction, in which the patient continues using illicit substances in order to feel any sense of reward. This effect is amplified with substances that have a direct effect on dopamine to begin with.

Treatment for Cocaine Addiction

Substance use disorders are treatable. No matter how long you’ve been using cocaine, or what impact it’s had on your life, change is always possible. And because its misuse is so prevalent, experts have been perfecting cocaine addiction treatment options16 for decades.

At present, “there are no medications approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration to treat cocaine addiction,17 though researchers are exploring a variety of neurobiological targets.” However, there are a number of effective therapeutic and behavioral interventions. And the first step toward healing is to learn about the options available.

Detox

Cocaine withdrawal18 may or may not have any physical symptoms. Unlike alcohol and opiates, detox from this substance is rarely life-threatening. That being said, it can be extremely uncomfortable and psychologically distressing.

If at all possible, it’s best to go through this process under medical care. If you attend a detox program, you’ll be closely monitored by a team of doctors, nurses, and therapists, possibly including a psychiatrist. Patients may receive non-addictive prescriptions to help them manage the symptoms of withdrawal. This experience can also help you transition into a longer-term rehab program.

Learn More: What You Need to Know About Detox

Rehab

Studies have shown that long-term rehab for cocaine dependence can be extremely effective.19 By attending a residential program, patients can take time away from triggers and difficult life circumstances, which may have been caused or exacerbated by their substance use. During that time, they can begin talk therapy, attend support groups, and make plans to live a healthier, more sustainable life after treatment.

Psychotherapy

Several therapeutic modalities can be effective in treating cocaine misuse. Researchers are most optimistic about contingency management (CM), a behavioral therapy that activates the patient’s reward system.

According to one study, contingency management is “perhaps the most effective psychosocial treatment” for cocaine use disorder.”20 In this treatment, patients receive vouchers redeemable for goods and services in the community, contingent upon achieving a predetermined therapeutic goal. CM treatment has been found to be especially effective in promoting initial abstinence from cocaine.”

Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) has also been shown to help these patients, although it may not be as productive as CM. This might be because CM has a more direct impact on brain chemistry, whereas CBT is skills-based.

Long-Term Recovery From Cocaine Addiction

Patients with a history of cocaine abuse can improve dramatically. In fact, detox and recovery from cocaine misuse can help you recover brain function.21 One 2017 study provided “early evidence that individuals with cocaine use disorder have the potential to at least partially reverse prefrontal cortex damage accompanying cocaine misuse, and regain associated cognitive abilities important for executive functions when cocaine use is stopped or significantly decreased.” In other words, you may be able to physically heal your brain during recovery.

But healing isn’t just about physical improvement. It’s also the process of building a better life. And in order to achieve that, patients must stay focused on recovery even after completing inpatient treatment. This ongoing commitment to healing may include regular talk therapy, attending support groups, or other modalities. For example, some studies have found that “greater participation in self-help programs” is an important factor in sustained recovery from cocaine dependence.22 ((McKay, J. R., Van Horn, D., Rennert, L., Drapkin, M., Ivey, M., & Koppenhaver, J. (2013). Factors in sustained recovery from cocaine dependence. Journal of Substance Abuse Treatment, 45(2), 163–172. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jsat.2013.02.007))

Building a Better Life

When you have a history of substance misuse, recovery is often a lifelong process. That being said, it is absolutely possible to live a fulfilling life without cocaine use. Healing can even be fun! As you recalibrate your internal system of rewards, it’s important to do things you find enjoyable and exciting.

As you learn to make healthier choices, you can also begin building a new kind of confidence. And, best of all, you won’t be held back by the destabilizing pattern of substance abuse. Over time, you may find that joy is both more accessible and more sustainable.

If you’re ready to begin recovery, you can find a rehab center that treats cocaine addiction here.

Frequently Asked Questions About Cocaine Addiction Treatment

What are the treatment options for cocaine addiction?

Treatment options for cocaine addiction often include a combination of behavioral therapies, counseling, support groups, and medication in some cases. Individualized treatment plans are designed to address the specific needs of each person seeking recovery.

How long does treatment for cocaine addiction typically last?

The duration of treatment for cocaine addiction varies depending on factors such as personal progress, treatment goals, and circumstances. Treatment usually ranges from 2 weeks to 60 days. Some people benefit from longer treatment and ongoing aftercare support.

What should I look for in a luxury rehab for cocaine addiction?

When searching for a luxury rehab for cocaine addiction, it’s important to consider factors like clinical expertise, the level of personalized care, comfort, staff credentials, and confidentiality. It’s also important to verify accreditation and success rates. Most centers list accreditations directly on their site; CARF and the Joint Commission are the most common accreditation bodies.

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Holistic Detox in California

Detoxing from substance misuse can be challenging and even dangerous. To do so successfully, most people need professional care. And because recovery looks different for everyone, that care might include medical treatment, talk therapy, or holistic healing. You can find all of these modalities at detox centers in California.

The Golden State is known for its natural beauty, amazing weather, and focus on holistic health. Many California rehabs also cater to elite clients. Both detox and long-term recovery programs in this area can offer support to meet your unique needs.

Recovery Begins With Detox

Alcohol and drug detox1 is the process of interrupting the physical or psychological dependence on substances. It will almost certainly be physically uncomfortable, and it may also have greater risks. Detoxing from certain substances, like alcohol and opiates, can be dangerous without proper medical supervision.

As you progress through the various stages of detox, you may experience symptoms such as anxiety, difficulty sleeping, tremors, and intensified cravings. Because of these concerns, it’s best to begin this process in a detox facility with trained staff on hand. Many private residential treatment centers employ medical doctors, nurses, psychiatrists, and talk therapists. This team of experts is there to keep you safe and comfortable throughout the process.

During inpatient detox, you may have access to several therapeutic modalities. For example, you may be prescribed non-addictive medications to help alleviate symptoms of withdrawal. You might also speak with a talk therapist, or even connect with fellow clients. Gratitude Lodge, for example, has a strong focus on community care. According to their team,

“Detoxification can be the most difficult part of early recovery, which is why we offer personalized care, group therapy support and an encouraging environment.”2

Many rehabs offset the discomfort of detox with extremely comfortable surroundings. You will likely have a private room, a TV, and even access to wifi while in detox. Some programs actively encourage clients to stay in touch with friends and family during their stay, getting support from loved ones at every stage of healing.

Who Is a Candidate for Detox?

Anyone ready to stop misusing substances is a candidate for detox. No matter which substance you’ve been using, whether you have a physical dependence on it, or how severe your substance use disorder is, detox can be a helpful place to start. That being said, it’s not necessary for everyone. Some clients may be able to safely detox without close medical supervision, depending on their specific history of substance use.

There are many different ways to approach detox, and some of them can be inappropriate or even unsafe for certain clients. When you’re ready to begin this process, start by learning more about the various programs available.

Medical Detox for Physical Dependence

Certain substances are more likely to cause physical dependence,3 which occurs “when a person requires one or more drugs to function. Abruptly stopping the substance may cause physical symptoms of withdrawal.” If you’re physically dependent on a substance, it’s extremely important that you stop using it under close medical supervision.

