Frequently Asked Questions

Everything You Need To Know Before Starting Detox

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What is medical detox?

Medical detox is the process by which a person’s physical and even emotional withdrawal symptoms are monitored and safely managed with the assistance of professional medical treatment.

What is the detoxification process?

The process of detoxing from a substance boils down to three essential components: evaluation, stabilization, and continued care.

What is relapse?

Relapse is when a person returns to active substance use after abstaining from drugs and/or alcohol for a substantial amount of time. It is an unfortunate reality of addiction that many people in recovery struggle with overcoming.

Do I or my loved one need detox?

There are many people who struggle with their addiction and find it difficult to resist and put an end to active substance use. Detox can be an excellent options for those struggling with their addiction. We can help determine whether detox is right for you or your loved one with an easy and confidential assessment.

How effective is the detox process?

Medical detox is a highly effective way to begin your recovery journey. Since treatment is provided in a safe and substance-free environment, relapse is much less likely than detoxing by yourself at home. Many people find that the symptom management aspect of detox lowers their desire to relapse, which increases the likelihood of long-term sobriety. Read more about the benefits of inpatient detox on our blog.

What are the different types of drug detox available?

There are several types of detox treatment programs to fit the needs of any individual. Detox can take place in any number of settings with varying levels of intensity. The main two type of detox are inpatient and outpatient care.

How long does the drug detox process take?

The length of a drug treatment program will vary greatly from person to person as treatment is extensively individualized. Addiction treatment and recovery is personal, and detox is no different. That being said, a general patient may remain in detox treatment between 5-7 days on average. Upon completion of your initial assessment for detox, our team will have a better idea of the timeline your personal treatment plane will require.

What are co-occuring disorders and how do they relate to detox?

Co-occurring disorders are instances where a mental health disorder exists alongside a substance use disorder, usually resulting in one disorder exacerbating the other (and vice versa).

Is alcohol detox the same as other drug detox?

Detox is not specific to any one substance, but the treatment program for detox will vary from substance to substance and person to person. The core principles of detox are generally the same but how they are applied to any given scenario may be vastly different. In some cases it will even depend on the severity of the addiction.

What is continued care?

Continued care involves the steps and treatment that come after detox that will keep a person on a successful path to addiction recovery.

Will drug detox cure my addiction?

It can be unhealthy to view addiction as something that can be cured. Or even that recovery is something that can be achieved and placed in the past tense. The hard truth of the matter is that the only “cure” for addiction is the continued and active practice of recovery.

Do all types of addiction require detox?

There is no single treatment that is necessary or even appropriate for every person struggling with addiction. Those who are experiencing severe addiction are more likely to benefit from a detox program. But detox is not exclusive to those with severe addiction.

What are the side effects to drug detox?

It’s likely that those undergoing detox will experience some sideffects to treatment. In fact, it’s almost expected. But one of the main goals of detox is to keep these side effects under contol and to minimize any discomfort they may cause. Side effects will vary from substance to substance, but common side effects of drug detox include: mood changes, body changes, and cravings.

Is it possible to detox at home?

Some may choose to detox at home but it is not recommended, and can even be life-threatening in some cases.

Why can’t I just quit cold turkey?

Quitting active substance use abruptly or “cold turkey” can be dangerous depending on the substance. Additionally, the severity of withdrawals a person may experience tends to lead to a higher rate of relapse.

Should I go to a rehab facility after detox?

Depending on your treatment plan and response to detox, your facility of choice may recommend rehab as part of your continued care. Of course, additional treatment is completely optional and it’s up to you to choose the best option for the success of your recovery.

What is withdrawal management?

Withdrawal management is how medical professionals choose to respond to and treat any symptoms you may experience during your detox program. Often times, symptoms of withdrawal are treated with medication under the supervision of medical professionals.

What are maintenance drugs?

Ongoing treatment may ne necessary beyond completion of even the most successful detox program. It all depends on the individual, severity of addiction, and quality of care. In some instances, a maintenance drug may be prescribed to manage any lingering symptoms and side-effects of withdrawal. Usually these maintenance drugs are temporary but can be lifelong depending on the severity of addiction and withdrawal response.

What do I tell my job/How do I stay employed while in treatment?

In some instances, employers may offer extended leave through programs like short-term disability or the Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA). These options are typically determined by your specific employer. It’s important to note that substance use disorder qualifies for these benefits without the need to disclose the medical nature of your treatment.

