Addiction treatment can take many forms, but by far the most successful one has proven to be the “inpatient” or “residential” model. These intensive, onsite programs provide continuous, customized care to address a variety of substance abuse issues.
Leaving the comfort of home for treatment may seem daunting to someone in need of help for an addiction to drugs or alcohol, but comprehensive integrated treatment based on a Dual Diagnosis approach allows sufferers to get to the root of their abuse issues. Inpatient treatment allows for time away from regular life—and many of the triggers that contributed to addiction—making room for reflection, meditation and self-examination, which are all integral parts of the treatment process.
What to Expect
What can you expect from residential treatment? The inpatient model includes therapeutic groups, ongoing pharmacological assessment and evaluation, individual therapy, wellness, nutrition support and activities that address mind, body and spirit. There’s a team on hand comprised of psychiatrists, licensed therapists, continuing care coordinators, nurses and other valued staff members who all work together to provide individuals in need of help with a complete treatment experience.
An Integrated Model
The integrated treatment model consists of a “systems approach,” which looks at the psychiatric and psychological history as well as the addiction. Upon arrival, a new residential client will undergo a thorough evaluation and assessment, giving the facility’s professional staff a clear picture of any mental issues impacting the same areas of an individual’s life as his or her addiction does. These can range from depression and anxiety to trauma and untreated bipolar disorder. Once discovered, clients are treated simultaneously for both conditions to bring the entire person back into balance.
The Detox Process
Detox can be an important part of the treatment process. In entering inpatient treatment, individuals go through an evaluation to determine the need for the detox process. This phase of treatment that can range from 48 hours to seven days, and it is carefully monitored by a medical staff. Each detox plan is customized based on recent substance abuse, and tapering doses or alternate substances are used to help minimize discomfort during this period. Natural methods like acupuncture may also be used to ease withdrawal symptoms.
A Complete Program
Cost is almost always a concern when considering residential treatment, but the staff at an inpatient treatment center will work with you to determine if your insurance will cover all or a portion of your treatment. They will also review other payment options. Because addiction doesn’t just affect the individual with a substance abuse problem, family is also addressed during an inpatient program. During sessions targeted specifically for family members, the family dynamics that contribute to dysfunction and addiction are explained, and loved ones are given the tools to step out of negative roles that perpetuate the problem. Families are also taught methods of conflict resolution that let everyone win. Treatment doesn’t end when an individual leaves an inpatient facility. The staff works with each person to create an aftercare plan to provide ongoing support.
Length of Stay
How long does inpatient treatment take? While many arrive at residential treatment committed to complete the process as quickly as possible, the professionals are more concerned with what will lead to long-term sobriety. Statistics and studies have shown a 90-day treatment program to be the most successful, producing the most lasting results. Many factors contribute to the length of treatment and each person is different, though, with some completing treatment in 30 days and others checking in for a simple two-week assessment that allows them to begin the recovery process.