Detoxing from alcohol, opioids, or benzodiazepines can be especially dangerous to attempt on your own. If you struggle with any of these substances, it’s best to begin recovery by consulting with a medical professional. Depending on your specific health history, you may be given certain medications to help with detox.4 It’s absolutely vital that these medications be prescribed by an expert who is well-acquainted with your health history.

Because withdrawal from alcohol, opioids, and benzodiazepines can have such challenging side effects, some programs focus on helping clients heal from using these specific substances. AToN Center, in San Diego, is one such detox center. They offer a 3-to-1 ratio of staff to clients,5 ensuring that every resident gets the attention they need and deserve. After detox, clients may decide to enter their longer inpatient program, which treats a greater diversity of conditions.

aton center
Located in San Diego, AToN Center’s residential grounds are designed to promote comfort throughout the detox and recovery process.

It’s important to remember that detox, like the rest of recovery, is an extremely personal process. Although you may be temporarily focused on your physical symptoms, you can also expect to go through a series of extreme emotions. Because of this, it’s important to find a program that also offers support for mental health.

Holistic Detox for Psychological Dependence

The physical symptoms of detox can be overwhelming, and even dangerous. But the emotional aspect of healing is just as important. Some substances, like crack cocaine, have minimal physical withdrawal symptoms.6 Despite this, the cessation of any illicit substance can have an extreme and immediate impact on brain chemistry and mental health.

Detox may be an appropriate way to begin recovery, even for clients without physical dependence on substances. Although certain programs, like AToN, only treat physical withdrawal, other rehab centers are open to anyone with a substance use disorder.

And even if you have no physical withdrawal symptoms, you may still face some serious risks. Many clients experience severe mental health symptoms during detox,7 such as depression, suicidal ideation, anxiety, and more. When you begin recovery, it’s absolutely vital to get the care you need, especially at first, while your brain chemistry is changing quickly. You don’t have to do it alone or in isolation. On the contrary, you can choose to have this experience in a beautiful, inspiring setting.

Attending a Detox Program in California

Rehab programs in California tend to offer holistic detox, with a focus on sustainable health and wellness. Many of these treatment facilities offer personalized treatment, which honors the unique goals of each individual client. Because of this, California’s detox centers offer a wide variety of services.

Medical Care in a Natural Setting

Many people entering recovery have more than one diagnosis. You may have a co-occurring mental health diagnosis, a chronic physical illness, or a condition that developed in response to substance misuse, like a nutritional imbalance. And any of these conditions may require medication that impacts the process of detox.

It’s absolutely possible to recover from more than one condition at a time, but doing so requires expert medical care, tailored to meet your needs. At Monarch Shores, for example, clients work with an on-staff doctor who “will design an individually tailored medication regimen that reduces any discomfort or pain, any gastrointestinal issues, reduces or completely eliminates tremors and shakes, allows you to sleep, reduces anxiety, and improves cognitive functioning.”8

monarch shores house 1 outdoor sand
Clients can soak up the views of Southern California’s beautiful coastline while detoxing at Monarch Shores in San Juan Capistrano.

And in beautiful, temperate California, this medical attention doesn’t have to be isolating. Even if you spend most of your detox inside the facility, you can enjoy a view of the surrounding landscape. And when you’re ready, you may be able to spend some time exploring or simply relaxing in the fresh air. For many clients, communing with nature is an extremely important part of holistic healing.

Drug-Free Detox

Some clients may prefer to detox in an even more natural way, without using any medication. This strategy may be a good fit for people without co-occurring disorders, who want to have a more spiritual experience of recovery.

This type of holistic healing can do more than help you detox; it can also teach you healthy, sustainable habits for self-care. At The Holistic Sanctuary, in Baja California, clients follow a personalized treatment plan that may include massage, Reiki, yoga, nutrition counseling, and other similar modalities. Clients receive no medications, although they may have access to alternative treatments such as ibogaine therapy.

Drug-free detox is not appropriate for everyone. If you’ve been using alcohol, opiates, or benzodiazepines, this can be extremely dangerous. The same is true for people with additional diagnoses that require daily medication, including physical and mental health concerns. If you’re interested in this type of healing, be sure to get approval from a medical doctor in advance.

Whatever medications you do—or don’t—use during detox, remember that physical healing is just one facet of recovery. Some California rehabs offer complementary therapies that are designed to treat physical, mental, and behavioral health.

Complementary Therapies

Sometimes the detox process offers more than just medical attention. Detox programs here may combine medication-assisted treatment with psychotherapy and holistic approaches like massage or music therapy to ease withdrawal symptoms and improve the detox experience.

Certain experiential therapies may be too physically strenuous for clients in detox. Your healthcare team will be on hand to help you decide which activities will best support your recovery process. In early detox, you may benefit most from relaxing with a good book, listening to music, or just sleeping. Following this, many clients benefit from talk therapy, nutrition counseling, and similar modes of healing.

Detox Is Just the First Step

Detox is an effective way to begin recovery, but it’s only the beginning. There are some dangerous myths about addiction treatment,9 including the idea that detoxification “cures” substance use disorders. On the contrary, although it ​​can be successful in cleansing the person of drugs and withdrawal symptoms, detoxification does not address the underlying disorder, and thus is not adequate treatment.” One study in particular found that patients who followed detox with formal inpatient treatment had “significantly better” outcomes.10

Some clients choose a long-term rehab facility before they even enter detox. Otherwise, you may be able to plan your next steps during this initial stage of recovery. At most rehabs, your providers will help you plan for the future, ensuring your continuity of care after detox.11

Life After Detox

Your experience of detox can set the tone for the rest of your recovery process. Although it only lasts a short time, you may have experiences that inform some important long-term decisions. Because of this, it’s important to choose a detox program that aligns with your values.

There’s no right or wrong way to go about recovery. Although it’s not necessary for everyone, detox can be helpful for anyone. If you’d like to begin this process in an environment that focuses on holistic health, one of California’s programs might be a good fit.

To learn more about this process, you can browse our list of detox programs in California.

Frequently Asked Questions About California Detox Centers

What types of services are offered at California detox centers?

California detox centers offer a wide variety of services, including medical treatment, talk therapy, and holistic healing modalities. These centers provide personalized care to meet individual needs, offering support for both detox and long-term recovery.

Is medical supervision necessary during detox at California detox centers?

Yes, medical supervision is crucial during detox, especially when coming off of substances like alcohol and opiates. These substances can have dangerous withdrawal symptoms, and detoxing without proper medical supervision can be risky. Detox centers employ trained staff, including medical doctors, nurses, psychiatrists, and therapists, to ensure clients’ safety and comfort throughout the process.

What are the benefits of holistic detox at California detox centers?

Holistic detox combines medical care with a focus on sustainable health and wellness. These centers offer personalized treatment, honoring each client’s unique goals. Clients receive expert medical care in a natural setting, where they can enjoy beautiful surroundings and commune with nature. Holistic detox also provides an opportunity to learn healthy, sustainable habits for self-care and may include complementary therapies like massage, yoga, and nutrition counseling.
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Why Choose Residential Rehab? 8 Benefits to Consider

When it comes to addiction treatment, there’s no one, universal approach. Psychologists and medical experts today have a better understanding of substance use disorder treatment than ever before. We now know that everyone’s path to recovery is unique and that there are many different ways to heal.