We highly recommend that you have a conversation with your employer prior to checking into detox regarding these benefits. Properly filing for them can help ensure that your employment is protected while you are undergoing this important medical treatment. However, if you find it challenging to do so, you may also take the necessary steps to apply for these benefits while under our care. Our team is here to support you in this process, making sure that you receive the assistance you need, both in terms of medical care and employment protection.

What are my chances of relapse after detox?

Statistics support that individuals who attend a detox program are 40% less likely to return to active substance use. However, the risk of relapse is entirely up to the individual to continue and maintain their recovery plan beyond professional intervention. Remember that there are always loved ones and professionals to reach out to if you find yourself struggling after detox.

Should I travel for treatment?

Many individuals find that attending detox out of town or even out of state makes them more compelled to finish the program. The temptation or compulsion to leave is reduced when your home is no longer right down the road. But it again depends on the individual and what path works best for you and your situation. Not everyone can put their life on hold for recovery and that’s okay.

Will I get sick while in detox?

Detox by nature is shocking to the body and may result in symptoms that will make you feel sick or irritable. Although unpleasant, it’s a perfectly natural response to detox and can be managed with medication and guidance from medical professionals.

Will I be in pain while in detox?

In certain cases, detoxification can manifest unpleasant symptoms in withdrawal such as body aches, muscle pain, migraines, and various other ailments. There’s no way to predict how a person’s body will respond to treatment but the pain is entirely possible.

Is detox required before rehab?

Detox is a necessary step before rehab because it stabilizes the patient for further treatment. Many rehab centers require a successful completion of detox before being admitted to a rehab program.

What does rapid detox mean?

Rapid detox is a method of removing drugs from a person’s system at a faster rate than traditional detox is able to achieve. Most rapid detox plans take a few days or even a few hours to successfully remove drugs from the system entirely. However, rapid detox programs are typically very expensive, currently not covered by insurance, and pose many health risks.

Our center is in-network with many insurances

What happens after the detox process?

Once your personal detox program is completed, Briarwood will provide professional recommendations for your continued care based on your recovery plan.

Is there a difference between detox and rehab?

Essentially, detox does the prep work for rehab. In a detox program, a person is safely weened off of addictive substances and stabilized for further treatment. Rehab programs offer further treatment where a person learns coping skills and other strategies to overcome addiction and maintain recovery independent of direct professional intervention.

My loved one refuses to go to detox. Can Briarwood offer any assistance?

Our staff may be able to provide intervention assistance or we will connect you with a professional interventionist who can help. We match our clients with professional interventionists based on their personal circumstances and financial ability. Learn more about interventions here.

How do I contact a patient at the facility?

Contact information will be discussed at the time of admission but if there is an emergency, you may contact any of our locations directly and our staff will be able to assist you.

How can I prepare for drug detox treatment?

There are several things you can do to prepare for medical detox at a detox center, such as speaking with your employer, making arrangements for child or pet care, and preparing for transportation to and from the detox center. Read our guide on How to Prepare for Detox and review our packing list for detox for more details.

Should I Bring Money?

At Briarwood, clients are not required to bring any money with them. However, we do advise you to bring any personal items you may need during your treatment, including nicotine products.

What should I pack?

We have a dedicated page with a list of recommended items to bring with you during your stay. Check it out here.

Should I bring my medications with me?

New patients should bring all prescribed medications as well as any over the counter drugs they are currently taking with them at the time of admission.

Can I bring an e-reader?

E-readers are allowed in our executive program.

What drug detox programs does Briarwood offer?

We offer medically-assisted detox programs for all addictive substances. For a full list of our available drug and alcohol detox programs, please visit our detox treatment page.

Is Briarwood Detox Center also a rehab facility?

No. Briarwood is strictly a medically-assisted detox facility. If you would like to enroll in rehab upon completion of your program, we can recommend a continued care plan at a reputable drug and alcohol rehab center.

Is Briarwood Detox Center a licensed medical detox facility?

Yes. Briarwood is accredited by the Joint Commission, an independent nonprofit organization dedicated to ensuring safe and exceptional healthcare treatment for the public. Please visit our Accreditation page for more information.

Does Briarwood accept people of all ages?

