Safe, medically supervised withdrawal support from addiction specialists.
Detoxification is the process of safely managing withdrawal from alcohol or other drugs under medical supervision. At Hazelden Betty Ford, our medical teams help people stabilize safely and comfortably while reducing the potential risks of drug or alcohol withdrawal.
Whether you're seeking help for yourself or a loved one, our care navigators can help you understand your options and determine the best path forward.
Medical detox may be recommended if you:
Addiction recovery is different for everyone, and the right combination of services depends on your needs, goals and circumstances.
Detox helps manage withdrawal and stabilize the body. Because addiction affects more than physical health, many people choose to continue with additional support after detox, such as treatment, mental health services, recovery coaching or peer support.
Withdrawal symptoms can be serious and unpredictable, particularly with alcohol, opioids and benzodiazepines. Medically supervised detox provides monitoring, support and symptom management to help make the withdrawal process safer and more comfortable. Learn more about alcohol withdrawal symptoms.
During detox, medical professionals monitor withdrawal symptoms, help manage discomfort and address any health concerns that arise. Depending on your needs, care may include medications to ease withdrawal symptoms, support with sleep and nutrition, and around-the-clock medical monitoring to help keep you safe and comfortable.
The length of detox depends on factors like the substance(s) involved, your history of use, and your overall health. For many people, detox lasts several days, though some may need additional time to safely manage withdrawal symptoms.
Some people attempt to detox at home, but withdrawal can be unpredictable and, in some cases, dangerous. Seeking medical guidance can help you better understand the safest approach for your situation.
No. Detox focuses on managing withdrawal symptoms and stabilizing the body. Treatment addresses the emotional, behavioral and mental health aspects of recovery. Comprehensive care often includes personalized treatment planning, integrated care for co-occurring mental health conditions such as anxiety, depression and trauma, family involvement, and ongoing support for long-term recovery.
Many people choose additional support after detox, such as inpatient treatment, outpatient care, mental health services, recovery coaching or peer support. Others return home with a recovery plan. The right next step depends on your individual circumstances and goals.
Yes. Some individuals seek detox as a standalone service, while others choose to continue with additional treatment or recovery support.