Some people want to keep up with daily responsibilities and have a strong support system at home. For these people, an outpatient program may be the best fit. Others might find their support network lacking, or face everyday stressors that could hinder their recovery efforts. In these cases, attending a residential rehab might be a more effective choice.

Residential rehab, also known as inpatient rehab, isn’t just for people who need distance from their everyday environment. Residential treatment provides you with round-the-clock care, the opportunity to fully focus on achieving your sobriety goals, an empathetic community of people undergoing similar experiences, and other supportive aspects, from on-site detox opportunities to a peer support network.

1. On-Site Detox Opportunities

Residential rehab can be an appropriate option for clients who require specialized treatment, including those who are concerned about substance withdrawal. It can be physically and psychologically uncomfortable or even dangerous to quit certain substances cold-turkey following prolonged use. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), withdrawal symptoms from substances like opioids, alcohol, and stimulants1 can range from anxiety, headaches, and nausea to delirium, hallucinations, and seizures. For this reason, undergoing detox under the supervision of experienced professionals is the safest option.

With this in mind, some inpatient rehabs provide on-site detox services. Completing a safe, medically supervised detox at the same location as your program can result in a smoother transition into treatment.

In contrast, Boston Medical Center’s HealthCity platform reports that the period following detox can “be a dangerous time if it doesn’t lead to continued treatment.”2 This is because the possibility of relapse combined with the risk of unintentional overdose. In a study by the Grayken Center for Addiction at Boston Medical Center, out of 30,681 patients who were admitted to a detox facility, those who didn’t receive any treatment in the month following the detox program had the greatest mortality rates.3 By 12 months after detox, 2% had died. On the other hand, “the greatest mortality reduction, 89%, was seen among the few patients who received both medication and an inpatient residential stay within the month following detox.” These rates show a vital benefit to continuing treatment as soon as possible post-detox.

The length of an average detox program is 3 to 7 days. However, if you’re detoxing from certain substances like benzodiazepines, withdrawal symptoms can persist even after you’ve completed the program. In these cases, it’s valuable—and potentially life-saving—to have access to experienced medical staff on campus. Any continuing withdrawal symptoms can then be addressed and treated alongside therapy to help with deeper issues.
Some residential rehabs that don’t offer on-site detox work closely with detox centers in the area and can help with the transition from detox to addiction treatment.

2. A Structured Schedule

Whether it’s pressure at work or friction at home, day-to-day life is full of triggers. These triggers can lead to substance use that disrupts your daily schedule. In turn, a lack of structure in your day can produce ripe conditions for engaging in damaging habits. This is where residential rehab programs can offer unique support. When you live on-site at a facility, you’ll be following a fully scheduled treatment program.

A typical schedule at a residential center often includes opportunities for individual therapy, group meetings, and recreational activities. Medical support is also incorporated into the day’s program. Most residential programs also allow participants some downtime to unwind and digest what they’re learning. But regular schedules are strongly featured, though the level of intensiveness may vary from program to program. This routine can serve to close the gaps in time that allow cravings to grow and instead help you fully concentrate on your recovery. Time and attention that you would otherwise spend on household, family, and job responsibilities can go on pause during inpatient treatment. All scheduled activities share the goal of providing opportunities for you to give attention to yourself and your needs. At the end of the day, the most important item on your agenda at residential rehab is to work on changing your life.

Sierra Tuscon offers an example of a well-structured day at rehab.

“The residential treatment structure at Sierra Tucson makes for a busy day. Typically, individuals will wake up somewhere between 6:30 and 7:00. They receive support from nursing and our residential safety coaches in the morning, followed by breakfast and then a lodge meeting. Later in the morning, they’ll go to group lectures, group therapies, complete a two-hour process group and then they’d have a number of individual appointments. When the day starts to close down, they go for dinner and join wind-down group activities, which are meditative or artistic expressions. Finally, they end with a lodge meeting, connecting with peers, and say gratitude for the day. We start the day by setting intentions and end the day with gratitude.”

– Dr. Chasleen Chhatwal, Chief Medical Officer, Sierra Tuscon

3. A Helpful Change of Scenery

A change in environment can have a positive impact on brain chemistry,4 according to research published in the journal Nature Neuroscience. “New and diverse experiences are linked to enhanced happiness, and this relationship is associated with greater correlation of brain activity, new research has found.”

Going away for addiction treatment may provide you with the motivation you need to work on your relationships with the goal of rebuilding them when you return. On the other hand, creating physical distance can encourage emotional separation from bad influences. The time away can be a good start in distancing yourself from destructive relationships, whether you’re beginning to create permanent boundaries or taking a break to regroup and consider your options.

A change of scenery can also be a catalyst for a change in perspective. In fact, behavioral health experts recommend that we “place ourselves in situations and locations that spark growth.” But what if our regular environment seems to spark only negativity? Spending time away in different surroundings and participating in new experiences can help us view life through a different lens. This, in turn, can assist us in moving away from a negative mindset and toward a more positive outlook on life.

It’s worth noting, too, that triggers may not necessarily come from toxic relationships or stressful situations. They may also come from the mundane sights, sounds, or smells that are present in our everyday environments. Physically stepping away from these possible triggers can do a world of good and can help you find freedom from some of the basic, yet sometimes unnoticed, habits of addiction. You’re less likely to encounter some of those signals that trigger cravings when you’re in the organized, healing-focused environment of a residential facility.

4. An Immersive, Sober Environment

Residential rehabs provide a sober living environment. In most accredited rehab centers, you wouldn’t have access to the substances that could jeopardize your recovery. These centers provide an environment that’s carefully formulated to be conducive to your sobriety. This confidence can help you cope emotionally during the challenging phase of coming off of substances and transitioning into the deeper work of recovery.

5. An Understanding Peer Support Network

According to studies conducted by the U.S. National Institute of Health (NIH) on groups and substance abuse treatment,5 “Groups intrinsically have many rewarding benefits—such as reducing isolation and enabling members to witness the recovery of others—and these qualities draw clients into a culture of recovery. Another reason groups work so well is that they are suitable especially for treating problems that commonly accompany substance abuse, such as depression, isolation, and shame.”

These benefits can be attained in the residential rehab setting. Some are hesitant to seek treatment because of the stigma associated with substance abuse. But entering a residential treatment environment can connect you with people who truly understand the suffering that addiction brings. Clients benefit from the social dynamics at rehab facilities since they provide group support and opportunities to improve interpersonal and communication skills.

The professionals you’ll meet on campus act as understanding guides, while your recovery peers’ shared experiences create a sense of camaraderie. This environment fosters a valuable sense of connection that, in turn, can be empowering. Even meals shared with people who can relate to what you’re going through can provide comfort when you need it most.