Briarwood accepts people over the age of 18. Our facility is not equipped for the care of minors, but we can direct you to facilities that provide treatment to those under the age of 18.

How much does Briarwood’s detox programs cost?

We strive to make sure that the cost of our detox programs remains affordable for all clients. Your out-of-pocket cost for detox at Briarwood will vary depending on your insurance coverage.

Does Briarwood accept insurance?

Yes. We work with many different insurance providers in the United States. If you would like to verify your insurance benefits or get more information about your out-of-pocket costs, please contact our admissions team today. It’s fast, free, and completely confidential. You may also read our guide on How to Get Insurance to Pay for Drug Detox for more details.

What other payment and finance options are available?

If you do not have insurance or choose not to use your benefits, you may be able to receive financial assistance through your employer’s confidential Employee Assistance Program (EAP). Please contact your employer’s Human Resources department to learn about your options. Once you have verified your benefits, our admissions team will be happy to explore that payment option with you. Alternative options may include private healthcare loans, HSA funds, crowdfunding, or credit cards.

Does Briarwood have a scholarship program?

Briarwood does offer scholarship opportunities on a case-by-case basis.

Does Briarwood offer financing options?

Briarwood does offer structured payment plans on a case-by-case basis.

Does Briarwood Detox Center have nurses on site 24/7?

Yes, Briarwood nurses are onsite 24/7 to ensure the safety and comfort of all our clients. Our medical team will monitor your progress at all times during your stay at our detox center.

Do you use medications to help your patients detox?

Yes. Our medical team will administer medication to treat any uncomfortable physical symptoms associated with withdrawal from drugs and alcohol.

Is detox really necessary if I’m only addicted to alcohol?

Every addiction and every response to addiction is different. With proper assessment, Briarwood will be able to better understand your needs in treatment and whether or not detox is the right step for you in recovery.

What is outpatient detox?

Outpatient detox focuses on treating patients during daytime hours and patients return home every evening instead of staying at the treatment center. This option tends to be more affordable as it requires less resources to treat a patient fulltime.

How is outpatient detox different from inpatient?

Outpatient allows for the patient to return home after daily treatment and more or less maintain their own life outside of detox. Inpatient on the other hand requires the patient to remain at the detox center, living on-site for the duration of the treatment program.

Does Briarwood offer inpatient treatment?

Yes, we offer inpatient (residential) treatment. We utilize a proven continuum of care that starts with detox. Following detox, our clients transition to our stabilization program. Following stabilization, our clients begin residential treatment.

What is residential detox?

Residential detox is synonymous with inpatient detox where a patient lives at the detox center for the duration of their treatment program.

We Accept Many Insurance Providers, including:

Does Briarwood offer outpatient treatment?

Yes, Briarwood offers both inpatient and outpatient treatment programs. We provide an assessment to determine which treatment option is best for your recovery plan.

Can you transition or switch between inpatient and outpatient treatment?

If you find that a treatment plan is not to your liking, speak with our team and we can collaborate on some options that will better meet your recovery needs. It’s not common for patients to switch between inpatient and outpatient but Briarwood will always prioritize accommodating our patients to the best of our ability.

What kind of medications are used in detox?

Typically, benzodiazepines and antidepressants are utilized to help a patient manage common withdrawal symptoms. But each treatment plan and subsequent detox medications will be different and tailored to the specific needs of each individual patient.

Does Briarwood offer any family support?

Detox counselors at Briarwood will contact a designated loved one daily to provide updates, answer questions, and offer emotional support. If you’d rather your loved ones not be involved, we will respect your wishes, but we do emphasize the importance of family support and involvement throughout all stages of addiction treatment.

What else can I expect during detox?

Our medical team will monitor your progress daily and you’ll participate in brief one-on-one therapy sessions with a counselor. Once you’re physically able, you may also complete recovery assignments and participate in group therapy. Briarwood also offers music therapy, art therapy, and H&I meetings.

Do you offer an Executive Detox program?

Yes. We offer an Executive Detox program at our Houston location. This program provides enhanced privacy options and deluxe amenities like a private room, access to a personal cell phone and computer, and a king size bed.

Will I receive help with transitioning into sober living?

Likely the next step after detox will be rehab, followed by a sober living program. Briarwood will recommend next steps and further treatment options upon completion of our detox program. We strive to get our patients ready for long term recovery including sober living!

How do I know my privacy will be protected?

