Going to do an inpatient detox

The main reason I’ve been resistant to the idea of doing inpatient is because they take your phone, but I talked with the main guy at this place up north and he said he’d be willing to make an exception for me and let me have my phone. He understands how distressing it would be for me not to have it given my autism. I have to wait till Monday to go in even though I stopped taking the stuff three days ago, my boss said I can’t get off work Saturday and Sunday. Withdrawals are coming on slowly so hopefully I’ll be able to make it till then without being completely miserable. Will have to get a doctor’s note and take the whole following week off work. I’m still nervous as hell, especially cause he mentioned when you get their you have to endure a body search which I’m not looking forward to at all, but hopefully it won’t be too invasive. Also he said nicotine use is allowed, thank god. Won’t be able to have my poppers but I can deal with that.

Graylight · 51-55, F

Best choice ever if you plan to follow up with meetings or recovery support. Yes, if you need it for a legitimate reason (like autism), you shouldn't be parted from it. Just respect the waiver and don't use it for the wrong reasons. Also, you will be the center of attention if other clients get wind of it. [i]They [/i]shouldn't be on the phone, so act accordingly.

Detox is more important than your job, because if you don't do this, you won't have to worry about that job. Now this depends completely on the substance you want to quit; if it's not alcohol and you think the withdrawal will be medically dangerous to you, it's okay to maintain yourself with just enough to mitigate those symptoms. Alcohol withdrawal can be fatal. However, if the detox has told you you need to be clean for a period of time before treatment, try to comply.

Nicotine and coffee (if you drink it) will be inconstant supply. It's widely recognized that when someone's in the middle of changing their life, cigarettes and nicotine can be tackled later. It's a kind of triage. But go in with your own supply - it's almost like prison commerce to get a pack once you're under supervision.

[i]This is a good thing you're doing.[/i] You'll feel better, look better and just starting a path toward a happier, better life; take it from someone's who's made the same walk. Best of luck.

OldBrit · 61-69, M

Good luck.

I remember that decision and those days worrying before going in. But now I look back on it as best decision I ever made.

CountScrofula · 41-45, M

Good luck this is the right choice. A plus side is inpatient can be very helpful if you're autistic because of how structured your life becomes.