6. Personalized Care

A person in residential treatment can truly focus on themselves, free from the constraints they left at home. It might seem difficult at first to put other obligations aside along with destructive habits, but one-on-one therapy sessions can help clients begin caring for themselves again. Opportunities to express your feelings in a confidential setting with a trustworthy therapist can help you stay on course throughout the process. Studies even show that building rapport between counselor and client can contribute to a higher possibility of continuing recovery.6

Residential rehabs offer a wide variety of programs that can cater to different clients’ needs. Since you’ll be spending considerable time at a facility, you may find it helpful to choose a treatment format that suits your personal philosophies. Many residential facilities, for example, include faith-based rehab programs; others may offer a form of animal-assisted therapy or a pet-friendly environment. Other centers may place a greater emphasis on family participation. With so many options, clients have a better chance of finding the right center for their unique set of needs. This can provide a measure of comfort during a challenging time.

7. Incorporated Complementary Therapies

According to the U.S. National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health (NCCIH), complementary therapies are non-mainstream therapy approaches7 that are used together with conventional treatments, such as talk therapy. If non-mainstream therapy is used instead of conventional medicine, it’s considered “alternative therapy.” The research shows that “most people who use non-mainstream also use conventional health care.”

Following are some examples of complementary therapies:

An important aspect of many residential rehabs is the incorporation of complementary therapies as an integral part of the treatment experience. Residential facilities that utilize these therapies recognize that this can help clients learn more about themselves by breaking old patterns and experiencing something new. Complementary therapies can integrate different aspects of a person’s thinking besides just the psychological component involved in talk therapy.

In some circumstances, talk therapy may not be as conducive to healing. Those who have experienced trauma, for example, may even risk becoming retraumatized by talking about their experiences. This is why, for example, many PTSD sufferers drop out of exposure-based therapy before seeing any results.

On the other hand, complementary therapies allow clients to access their emotions in a different, relaxing, or fun context. This can actually help them become more receptive to treatment. For example, art therapy can immerse you in the process of creative expression and open the door for breakthroughs that you may have never expected. These benefits can be a key part of the therapeutic experience and are part of the program at many residential treatment centers.

Complementary therapies are important for healing.

“In the wintertime, we’re able to go out and take advantage of skiing or snowshoeing and hiking in the mountains. In the summer we have activities like fly fishing and rafting, so that individually and together, clients can also have fun. Fun and play are super important to getting well.”

– Ryan Soave, Director of Program Development, All Points North Lodge

Whitney Armistead on All Points North’s hospitality team adds, “We offer a lot of holistic approaches to our clients’ healing process, including massage, Reiki, detox facials, a float tank; anything we can do to help our clients relax and help reset their bodies.”

8. Aftercare Provisions

Recovery doesn’t end once your time in rehab is up. Setting clients up for success when they leave residential therapy is a practical and important component of treatment. According to the U.S. National Institute of Health, “There is convincing evidence that continuing care can be effective in sustaining the positive effects of the initial phase of care.”8 With this in mind, residential rehab facilities may arrange for aftercare provisions:

  • Continuing individual therapy
  • Partial hospitalization programs (PHPs)
  • Intensive outpatient programs (IOPs)
  • Support groups (12-Step and non-12-Step)
  • Activity – or interest-based groups

Exploring Your Options for Residential Rehab

Unplugging from your everyday surroundings for a time can be a wise choice in taking the first steps toward recovery. Making this significant life change requires time, focus, and the support of experienced treatment professionals.

Residential rehab can help by affording you the time and space you need to focus on getting well. This immersive environment provides a way to disconnect from potentially toxic relationships and surroundings, as well as important opportunities to share this journey with others who understand what you’re going through. And the complementary therapies and recovery-friendly facilities at residential treatment centers can provide enjoyable ways to access and heal new parts of yourself.

Frequently Asked Questions About Residential Rehab

What are the benefits of residential rehab?

Residential rehab offers several benefits: 

• On-site detox at some centers
• Round-the-clock support
• A structured environment 
• A break from triggers
• Access to medical professionals
• Personalized treatment plans
• Therapeutic activities
• Peer support

These benefits enhance the chances of successful and long-lasting recovery.

What kind of treatment plans are offered in residential rehab?

Residential rehab offers treatment plans tailored to individual needs, although the level of personalization depends on the center. Treatment plans often include evidence-based therapies, individual and group therapy, and complementary therapies. Types of therapies and treatments vary based on the facility.

How does residential rehab provide 24/7 support?

Residential rehab provides round-the-clock support through a team of dedicated professionals. They offer continuous monitoring, guidance, and assistance. This level of support helps create a safe environment for individuals to navigate their recovery journey.

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Detoxification: Frequently Asked Questions

Detoxification is the first step in addiction treatment for many people. We’re here to help you learn more about what it entails, what it feels like, and whether or not you can detox at home.

Understanding Detox

How Does Detox Work?

Detoxing is the process of allowing substances to leave your system and managing withdrawal symptoms that may follow. Your substance use history will affect your detox experience and determine whether or not you need medication-assisted treatment.

A few hours after you stop using substances, your body begins to recalibrate as they leave your system. During this adjustment period, you may develop withdrawal symptoms, which occur in stages:1 early, peak, and late.

Early stage: Generally 6 to 12 hours–or even up to 30 hours after you’ve stopped using–mild withdrawal symptoms like anxiety or difficulty sleeping may occur.

Peak stage: At the peak stage, symptoms are at their worst and can include vomiting, tremors and chills. This usually occurs 72 hours after you’ve stopped using opiates or 24 to 48 hours after you’ve stopped drinking. Because of the discomfort, relapse is likely during this stage. It’s important to have a strong support system around you, along with medical supervision.

Late stage: At this stage, your body is starting to get used to the absence of substances. Any withdrawal symptoms you may have had will start to die down.

Why supervised detox? Remember that the purpose of a supervised detox is to minimize the severity of withdrawal symptoms and ensure you’re safely clearing your body of substances.

When Is Detox Required?

Whether or not you need detox depends on your history of substance use, including factors such as the type of substance used as well as the duration and level of use.

Withdrawal from certain substances, such as benzodiazepines or alcohol, can be life-threatening. That, combined with the physiological effects of frequent exposure to substances,2 means it’s recommended to receive a medical evaluation from a medical professional before attempting to detox.

You may want to consider getting an evaluation for detox if you notice the following signs of substance or alcohol abuse, as outlined in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5):

  • Cravings for substances
  • Using more substances than you plan to
  • Inability to cut down or stop substance use
  • Taking substances for longer than intended
  • Trouble maintaining relationships due to substance use
  • Continuing to use substances, even when it negatively impacts your life

Can I Detox From Drugs at Home?

For your safety, it’s never recommended to detox from drugs at home without supervision.

Not all substance detoxification is lethal. However, withdrawal from certain substances, such as alcohol withdrawal, can potentially be life-threatening.3 More serious symptoms include hallucinations, seizures, and delirium tremens.

It’s always safest to detox under the supervision of specialized, experienced medical professionals.

You don’t always have to go through detox at a hospital or rehab facility. If you have a strong support system at home and your condition doesn’t require hospitalization, you may be able to opt for outpatient detox.4

How Long Do I Need to Detox For?

How Long Does Detox Typically Last in Rehab?

The duration of the detoxification process in rehab depends on your substance use background and the substance you’re detoxing from. On average, detox takes 3 to 7 days.