Our staff diligently adheres to the requirements of federal laws that are designed to protect the confidentiality of all clients in drug detox at Briarwood. The details of your detox program, your personal and medical records, and your identity are completely confidential and will not be revealed to anyone unless you provide written consent. We may ask for written consent to share your story and inspire others to begin their recovery journey.

What will my accommodations be like at Briarwood Detox Center?

We provide our clients with a warm, inviting environment where they can rest and recover during their detox treatment. Clients enjoy spacious, semi-private rooms, chef-prepared meals, a comfortable living/seating area with a flat-screen TV, tranquil outdoor areas, and more. Please visit our Facility Location page to view photos of our detox center and read more about the accommodations.

Can I smoke (nicotine)?

Smoking/Vaping is allowed on the Briarwood campus.

Can I have items dropped off to me?

Any additional items that you may need can be dropped off 24/7 with Briarwood staff. All of these items are subject to review for appropriateness at the Detox level of care.

Will I be allowed to have visitors?

Visitors are not allowed at Briarwood detox without consultation with clinical staff and the site Director. We must ensure the privacy and safety of all of our clients.

Can I use my phone or laptop while I am in detox?

In our general detox programs, we do not allow personal cellphones or laptops. However, we offer an executive detox program that offers many deluxe amenities which includes the use of personal cellphones and laptops as well as a private room and king-sized bed.

Briarwood able to accommodate my allergies/handicaps?

During the initial assessment and consultation, we will discuss any allergies and handicaps as well as the necessary precautions and accommodations you may require during your stay at Briarwood.

Can Briarwood accommodate my dietary restrictions?

Briarwood strives to be an inclusive facility where you can receive treatment. If you have a religious or otherwise restrictive diet requirement, we would be happy to accommodate your needs during treatment.

Are pets/ESA/Guide animals allowed?

Unfortunately, due to sanitation requirements and the potential allergy restrictions of other residents, we cannot accommodate pets/ESA/Guide animals at this time. We would be happy to direct you to facilities that are equipped to accommodate your additional needs.

Can I volunteer at or donate to Briarwood?

Volunteers from outside recovery groups are allowed on a case-by-case basis. All of these candidates undergo a thorough screening process before being allowed on the property. Donations are allowed, please contact the site prior to dropping off extra clothing or hygiene products.

Where is Briarwood Detox Center located?

Briarwood Detox Center currently operates three separate detox centers: one in Houston, Texas, one in Austin, Texas, and one in Colorado Springs, Colorado.

Is Briarwood a religiously affiliated entity?

Briarwood is not religiously affiliated and is staffed with a caring team of professionals of all backgrounds and all walks of life.

Is detox safe?

Professional detox treatment does carry the risk of complications depending on the severity of addiction but is significantly safer than trying to detox alone.

Break Free From Your Addiction Today

Contact us

Call (888) 857-0557 or fill out our online form for a free and confidential personal consultation with an admissions specialist.

Verify your insurance

Complete our fast, free, and easy verification process over the phone to determine the extent of your insurance coverage.

Make an informed decision

We will provide personalized placement recommendations based on your insurance, treatment needs, financial situation, and schedule.

Will I be able to maintain my company/business while in detox?

Detox by nature can be intense and stressful to patients trying to withdraw from addictive substances. We do not recommend tacking on the added stress of trying to maintain a business or company through detox treatment.

Why is national accreditation important?

There are unfortunately quite a number of scam detox centers looking to prey on people while they are at their most vulnerable. National accreditation helps to identify upstanding detox centers and distinguish them from scammers.

Can my personal therapist be involved in my detox treatment?

Insurance will likely not cover the cost of both a personal therapist and a detox program. In most cases, there will be a transition of care between your personal therapist and your detox program of choice.

Is there a way to contact Briarwood for additional information anonymously?

Briarwood strives to make all communication confidential and discreet for those looking into recovery options either for themselves or someone they care about.

What is executive drug detox?

Executive drug detox is a program offered by Briarwood that allows for more privacy and personal items. The executive program provides discreet private rooms with kingsized beds and the use of personal electronics such as cellphones and laptops. It is intended for high profile patients and public figures who want to recieve treatment outside the public eye.

What are H&I Meetings at Briarwood?

H&I meetings are where people from the recovery community visit Briarwood facilities and share personal stories of inspiration and perseverance.

