Many people think of detox as the only step in addiction recovery, while it is only the first. The first step, but the most painful. If handled without medical care, detox can be so severe as to be crippling, in fact repeated detox tries can severely incapacitate a person. Symptoms have been shown to intensify with repeated detox efforts if the addict has constantly returned to abusing the substance. Serious changes in the body and brain function of an individual can stem from drug and alcohol abuse. Removing the toxins and their byproducts from the body is a very important step on the road to addiction recovery. Medical strides have opened the doorway to procedures in New York to allow the addict to experience a lessened painful or pain free withdrawal period during detox.

To find a detox treatment center in New York  an addict or their family can speak with their family physician or search the internet for treatment programs in their area. Treatment centers may also mail out a brochure to the home of the addict that outlines the addiction recovery process. Quality programs offer family counseling and aftercare. A full recovery rests on the determination of the individual seeking drug rehab, but education of the entire family can increase success. During rehabilitation, the recovering addict will find out about tools that he or she can learn to cope with life after detox and rehab. Ways to avoid potentially cravings triggering situations, such as seeing friend who are still users, smell that remind the recovering addict of their time of usage, and even certain objects are learned.

For any addiction detox program to be successful the addict has to be determined to follow through on his or her efforts. Finishing a detox program, then following up with drug rehabilitation programs and carefully using the tools learned during both in their day to day life is the only way an addict will be able to be drug free in the long-term. Rehabilitation is a lifelong endeavor, with possibility of relapse each and everyday if the recovering addict is not a diligent participant in their own addiction detox. Drug addiction is  treatable and can be managed like any other long term disease. Outcomes with high success are possible if the addict is determined to manage his or her condition. Detox programs can teach individuals new ways to cope with life after drug abuse.

If an addict needs financial assistance, help may be available through the state. Social services can provide assessments and forms, while some treatment centers may have liaisons that can visit the social services offices in place of the addict if the individual is unable to go themselves due to health or mental issues. Childcare or elder parent can may be provided by the state as well or financial assistance and help in finding proper care. Detox treatment centers may also be able to help the recovering addict find a job and housing to further help the recovering addict find their lost sense of worth.