The time it takes to detox from commonly used substances varies:

  • Alcohol: 5 to 7 days
  • Benzodiazepines: One day to several months until treatment is introduced
  • Opiates: Up to 7 days (however, it’s possible to develop post-acute withdrawal symptoms5 that last weeks, months, or even years)
  • Cocaine: Up to 7 days
  • Heroin: 5 to 7 days

Detoxing From Different Substances

Alcohol

Do I Need to Detox From Alcohol?

Whether or not you need to detox from alcohol depends on how long and how much you’ve been drinking.

The media often portrays people who are addicted to alcohol as living disarrayed lives. The truth is, addiction can affect anyone—many people suffer from high-functioning alcoholism. If you notice signs of alcohol addiction, you may consider getting an evaluation for detox:

  • drinking more, or for a longer, than intended;
  • trying to stop drinking, but being unable to;
  • spending a lot of time drinking or dealing with the aftereffects of drinking;
  • continued drinking even when it negatively interferes with work or relationships;
  • and more.

Alcohol detox carries a high risk for potentially life-threatening withdrawal symptoms, like delirium tremens (DT).6 It’s safest to detox from alcohol under medical supervision.

If you plan to attend rehab, most residential facilities require you to be substance-free for a certain period of time before starting treatment. You can find out whether or not you’ll need to detox from alcohol during the admissions process. You have several options for detox, including on-site detox at certain rehabs.

Can I Safely Detox From Alcohol at Home?

No. Complications from alcohol withdrawal7 can pose severe to life-threatening side effects. It’s never recommended to detox from alcohol at home.

Side effects like delirium tremens (DT) can lead to chronic memory disorders or life-threatening seizures. DT side effects often don’t show up until 2 to 3 days after you’ve last ingested alcohol.

Even if you don’t experience life-threatening side effects, because of the extreme discomfort of withdrawal, you’re more likely to relapse if you try to detox from alcohol at home8 in comparison to detoxing under medical supervision.

How Long Does It Take To Detox From Alcohol?

It usually takes about 5 to 7 days to detox from alcohol.

What Does Alcohol Detox Feel Like?

Most people experience varying levels of discomfort when detoxing from alcohol. As alcohol leaves your system, you can experience mild to severe alcohol withdrawal symptoms:9

  • Sleep disturbances, like insomnia
  • Nausea
  • Vomiting
  • Sweating
  • Irritability
  • Tremors
  • Headaches
  • Anxiety
  • Visual and auditory disturbances
  • Cardiovascular complications, like rapid heart rate
  • Muscle pain and stiffness

The discomfort alcohol withdrawal causes can lead people to relapse, especially if they try to detox alone at home.

When you detox under medical supervision, clinical staff help monitor your condition, soothe your symptoms, and offer round-the-clock support. Detoxing under medical supervision enhances both your safety and comfort.

Benzodiazepines

Can I Detox From Benzodiazepines at Home?

You should never try to detox from benzodiazepines, or “benzos,” alone at home.

Unsupervised withdrawal from benzodiazepines can result in life-threatening side effects.10 Because of the potential severity of these withdrawals, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration recommends “patients taking benzodiazepines should not suddenly stop taking them11 without first discussing a plan with your health care professional for slowly decreasing the dose and frequency.”

It’s also not recommended to quit cold turkey following long-term use; a large number of people have reported negative and long-lasting side effects of benzo withdrawal.12

How Long Does It Take To Detox From Benzodiazepines?

It takes one day to several months (until treatment is introduced) to detox from benzodiazepines. Withdrawal symptoms such as anxiety, vomiting, and nausea peak within the first 14 days after you last ingested benzodiazepines.

What Does Benzodiazepines Detox Feel Like?

Detoxing from benzodiazepines can present a wide range of uncomfortable side effects. Because detoxing from benzos can be so uncomfortable, one of the goals of medically supervised detox is to help soothe patients’ discomfort while ensuring their safety.

Some of the most commonly prescribed benzodiazepines13 include Valium, Xanax, Halcion, Ativan, and Klonopin. They have similar withdrawal symptoms, however, Xanax may cause more severe symptoms.

When you detox from benzodiazepines after your body has become physiologically dependent on them, you may experience mild to severe withdrawal symptoms:

  • Headaches
  • Increased anxiety
  • Sweating
  • Racing heartbeat
  • Insomnia
  • Muscle spasms
  • Nausea or vomiting
  • Restlessness
  • Hand tremors
  • Aches and pains

Benzos withdrawal symptoms occur in stages and depend on your history of substance use.

Stage 1: You may first notice short-lived symptoms such as anxiety and insomnia within 1 to 4 days of benzos discontinuation.14

Stage 2: Peak withdrawal symptoms occur in the second stage, which many people describe as the most difficult phase to overcome. This usually lasts 10 to 14 days.

Stage 3: An estimated 10 to 25% of people who use benzodiazepines for an extended period of time experience post-acute withdrawal symptoms,15 or PAWS. During this stage, you’ll notice a return of anxiety and other withdrawal symptoms until you begin to address them with some form of professional addiction treatment.

Opioids

What Does It Feel Like to Detox From Opioids?

Detoxing from opioids can present highly uncomfortable psychological and physical effects16 depending on your past substance use and severity of dependence. These symptoms can arise whether you’re detoxing from medically prescribed pain relievers like oxycodone, hydrocodone, and codeine, or illicit opiates, such as heroin.

During detox, as substances leave your system, you’ll begin to experience withdrawal symptoms. The extent of these symptoms depends on your substance use history, severity of use, and whether you’re detoxing from immediate-release opioids17 (such as morphine) or extended-release opioids18 (such as methadone), as defined by the CDC.

Opioid withdrawal symptoms19 are often uncomfortable. They can include anxiety, rapid heart rate, muscle pain, runny or watery eyes, nausea and vomiting, insomnia, and more.

Opiate withdrawal can be lethal.20 It’s always recommended to detox under the guidance of an addiction-specialized healthcare professional.

With short-acting opioids, withdrawals typically begin 8 to 24 hours after your last use. With long-acting opioids, withdrawal symptoms can onset 12 to 48 hours after the last use.

How to Detox From Opioids

While usually not life-threatening, opiate withdrawal can be lethal. Therefore, you should always detox from opiates under the guidance of a qualified healthcare professional.

Whether you detox at a hospital, private detox center, or on-site at a residential rehab facility, you should have healthcare workers available to you 24 hours a day.

If you were using short-acting opioids, withdrawal symptoms will onset 8 to 24 hours after your last use. For long-acting opioids, withdrawal symptoms present themselves 12 to 48 hours after last use.

Mild opioid withdrawal management:
If you have mild withdrawal symptoms, treatment providers will ensure you consume 2 to 3 liters of water a day, along with vitamin B and C supplements to replenish lost fluids. They will also observe and monitor your symptoms 3 to 4 times a day using a Short Opioids Withdrawal Scale (SOWS).21

Moderate to severe opioid withdrawal management:
Clinicians will follow the same management techniques as with mild withdrawal cases. However, they may also use medication to minimize the severity of symptoms.

It should be noted that while detox is the first step in addiction treatment, it should be followed up with an addiction treatment program to create lasting changes to addictive behaviors.

How Long Does Opioid Detox Take?

It may take up to 7 days for opioids to fully leave your body. However, withdrawal symptoms may last longer than that.