What if I don’t feel ready to leave detox even though I’ve completed my treatment program?

We understand it can feel like a big step to leave detox and the care of professionals. Many people struggle with trusting themselves and a fear of relapse but there are many opportunities for continued support beyond detox. You are never alone in recovery.

Am I able to opt out of certain treatments?

Your treatment plan will be discussed in depth before being admitted to a program. If there are any treatments you don’t wish to receive, Briarwood is happy to accommodate you to the best of our abilities.

Do I have to attend group therapy?

Group therapy is a wonderful asset to the detox process. If nothing else, it helps remind patients that what they are going through both in withdrawal and recovery is a shared experience. However, recovery can be as personal or communal as you desire it to be.

Do I get my own room?

A private room may be granted upon request and based on current room availability.

What if I change my mind about detox?

Patients are free to leave treatment at any time and for any reason but may be required to sign documentation stating the decision to leave against medical advise.

If I relapse, will I have to detox again?

You may choose to detox again but it’s not always necessary depending on how severe the relapse is.

Is detox only for people with severe addiction?

Detox can be utilized by people at all levels of addiction despite the common misconception that it is reserved for people with “real” addictions.

Does Briarwood accept walk-ins?

Briarwood is by appointment only with patients being screened and passing a scheduled assessment.

What is Briarwood’s admissions process?

You can read about our comprehensive admissions process here.

What are behavioral therapies?

Behavioral therapy is one of the treatment options offered by Briarwood. Our patients benefit from cognitive behavioral therapy that essentially helps to process addiction and rewire the brain with healthy coping strategies.

Does Briarwood offer holistic treatment?

Briarwood focuses primarily on medical detoxification, although your counselor may provide and utilize various treatment modalities while you are undergoing the treatment process, based on appropriateness. These do include holistic options

What do I do if insurance won’t cover detox?

We strive to work with many providers to make detox available to as many people as possible. But we understand that not every plan will cover the cost of a detox program. Some employers offer sponsorship programs or community outreach organizations will sponsor recovery. Many people also find success in crowdfunding applications.

How can I make my experience with detox easier?

It is an unavoidable fact that detox will involve some level of discomfort. However, if you’re looking to make your experience with detox go a little easier, we recommend simply being proactive and staying receptive to treatment. It also doesn’t hurt to stay hydrated and eat regular meals.

Are there any lasting effects of detox on the body

The detox process itself does not leave any lasting effects on the body. However, depending on a person’s personal experience with addiction and the severity of their dependency, there may be lingering side effects that could last for several months or could be lifelong conditions. Additionally, some people may require maintenance medication that could potentially be lifelong.

Do I have to pass a drug test before being admitted to a program?

As a detox center, no, Briarwood does not require you to pass a drug test before starting one of our detox programs.

What is coma induced detox?

Coma-induced detox is more commonly referred to as rapid detox, where a patient is placed in a medically induced coma at the first signs of withdrawal. Though the idea of providing a patient with a virtually painless withdrawal and detox process is noble, this procedure does not come without risks. Most detox centers and the medical community in general do not recognize coma-induced/rapid detox as a viable treatment option for addiction.

What are drug detox kits?

Drug detox kits are often utilized by those looking to flush illicit substances from their bodies quickly in order to pass an upcoming drug test. These kits are legal but poorly regulated and not recommended for those seeking long-term sobriety.

Is Briarwood open for treatment on holidays?

Yes, our facilities operate 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, 365 days a year. Addiction doesn’t close for the holidays and neither do we.

Will my body recover from the damage caused by addiction after detox?

The human body is much more resilient than a lot of people give it credit for. You may be surprised by how much your health will improve after detox and consistent sobriety. People recovering from severe addiction have even reported an improvement in damaged cognitive function post-detox.

Should I diet for detox?

Putting your body under any additional stress is not recommended and most diets put some measure of additional strain on the body. It’s also entirely unnecessary to the success of a detox program.

Am I able to practice my religion/enage in religious events while attending detox?

Truthfully, some people find that they are not up for much activity while in early detox as withdrawal affects cognition differently for everyone. However, Briarwood is happy to accommodate anyone with religious commitments.

Is Briarwood LGBTQ+ inclusive?

Yes, Briarwood treats and employs people from all backgrounds and all walks of life including the LGBTQ+ community.