Taking the first step toward recovery is often the hardest. One of the most common fears individuals face when considering treatment is not knowing what to expect during medical detox. At Evoke Wellness, we believe that understanding the detox process can ease anxiety and help you feel more confident as you begin your journey.
Whether you are struggling with substance use alone or alongside a mental health condition, detox provides a foundation for physical and emotional healing. This step-by-step guide outlines everything you need to know—from admission to stabilization to what comes next—so you can approach treatment with clarity and peace of mind.
What Is Medical Detox?
Detox is the medically supervised process of eliminating harmful substances from the body. When someone becomes physically dependent on drugs or alcohol, stopping suddenly can lead to withdrawal symptoms that are uncomfortable and, in some cases, life-threatening.
At Evoke Wellness, our detox program is designed to support both the body and mind. Our expert team provides 24/7 care, using evidence-based approaches and medications (when appropriate) to manage withdrawal safely. This is the first step in reclaiming your health and building a solid foundation for long-term recovery.
Step-by-Step: What Happens During Medical Detox
Step 1: Initial Assessment and Personalized Planning
Upon arrival, you’ll undergo a comprehensive evaluation that includes:
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Physical exam and medical history
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Psychological assessment
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Substance use evaluation
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Lab testing, if necessary
This assessment allows us to create a customized detox plan that considers your medical needs, mental health status, and any co-occurring conditions. Our integrated approach ensures you’re not only physically stabilized but emotionally supported from day one.
Step 2: Medical Stabilization and Symptom Management
During this phase, the body begins to adjust to the absence of substances. Common withdrawal symptoms may include:
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Anxiety and depression
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Nausea, vomiting, or abdominal pain
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Insomnia and fatigue
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Muscle aches or tremors
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In more severe cases, seizures or hallucinations
Our medical team monitors you around the clock, providing medications and comfort measures to ease symptoms and keep you safe. You are never alone during this process—our staff is by your side every step of the way.
Step 3: Emotional and Therapeutic Support
Detox is not only about the physical effects of withdrawal—it’s about preparing your mind and spirit for healing. While in detox, you’ll begin participating in:
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One-on-one counseling
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Group therapy sessions
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Stress-reduction techniques like mindfulness and breathing exercises
At our mental health treatment center in Florida, we create a supportive, non-judgmental space where you can begin to explore the emotional roots of addiction and start the inner healing process.
Step 4: Planning for Continued Recovery
Medical Detox is just the beginning of the recovery journey. Once stabilized, our team will help you transition into the next appropriate level of care. Many of our clients move into our Partial Hospitalization Program in Florida (PHP), which offers structured therapy and clinical support during the day while allowing more independence than inpatient care.
Our PHP includes:
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Intensive therapy for substance use and co-occurring disorders
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Continued medical supervision
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Life skills development
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Relapse prevention planning
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Access to wellness services and support groups
Choosing a facility that offers seamless transition between levels of care is key to maintaining momentum and minimizing relapse risk.
Step 5: Family Communication and Support Planning
Families play a crucial role in long-term recovery. During your detox, our team will help coordinate healthy communication with your loved ones. Whether it’s preparing for family therapy or simply updating them on your progress, we ensure your support system is informed and involved.
We also provide education on addiction, codependency, and how family members can care for themselves while supporting you.
Step 6: Holistic Wellness and Coping Tools
At Evoke Wellness, we incorporate wellness practices that help you cope with stress naturally. You may be introduced to:
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Yoga or guided stretching
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Art or music-based therapies
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Nutritional counseling
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Breathwork and meditation
These holistic tools support both physical recovery and emotional grounding, helping you reconnect with your body and reduce anxiety or cravings.
