I am going to be checking into a detox center within the next couple of days.  I am curious as to what to expect.  I am a smoker and want to be able to get outside to smoke.  I am scared and want some assurances that I will be comfortable.  Can anyone who has gone trhough a detox program tell me what to expect?

Thanks,

Andrew

Bit of fear and anxiety Smitty? Thats normal:)

Well-Im in Canada, and in the detox centers, in this area, try to make you as comfortable as possible.  The staff are understanding, and will go out of their way for you. If there are things bothering you, or you have concerns, they will personall sit with you, and listen.

You will meet others, that are going through the same things, that you will identify with, and make new freinds.

You will attend group meetings, where everyone shares. You will attend AA meetings. Some have excercise programs. The food is great. And around this area-they have smoke breaks, which are usually outside. if you need a smoke during the night, the staff are accomodating.

Then again--it depends what youre smoking(smile)

Lots of free juices and snacks, and all sorts of good stuff.

Im sure you will enjoy the experience. All the best, our freind.

Thanks for the info.  I am going to be cancelling a trip to Washington DC and will be checking into detox tomorrow.  I hope this will finally be the end of my drinking.  I am scared, but excited at the same time.

Any other experiences and advice would be appreciated.

Andrew

Hi Andrew. I had no problems getting enough cigarettes on detox, but a friend/relative/partner on the outside is useful.

I was put on a drip for 2 days, it's vitamin saturation and re hydration and that supposidly reduces the effects of withdrawal. I was also put on Librium ( A mild but also addictive tranqueliser) In the UK, detox happens in a normal hospital and to be honest I did in some ways enjoy the experience. Great chance to catch up on sleep and reading.

Best of luck, and welcome to the start of your new life. It's well worth it.

Chris.

Thanks again.  Some of my wifes friends have called me today and said I need to go on this trip with my wife because she needs me.  I agree with part of it, but I also think that getting sober is going to be more important than spending three days at an aquarium conference in Washington DC around a bunch of other people who are drinking.  I am installing MSN Explorer on my laptop so I can at least have dial-up access to the internet and will pack a few books as well.  Part of me is terrified about this, but I am also excited about taking this step in my life.  I have found someone to sponser me when I get out of rehab and I called him tonight to let him know of my plans.  I am going to stay in touch with him throughout my detox and he is going to try to visit me.  This is a big scary step for me.  I am glad I have the support of friends like all of you to help get me through this.  Many of you have gone through this before and your support is as important as that of my friends and family who probably don't realize exactly what I am going through.

Andrew

I personally have never been thru detox, but from what I hear they are most accomodating in here in the US, also......... my ex went thru it a few years back and I remember him saying he smoked "way too much" while in there........... you're in my thoughts and prayers......

Much love and lots of hugs

Doll

Thanks Doll,

I am going to do everything I can to stick it out for the long haul.  It will not be easy, but I think I will be a better and stronger person as a result.

Andrew

Good Luck!!!

Nancy Jo