Could you have a drinking problem? Is it leading to significant health problems and derailing your life? You’re not alone — and it’s okay to ask for help.

According to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), excessive alcohol use led to more than 95,000 deaths in the United States between 2011 and 2015.

Overcoming this addiction is not something you can do alone. Instead, you will need to seek help. According to the National Survey on Drug Use and Health 2019 report, more than 7 percent of people ages 12 and older who had an alcohol use disorder reported receiving treatment in the previous year. 

For many individuals, the treatment for alcohol addiction begins with medical detoxification, or detox. These facilities help guide you through the process, which is often too difficult to do alone and without medical supervision. Finding the right place to go through detox, however, can be difficult. It helps to know what you are looking for and what factors you need to consider.

If you or a loved one is looking for a place where they can go for medical detox, there are some factors that should be considered, including:

1. Inpatient vs. Outpatient Care

If you select to detox at an inpatient facility, you will live at the clinic with 24/7 access to care and professional care providers. These facilities will typically offer more services and are good for people with severe addictions or withdrawal and for those who have mental health struggles. These facilities also cost more than outpatient facilities.

In an outpatient facility, you will receive treatment, such as a dose of medication, during the day and return home at night. This is a good option for those with mild or moderate alcohol withdrawal, good physical and mental health, and a strong support system at home. These facilities also typically cost less than an inpatient facility.

2. Accreditation

Ask if the detox facility you are considering is accredited through an organization such as the Commission on Accreditation of Rehabilitation Facilities, the National Committee for Quality Assurance, and the Joint Commission. You should also research the doctors, nurses, and other medical care providers to make sure that they have training and experience in addiction or mental health treatment. 

3. Insurance

Like with any medical decision, insurance will play an important part in your decision. Before you enter a facility, work with your insurance company to understand what or how much of your treatment will be paid for by your insurance.

4. Aftercare

Detox is just one piece of the puzzle when it comes to addiction recovery. When it is over, there is more help that you — and perhaps your family — will need to make sure that you are fully recovered. That is why it is important to understand what your aftercare options are like at the program you choose.