For immediate-release opioids, withdrawal symptoms can last 4 to 10 days. For extended-release opioids, withdrawal symptoms can last 10 to 20 days

Depending on your opioid use background, it’s possible to develop post-acute withdrawal symptoms (PAWS).22 These can last weeks, months, or even years after you’ve last taken opiates. Some of these symptoms include memory issues, irritability, and depressed moods.

There is treatment for PAWS, which can be administered over the period of time you’re experiencing symptoms. Aftercare is critical to addiction treatment. If you’ve completed a treatment program, your aftercare counselor or therapist can help you identify PAWS symptoms and recommend a treatment plan. Or, you can search for rehabs that offer detox programs and speak to an intake specialist about PAWS treatment.

Cocaine

How long does it take to detox from cocaine?

It takes up to 7 days to detox from cocaine. Cocaine withdrawal symptoms are generally more psychological than physical and can include agitation, depression, anxiety, and other effects on your mood.

Where can I Detox?

You can detox at several different types of facilities. While it should be noted that not all at-home detox is lethal, detoxing from certain substances can pose life-threatening risks. It’s always recommended to detox under the guidance of a healthcare professional.

You can undergo substance abuse detox at several types of facilities:

  • Hospitals
  • Residential rehabs (not all inpatient rehabs offer on-site detox)
  • Private detox centers

How Long Do Withdrawal Symptoms Last?

On average, it takes 3 to 7 days for substances to leave your system. However, withdrawal symptoms can persist even after you’re substance-free.

Alcohol withdrawal timeline: Withdrawal symptoms from alcohol typically begin about 6 hours after you’ve last ingested a drink. They can last up to 72 hours after your last drink. In more severe yet rare cases, moderate withdrawal symptoms, such as alcohol hallucinosis, can last for up to a month.23

Benzodiazepines withdrawal timeline: Withdrawal symptoms from benzodiazepines usually last 10 to 14 days. However, some people can develop post-acute withdrawal symptoms (PAWS), which is a return of withdrawal symptoms several months after last use.

Opioid withdrawal timeline: For immediate-release opioids, withdrawal symptoms can last 4 to 10 days. For extended-release opioids, withdrawal symptoms can last 10 to 20 days. Depending on your substance use history, it’s also possible to develop PAWS from opioids. These symptoms may last weeks, months, or even years after you’ve last taken opioids.

Cocaine withdrawal timeline: Withdrawal usually begins 90 minutes following the last dose. Cocaine withdrawal symptoms,24 such as irritability and cravings, can last up to 10 weeks depending on your level of dependency.

Detox Costs

How Much Does Detox Cost?

The cost of detox This depends on the substance you’re detoxing from, the level of care, the length of treatment, and the detox facility.

In the U.S., the cost of detox at a private rehab can range from less than $10,000 to over $75,000 per month. Since the Affordable Care Act (ACA), most of these private rehab centers accept insurance.

To learn more about your options for detox treatment, browse through our list of detox centers.

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Natural Wellness at Mexico Rehabs

During rehab, you’ll have the opportunity to take a step back from unhealthy habits. By creating space between yourself and your daily life, you can gain a new perspective. If you go to rehab in Mexico, that distance can be both physical and philosophical.

Many of Mexico’s luxury rehab centers take a holistic approach to healing. During your stay, you won’t just attend talk therapy; you might also change your eating habits, get physical exercise, or take up meditation. These programs may even offer medical treatments that aren’t available in most areas, such as ibogaine therapy.

When you consider the area’s vibrant culture and beautiful landscape, it’s easy to see why so many facilities emphasize healthy lifestyles. Luxury rehabs in Mexico take full advantage of these resources, offering clients the opportunity to explore the countryside during treatment.

Mexico Is More Than a Tropical Paradise

Many people think of Mexico as having a tropical climate.1 And indeed, more than half of the country is located south of the Tropic of Cancer. As a result, the weather in that area is temperate, varying little from one season to the next. However, depending on your elevation, the average daily temperature may be as high as 77 degrees Fahrenheit (25 degrees Celsius) or as low as 59 degrees Fahrenheit (15 degrees Celsius). North of the tropics, in regions like Baja California and the Sonoran desert, temperatures vary more widely throughout the year.

The country has some highly populous areas, like Mexico City, as well as many rural destinations. While some rehab centers are close to downtown districts—and may even take their clients on shopping trips—most are located in remote areas. This gives clients the opportunity to retreat from the hustle and bustle of urban life, and to commune with the natural world. In these programs, clients are often invited to explore the surrounding landscape, using experiential therapy as one mode of healing.

Experiential Therapies in Mexico Rehabs

Mexico is “one of the world’s more biologically diverse countries”,2 encompassing vast deserts, tropical rainforests, mangrove swamps, and alpine ecosystems.” Its beautiful beaches are also popular travel destinations. In some programs, clients can visit these areas during treatment. While these experiences can be fun, they’re also important components of healing. Experiential therapy is known to have many benefits for people in recovery from substance use disorders.

Sports by the Sea

Depending on which program you attend, you may have access to a wide variety of seaside activities. At Twilight Recovery Center, for example, clients may go scuba diving. These experiences allow you to commune with nature while also getting exercise.

Mexico scuba diving
Mexico offers a variety of seaside activities, like snorkeling and scuba diving.

Substantial research supports the idea that exercise can benefit people in recovery from substance use disorders.3 While they may be physically challenging, these experiences are both safe and closely supervised. They also give you the opportunity to develop or improve a skill, build relationships with your cohort, and observe your own emotional responses in a new context.

For people who prefer not to engage in sports, there are many other ways to enjoy the beach. In some seasons, you may be able to go whale watching or witness the release of sea turtles. Some rehabs also take clients on fishing trips and boating tours. These experiences may be more accessible for some clients, depending on their physical condition.

Equine Therapy

Some Mexican rehab facilities, like Hacienda del Lago, invite clients to go horseback riding, or simply spend time among horses. A growing body of research has found that equine therapy has great benefits for people in recovery from substance use.4

This experience is “more than just a break from treatment.” It also lets you practice building relationships, without the pressure of connecting with other people. Many clients report that horses mirror their own behavior and emotions. This has important implications for people who are learning, or relearning, how to regulate difficult feelings in new contexts.

Hiking

Many rehab programs take their clients on regular excursions to visit naturally beautiful areas. Clients at Rē Precision Health, for example, may get the chance to explore waterfalls, beaches, and even the jungle.

Practitioners at this facility strongly believe in the healing effects of nature. This view is supported by a growing body of research, which demonstrates “significant associations between nature experiences and positive mental health outcomes”5 Like so many of the therapies available at Mexico’s rehabs, this holistic experience allows you to engage both body and mind.

Ibogaine Therapy in Mexico

In addition to experiential therapies, some rehabs in Mexico offer access to certain pharmaceutical treatments that are hard to find in other countries. In particular, ibogaine is an increasingly popular treatment for several mental health concerns, including substance use disorders.

clear sky recovery pool
Clear Sky Recovery in Cancun, Mexico.

This natural medicine, extracted from the African iboga shrub, “has great potential,” according to experts. “Small studies have suggested it can dramatically reduce drug cravings and withdrawal symptoms.”6 However, ibogaine is difficult to access in the United States. If you’re located in the U.S., and you’d like to use it to aid with recovery, you may have to travel abroad.

