Different Types of Detox
There are two types of detox utilized in drug and alcohol treatment: social detox and medical detox. Social detox is usually referred to as just detox, and medical detox is commonly referred to as med detox. While they both have the same goal, the type of detox you choose will depend on the severity of your substance use.
Medical Detox
Medical detox is a type of treatment done under the care of medical and addiction professionals. During the observation period, the patient is assisted in increasing safety and comfort and managing painful withdrawal symptoms and potential medical complications that may result from ending substance use. During medical detox, medications are often administered to ease the process and reduce the intense cravings for the substance that is experienced.
Medically supervised or assisted drug detox is most appropriate for people with drug addiction involving alcohol, benzodiazepines, and opiates. Ceasing the use of these substances results in dangerous withdrawal symptoms, and in some cases, withdrawal symptoms can be deadly. Medications are used in drug detox to improve comfort and stability.
For example, benzodiazepines are often administered to someone detoxing from alcohol, whereas buprenorphine or suboxone is used to help someone detox from opioids.

Social Detox
Clinically managed drug detox is a non-medical strategy for someone wanting to end drug addiction. All social and standard drug detox programs differ, but their goal is to get someone stable off drugs. Professional support is offered throughout the entirety of the detox.
Counselors work with individuals to help them get healthy. They ensure people are getting proper sleep and eating well. They will also work with them to start communicating and get comfortable in the rehab environment. Some centers also do very light physical activities like long walks to help the person recover physically and put their attention outward.