Thinking about addiction treatment can feel overwhelming whether it’s for you or someone you love. But it’s also an important first step forwards.
“This moment matters,” says J. Craig Allen, MD, vice president of addiction services for Hartford HealthCare and medical director of the Rushford Center, part of its Behavioral Health Network. “Even asking the question means you’re thinking about change. And that’s where healing and recovery begin.”
As you start exploring options, you’ll likely hear detox and rehab mentioned in the same breath. But they’re not the same thing — and understanding the difference can help you take the next step with more confidence.
“Detox uses medications and support to safely manage physical withdrawal symptoms,” says Dr. Allen. “Rehab is for learning the ‘where, when why’ and building skills to stay in recovery. Many people benefit from both.”
Here’s what you need to know.
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Do you need help?
Addiction can take many forms – from alcohol and illicit drugs like heroin or cocaine to prescription medications like opioid analgesics and benzodiazepines. Each affects your body and brain differently.
Withdrawal symptoms, mental health concerns and long-term side effects all shape the kind of care you may need.
“Addiction doesn’t happen in a vacuum,” says Dr. Allen. “Experiences, relationships, co-occurring disorders and genetics influence it. That’s why treatment should be just as personal.”
> Related: Can You Rewire Your Brain From Addiction?
What is detox?
Detox – short for detoxification – is the process of helping your body safely clear drugs or alcohol. It’s often the first step in recovery, especially if you’ve been using heavily or are at risk for dangerous withdrawal.
“Detox helps your body reset,” says Dr. Allen. “But recovery really starts after your system is clear – when you begin to understand what led to substance use in the first place.”
During detox:
- You stop using the substance.
- Your body naturally begins to adjust to a substance-free state.
- You may experience physical and psychological withdrawal symptoms, more severe with longer use and more potent substances.
For alcohol or benzodiazepines, withdrawal can be dangerous and sometimes life-threatening. While opioid withdrawal can be intense, it’s rarely life-threatening. Medications, such as buprenorphine or methadone, can ease symptoms and become long-term treatment, significantly decreasing the risk of overdose.
“That’s why medical supervision is so important,” adds Dr. Allen. “We monitor your health and keep you safe every step of the way.”
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What is rehab?
Rehab – short for rehabilitation – is where recovery deepens. It focuses on the behavioral, psychological and social parts of healing.
“Detox gets the substance out,” says Dr. Allen. “In rehab, you can learn how to stay sober, manage stress and build a life that supports your recovery.”
In rehab, you’ll receive care and support from a team that understands addiction from every angle. To heal both body and mind, treatment programs often include:
- Behavioral therapy to identify triggers and change harmful patterns.
- Medication-assisted treatment, when appropriate, to ease cravings and support recovery.
- Education about addiction and strategies to prevent relapse.
- Group and individual counseling to rebuild confidence and strengthen connections.
- Life-skills coaching to promote independence and long-term success.
“Rehab is inpatient – where you stay at a facility – and this should be followed by ongoing outpatient care after you return home,” notes Dr. Allen. “Depending on your needs, programs can last several weeks to a few months.”
> Related: 6 Signs You Might Be Drinking Too Much
What do you need most?
Every recovery journey is different – but for many people, detox and rehab go hand in hand.
“Detox is like stabilizing the body,” says Dr. Allen. “Rehab strengthens the mind. One helps you get through withdrawal safely. The other helps you build the skills to stay sober and thrive.”
Not sure where to start? That’s okay.
“We’ll help you figure out the right amount of care that you need,” says Dr. Allen. “You don’t have to do this alone. And remember – recovery isn’t about perfection. It’s about progress. Expect ups and downs, but just focus on moving forward.”