It’s especially easy to find ibogaine treatment in Mexico. Some rehab centers, like Iboga Quest, specialize in this type of therapy. Although the program is centered around ibogaine, it is offered in combination with well-known Western techniques. During the treatment process, clients are closely monitored by a medical team throughout the experience.

Clear Sky Recovery is another program offering this type of treatment. According to their team, the experience of ibogaine treatment may last for up to 24 hours, or sometimes even longer. During that time, the client enters a dreamlike state, and has the opportunity to relive core memories and gain new insight into their own psyche.

Ibogaine can be extremely effective for many clients. However, it “is not a miracle cure,” cautions Álvaro de Ferranti, Founder of Tabula Rasa Retreat in Portugal. “It is, however, an incredibly effective detox tool and an addiction interrupter.”

“The beauty of ibogaine is that it allows someone to resolve issues deep down.”

– Álvaro de Ferranti, Founder of Tabula Rasa Retreat

With or without the use of ibogaine, many treatment programs take a similarly holistic approach to wellness. For example, you might talk about core memories in therapy, or access a dreamlike state through mindful meditation. There are countless natural ways to delve deep into your emotional experience. And these techniques are easy to find in Mexico’s rehab centers.

Holistic Treatment in Mexico

Holistic recovery may incorporate a variety of therapeutic techniques. Sometimes these methods are offered alongside evidence-based strategies. Some 12-Step programs even utilize holistic strategies alongside groups like A.A. and N.A. In other rehab centers, clients only engage in these natural methods instead of using more clinical strategies.

Natural Detox

Narconon Latin America, which is founded on the principles of Scientology, guides clients through an entirely drug-free detox process. This may be a good fit for clients who want to engage in total abstinence as part of recovery.

However, it’s important to note that this type of detox may not be physically safe for all clients. Make sure you check with your doctor before undergoing this type of treatment, to make sure it doesn’t represent a significant risk. Some clients may need to use prescription medications in order to stay healthy during detox and recovery.

If this detox style isn’t right for you, there are many other ways to use natural and holistic methods during recovery.

Mindfulness Practices

Several rehabs in Mexico teach mindfulness techniques, such as yoga, breathwork, and meditation. These activities may be integrated into your daily schedule, or they may be electives.

yoga mindfulness
Mindfulness practices, such as yoga, are often incorporated into treatment programs at rehabs in Mexico.

Mindfulness empowers you to stay present in each moment. As this technique grows increasingly popular, some are starting to dismiss it as being too trendy. However, mindfulness is an ancient practice whose efficacy is supported by modern science.7

These skills are known to improve attention, compassion, and resilience to stress. They are especially useful for people in recovery. Connecting to your current—and ever-changing—emotional state may help you consistently make healthy choices. This skill may become a lifelong practice that you continue long after completing in-patient treatment.

Healthy Eating

Daily habits have a huge impact on your mental health. With that in mind, several Mexico rehabs focus on physical health and good nutrition. Some locations, like Moffitt Wellness Retreat, serve gourmet meals and natural, fresh-pressed juices, inviting you to enjoy the healthy pleasures life has to offer.

It’s extremely common for people with substance use disorders to experience nutrient deficiencies. However, “there is no special nutritional assessment or guidance” for people in recovery. To support your unique dietary needs, your team may help you develop a customized nutrition program,8 which will dictate your diet during residential treatment.

Life-Long Aftercare

Oceanica Treatment Center, in Sinaloa, Mexico, is a resort-like rehab that offers highly personalized treatment. Their program is tailored to meet your changing needs during every step of the recovery process—even after you finish inpatient treatment.

Most rehabs help clients plan for aftercare, and some offer even more extensive aftercare services. Oceanica Treatment Center goes above and beyond. “​​Once clients finish the residential phase, weekly monitoring is provided via telephone. Monitoring includes contact with family members (if the client allows) and provides support during the recovery process. The aftercare program also has weekly therapeutic groups that are in person or virtual. This aftercare process lasts 6 months, but Oceanica maintains relationships with the graduates for a lifetime through virtual communication or in-person alumni get-togethers.”

Recovery is a lifelong process, and like any healing journey, it comes with ups and downs. This approach ensures that you’ll always have the support you need, even after you leave residential rehab.

Traveling to Rehab in Mexico

If you’ll be traveling internationally to attend rehab in Mexico, make sure you talk to your rehab program’s admissions team before planning the details of your trip. Regulations vary from country to country, and may also be based on your country of citizenship. Since 2020, travelers have been subject to even greater restrictions, which may continue to change significantly over short periods of time. It’s important to research local and federal regulations in advance. Note that different airlines also have their own safety protocols; make sure to choose one that meets your specific needs.

If you’re a U.S. citizen flying into Mexico, you’ll need a valid U.S. passport book; passport cards may not be accepted. If you’re traveling by car, you may need a special vehicle permit. This is subject to change depending on where you cross the border. You’ll also need to obtain a tourist visa if you plan to stay in the country for more than 180 days. Although this exceeds the length of most rehab programs, it may impact your plans for aftercare.

For people who are just beginning detox and recovery, it’s important to streamline the travel process as much as possible. In order to minimize these logistics, most rehab facilities offer transportation to and from the nearest airport. It’s best to work with the staff at your rehab facility to plan the details of your trip. Remember that even before you arrive at rehab, you’re allowed to ask for the help you need.

Mexico’s Rehabs Make Recovery Meaningful

The act of traveling to rehab empowers clients to gain a new perspective on their daily lives. Physical distance not only separates you from potentially difficult situations; it can also give you much-needed emotional space. In that space, you can learn more about your own needs, goals, and values in a brand-new context.

In Mexico, residential treatment will also teach you how to live well, naturally. Your time there may focus less on medical treatment and more on the skills you need to navigate the world without substance use. These techniques are intended to be sustainable, accessible, and tailored to support a lifestyle you love.

As powerful as holistic healing can be, it’s not the right strategy for everyone. Some clients may need more medical support during detox and recovery. Others may benefit from highly clinical therapies, such as cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT). If you have reason to think you’d benefit from this type of approach, holistic therapy may be ineffective, or even counterproductive.

You have nothing to prove by choosing one rehab facility over another. This is a time to focus on your own mental health, above almost anything else. No matter how much a certain philosophy appeals to you on paper, it may or may not actually be the appropriate way for you to approach healing. If natural wellness sounds like the best possible way for you to begin recovery, a rehab in Mexico is likely to be a good fit. For those considering a broader range of options, you can choose from many other luxury rehabs that offer a variety of approaches and amenities that might better align with your needs.

Frequently Asked Questions About Rehab In Mexico

What are the benefits of luxury rehab in Mexico?

Luxury rehabs in Mexico offer several benefits: 

• Personalized treatment plans 
• Unique therapies including ibogaine therapy
• Experiential therapies
• World-class facilities
• Serene environments
• Experienced medical staff

How much does luxury rehab in Mexico cost?

The cost of luxury rehab in Mexico depends on factors such as treatment duration, level of treatment, amenities, and more. Some rehabs cost under $10,000 for a 30-day program. A majority of Mexico luxury rehabs cost between $10,000 to $25,000. These offer upscale amenities, luxurious accommodations, and highly specialized treatment.

