Almost 48 million American teens and adults struggle with substance use disorders, but there are signs prevention and treatment programs are having a positive impact. A 2024 report found a decline in Florida drug overdose deaths, drug-related emergency department visits and overdose-related EMS calls. For many, the recovery journey begins at a Florida detox center. With professional care and support, you or your loved one can move toward a stable, brighter future.

Detox: The First Step in Recovery

The first step in addiction recovery is a medical detox to clear harmful substances from your system and give you a clean foundation to build on. Many substance abuse treatment centers offer this critical entry point to rehabilitation.

The detoxification process focuses on:

Substances commonly treated at detox centers in Florida include:

  • Alcohol
  • Amphetamines
  • Benzodiazepines
  • Sedatives
  • Opioids
  • Heroin
  • Cocaine

The Importance of Medically Supervised Detox

If your body has adapted to the presence of drugs or alcohol, cutting back can cause withdrawal symptoms. The severity of withdrawal depends on the substance, how long you used it and how often you used it.

As your body goes through detox, you might experience effects such as:

  • Nausea
  • Tremors
  • Panic attacks
  • Dehydration
  • Hallucinations
  • Seizures

In a medically supervised detox, a clinical team ensures your health and safety by supporting you continuously. Medical professionals monitor your heart rate, blood pressure, temperature and other vitals as the substances leave your system. You may be given medication and other care to ease withdrawal symptoms and provide a stable foundation for recovery.

Detoxification takes an average of 7 to 10 days and is complete when you no longer have drugs or alcohol in your body and withdrawal symptoms have eased. At this point, you’re ready to focus on rehabilitation.

Services Offered at Florida Detox Centers

In March 2024, more than 64,000 people were treated for substance use disorders at detox centers in Florida. Many offer a range of treatment programs you can access after a medical detox. These services provide the support, structure and tools needed to help you stay free of drugs or alcohol.

Residential Treatment

Inpatient treatment programs provide 24-hour care and mental health services as you adapt to life without harmful substances. By staying at a treatment center, you can focus fully on your health and recovery without distractions.

Most centers offer multiple therapies and treatments and medication management. You don’t have to worry about meals or household chores and have a network of support to lean on. Residential treatment may last 21 to 90 days or longer, depending on your needs.

Outpatient Treatment

In an outpatient program, you visit a treatment center several times a week for individual or group therapy and support services such as housing referrals and employment assistance. You can continue your daily activities and live at home during recovery. Intensive outpatient programs (IOPs) may involve 4 to 6 hours of psychiatric care up to five times a week. IOPs last at least 90 days, but many patients receive support for up to a year.

Outpatient programs are flexible and affordable alternatives to staying at a Florida detox center. Some people continue with outpatient programs after a residential stay as they transition into new daily routines.

Individual and Group Therapy

Therapeutic treatments are an important part of recovery, helping you explore your relationship with harmful substances and how life experiences may inform your addiction.

  • Individual therapy consists of private sessions that help you work through potential triggers and obstacles. These one-on-one sessions are tailored to your needs and may include approaches such as cognitive behavioral therapy, dialectical behavior therapy, mindfulness exercises and journaling.
  • Group therapy sessions connect you to others with similar experiences. A trained therapist leads groups of five to 15 patients, where you can share stories, receive support and practice coping skills. Group therapy may also center on topics such as depression, anxiety, anger or chronic pain.

Mental Health Care

In 2023, about 8% of all adults in the United States had both a mental health and substance use disorder. Depression, post-traumatic stress disorder and schizophrenia are some common mental health conditions that occur alongside substance abuse.

Treating both disorders at the same time can improve outcomes and reduce the chances of relapse. Some treatment facilities provide integrated treatment of co-occurring disorders. This gives you access to care teams who understand the complexities of both disorders. Stabilizing mental health conditions can help patients better recover from addiction.

Choosing a Detox Facility for Your Needs

The right detox center can make a significant difference in your recovery. Here are some factors to consider as you take this life-changing step:

  • Quality of care. A detox center with a multidisciplinary team of professionals, including addiction specialists, psychiatrists, counselors and nurses, can provide comprehensive care to support your overall well-being.
  • Diverse services. A wide range of services can give you more flexible care options. Check whether the center personalizes treatment according to your needs and makes it easy to try different therapies and adjust your approach as you progress in your journey.
  • Environment. Look for a caring and supportive setting with a team you trust. It’s important you’re comfortable and at ease for the best chance of success.
  • Accreditation and reputation. Check that the facility meets standards of care, such as having certification from the Commission on Accreditation of Rehabilitation Facilities. Read reviews and testimonials to learn about former patients’ personal experiences.

What Sets Florida Detox Centers Apart

Local residents and out-of-state visitors have many options for detox in Florida. Year-round sunshine and warm temperatures make it easy to spend time outdoors, which can enhance mental health and reduce anxiety and stress during recovery. Scenic views and nearby beaches provide a peaceful backdrop as you focus on healing.

At Sunlight Recovery in South Florida, our experienced team of licensed medical professionals is ready to support you on your recovery journey. They can safely and compassionately guide you through the detoxification process and deliver a wide range of therapeutic treatments as you work toward life without drugs or alcohol. Contact us today to learn more about our medical detox and residential and outpatient programs and take an important step toward change.