Common Withdrawal Timelines by Substance
Each substance affects the body differently, which means withdrawal symptoms—and how long they last—will vary. Here’s a general overview of what to expect:
Alcohol
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Starts: 6–12 hours after last drink
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Peaks: 24–72 hours
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Resolves: Within 5–7 days
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Symptoms: Shaking, sweating, anxiety, insomnia, hallucinations, seizures
Benzodiazepines
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Starts: 1–4 days
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Peaks: Around day 7
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Resolves: Over several weeks
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Symptoms: Panic, insomnia, irritability, muscle pain, seizures
Opioids
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Starts: 8–24 hours (short-acting), up to 36 hours (long-acting)
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Peaks: 2–3 days
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Resolves: 5–10 days
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Symptoms: Chills, cramps, nausea, mood swings, cravings
Stimulants
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Starts: Within hours
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Peaks: 1–3 days
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Resolves: 5–10 days
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Symptoms: Depression, fatigue, agitation, intense cravings
Marijuana
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Starts: 1–3 days
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Peaks: 2–6 days
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Resolves: Up to 2 weeks
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Symptoms: Mood changes, trouble sleeping, appetite changes
Knowing these timelines can help you set realistic expectations and understand that withdrawal is temporary—and treatable with the right care.
Why Choose Evoke Wellness?
Choosing the right detox facility is one of the most important decisions you’ll make on the road to recovery. At Evoke Wellness, we understand that detox is not a one-size-fits-all process. Every individual arrives with unique life experiences, challenges, and goals—and we’re here to meet you exactly where you are.
What Makes Us Different?
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Experienced, Multidisciplinary Team – Our staff includes physicians, psychiatrists, nurses, and therapists who specialize in addiction and mental health treatment.
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24/7 Clinical Monitoring – Round-the-clock supervision means your safety is our top priority.
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Tailored Treatment Plans – We design care plans based on your unique medical and emotional needs.
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Integrated Mental Health Services – As a top-rated mental health treatment center in Florida, we address co-occurring issues from the very beginning.
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Comfortable Healing Environment – Our facilities are peaceful, private, and designed for relaxation and recovery.
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Comprehensive Care Continuum – We support your transition from detox to our Partial Hospitalization Program and beyond without disruption.
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Whole-Person Approach – Healing happens on all levels—physical, mental, emotional, and spiritual—and we honor them all.
With over 20,000 lives positively impacted across our programs, we have built a reputation rooted in compassion, clinical excellence, and long-term success.
Conclusion
If you’re reading this, you’re already contemplating change—and that’s something to be proud of. Beginning detox may feel overwhelming, but it’s also one of the most powerful acts of self-love and hope you can make.
At Evoke Wellness, you’re not just a patient—you’re a person with a future worth fighting for. Our team is here to walk beside you from the moment you arrive, helping you through every stage of the process with empathy, respect, and world-class medical care. We know how hard it is to take the first step. But we also know how transformative that step can be. Whether you’re battling years of substance use or facing a recent relapse, we’re here to help you reclaim your life with clarity, purpose, and strength.
With our expert team, personalized care, and a proven path forward—including our structured Partial Hospitalization Program in Florida—you don’t have to navigate recovery alone. We’ll help you build a healthier, more fulfilling life starting with one decision: to get help. Recovery is not just possible—it’s within reach. Let Evoke Wellness be your partner in healing. Want to speak with someone now? Call 866.429.2960 or reach out through our website to learn more about our medically supervised detox, full mental health treatment services, and step-down care options. Your new life can start today—all it takes is one step forward.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is medical detox?
Medical detox is a supervised process that helps individuals safely withdraw from drugs or alcohol with the support of medical professionals and medications.
How long does detox take?
Detox typically lasts 5–10 days depending on the substance, usage history, and overall health condition.
Is detox at Evoke Wellness safe?
Yes. We offer 24/7 medical supervision, licensed clinical care, and emotional support to ensure your safety and comfort.
Can I detox at home?
Detoxing at home is risky and not recommended for most people, especially those with a history of heavy substance use. Medically supervised detox is the safest option.
What happens after detox?
Most individuals transition into our Partial Hospitalization Program in Florida or another level of care, depending on their needs and recovery goals.
Does Evoke Wellness treat co-occurring mental health conditions?
Yes. As a mental health treatment center in Florida, we offer dual diagnosis care for conditions like anxiety, depression, PTSD, and more.