What types of addiction treatment are available in luxury rehabs in Mexico?

Addiction treatment in Mexico covers the full spectrum of care. You can find detoxification programs, residential rehabs, outpatient programs, intensive outpatient programs (IOPs), and sober living. Many programs offer a range of treatments, including individual and group therapy, holistic approaches, complementary therapies like equine therapy, 12-step programs, family counseling, and aftercare planning to promote long-term recovery.

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How to Avoid Scams and Find a Legitimate Treatment Center

Rehab should feel like a safe space, where you’re supported, listened to and your recovery comes first. Many addiction treatment centers do place your recovery at the forefront. These quality rehab centers employ experienced professionals, offer a robust treatment program and apply a variety of therapies to help you find a life free from addiction. While success rates of different approaches and programs vary, the positive news is, long-term studies have found that treatment works.1

At the same time, there are a few rehab industry players who don’t have patients’ best interests at heart. From the Florida shuffle2 to fake hotlines, different exploitative practices have been brought to light in recent years. It’s important to be wary of these malpractices to protect yourself from drug rehab scams, which unfortunately exist.

Certain markers can help you determine whether an addiction treatment center is using unethical marketing practices or is taking part in questionable schemes. On the other hand, there are also signs that indicate a rehab center is legitimate and reputable. Learn how to identify both the red flags and the green lights.

Watch Out for Common Addiction Treatment Center Scams

If you’re struggling with addiction or mental health issues, choosing to get help is a big, courageous step to take. During your search, you deserve to receive unbiased information that will help you make an educated decision regarding your recovery. Unfortunately, not all rehab recommendations are unbiased and some treatment centers engage in unethical marketing practices.

Patient Brokering: What Is It and How to Spot It

Patient brokering is when someone receives a commission to actively recruit and refer patients to a specific treatment facility.

How Does Online Patient Brokering Work?
A fake website or online ad includes a hotline that directs your call to a call center. A call center agent (not a treatment provider or dedicated admissions specialist) receives compensation for each referral they place. Treatment centers involved in these kickback schemes will place a bid for patients and agents will refer patients to the highest bidding center.

In short, call center agents pose as caregivers and sell leads to the highest bidding rehab.

Does Patient Brokering Only Exist Online?
It’s not just call center agents who receive commissions for referring patients. There have been instances of therapists and doctors receiving a cut for referring someone to a specific treatment facility.3

Is Patient Brokering Legal?
In the United States, the Anti-Kickback Statute prohibited referrals from any source to federal-supported healthcare programs, including Medicare, Medicaid, and TRICARE.

Since the Eliminating Kickbacks in Recovery Act4 was passed in 2018, it’s now “a crime to knowingly and willfully solicit, receive, pay, or offer payment for referrals to a recovery home or clinical treatment facility”, according to congress.gov. This means that referring patients to an addiction treatment facility in exchange for a referral fee is illegal nationwide in the United States. Penalties can include a fine of up to $200,000 and imprisonment for up to 10 years.

In the United Kingdom, patient brokering violates the 7 Principles of Public Life,5 a set of principles applied to anyone who delivers public services, including those in the healthcare sector. On top of that, The General Medical Council (GMC) prohibits doctors from receiving referral payments.

How to Protect Yourself Against Addiction Treatment Scams

In 2017, Google pulled an AdWords purge and announced that they would stop accepting ads from rehabs centers. This was huge news—many fraudulent treatment centers relied on Google Ads.6

While Google’s announcement marks a step in the right direction, you can also proactively protect yourself against addiction treatment scams:

  • Watch out for free helplines. A website may appear to provide unbiased information about treatment centers but then require you to call a hotline. Oftentimes, these hotlines are a source of referral fees, meaning agents receive compensation for placing someone in a specific facility.
  • Ask the rehab center for specific information. During your initial call with a rehab, see if their admissions team can answer specific questions about the center and their program. If you’re unsure what to ask, we’ve detailed questions to ask when calling a residential treatment center. Be wary if their answers are vague or if they don’t specify details about their program. You can also be upfront and ask the treatment center about their stance on referral fees.
  • Be upfront with your therapist or doctor. If your therapist or doctor recommended a treatment facility to you, you can politely ask them if they’ve received any benefits or compensation for the recommendation. Feel free to respectfully voice your concerns about the referral process.

Look for These Signs of a Legitimate Addiction Treatment Center

While it’s unfortunate that a few bad apples exist in the rehab industry, there are a number of good addiction treatment centers that have your best interest at heart. Below are some telling signs that a treatment center is more likely to be legitimate.

They Have a Positive Reputation

There are many ways to check a rehab center’s reputation. You can start by asking around. See if your primary care physician or psychiatrist has an opinion on a program you’re interested in. If you’re calling different centers, you can check if the center you’re looking at is in good standing with other treatment facilities. Read their online reviews, both on their own website and on Google.

They Have Valid Accreditations and Affiliations

Two national organizations accredit treatment providers in the U.S. These are the Joint Commission7 and Commission on Accreditation of Rehabilitation Facilities (CARF).8 Check to see if a rehab’s website displays these accreditation logos. You should also check directly with the accrediting body.

It’s usually a positive sign if a rehab is a member of the National Association of Addiction Treatment Providers (NAATP). NAATP’s code of ethics9 prohibits referral payments.

They Employ Qualified Staff

Rehabs in the U.S. are required to employ addiction treatment professionals who meet certain licensing or credential requirements, depending on the state. You should look through a treatment center’s team webpage to see if they employ licensed clinicians. Our deep-dive on the qualifications of rehab employees can help you pinpoint what job titles or credentials to look for.

They Offer Specific Details About Their Program

Usually, reputable rehab centers are happy to answer specific questions about their center or program. They’ll give you a sample schedule so you can see what a day, or week, in their treatment program looks like. They have detailed information regarding the admissions process. They’re transparent about costs and have no qualms about discussing insurance coverage.

Start Your Search for a Reputable Rehab

The decision to ask for help for substance use issues is brave—it’s one that marks the beginning of a transformative life journey. In your search for a rehab, you deserve to receive unbiased information in order to make a knowledgeable decision about treatment. By being aware of industry malpractices, you can take steps to protect yourself from rehab scams. If you look for rehabs using an unbiased platform, you’re more likely to find reputable treatment centers with programs that could be a good fit for you.

Start your search by browsing our collection of rehab centers. Each center listed on our site meets specific quality criteria.

Note: Recovery.com financially supports the site through sponsors, who pay for placements which are clearly marked throughout the site. We do not and have never accepted a fee for referring someone to a particular center.

Frequently Asked Questions About Rehab Scams

What is patient brokering?

Patient brokering is when someone gets compensated for referring patients to a rehab. Rehabs involved in illegal kickback schemes pay third parties to refer patients to their center.

Is patient brokering illegal?

Yes. In the United States, it’s illegal to refer patients to an addiction treatment center in exchange for a referral fee.

How do I check if a rehab is legit?

Signs of a legitimate rehab include:

• A positive reputation online and in the medical field 
• Accreditations, for example from the Joint Commission 
• A qualified treatment team
• Admissions staff with detailed program knowledge