Long-term Inpatient Drug and Alcohol Rehab: What to Expect
The idea behind the idea of admitting clients to long-term inpatient drug and alcohol rehab is that in many cases their disease took months, if not years to develop. Getting to the root of it and offering appropriate treatment is going to take longer than what a short-term treatment program can provide.
What Happens at a Long-term Inpatient Treatment Center
The first step is for a client to undergo a supervised medical detox for drug or alcohol dependence. In order for addiction treatment to be successful in addressing the emotional and mental aspects of the disease, a client must be free from the influence of the chemicals in their body. When the detox is performed under medical supervision, the procedure can be conducted safely and more comfortably for the client.
1. Initial Assessment
After the detox is completed, new clients undergo a detailed assessment by addiction specialists to determine the severity of their addiction. This process will also reveal whether the client has any mental health conditions which need to be addressed, such as PTSD (post-traumatic stress disorder, depression, anxiety or schizophrenia).
The results of the assessment are used to develop a treatment plan. The plan is reviewed regularly during the client’s stay, and is updated as necessary. It includes several elements, such as the results of the substance abuse and mental health evaluation, a health and medical evaluation, a determination about readiness and motivation to participate in treatment and financial considerations which may effect the outcome.
2. Individualized Treatment Program
Each client in a long-term inpatient program receives a drug or alcohol treatment plan developed to treat their individual needs. The program includes group therapy, behavioral therapy and educational sessions developed to teach clients about their addictions.
Some inpatient treatment centers also invite family members to participate in treatment sessions. Individual therapy is also part of the program, and these sessions are conducted by a psychologist.
3. Personal Growth Services
Long-term inpatient treatment also includes teaching clients how to live a drug-free lifestyle. A number of these centers operate with the idea that it is impossible to take away a client’s drug of choice without replacing it with something else. The “something else” has to be something positive, such as learning how to meditate, getting therapeutic massages for relaxation or attending art or music therapy classes.
4. Aftercare Services
The long-term inpatient drug and alcohol rehab should have a plan for aftercare for its clients once they have completed their time at its facility. Clients often move from being monitored 24/7 to a sober living house, where they can continue to have supervision while going to work and attending 12-step program meetings. Any drug or alcohol use is strictly prohibited and will be grounds for leaving the house.
From there, clients can move on to living independently and pursuing outpatient treatment when they feel ready.
Are you ready to get help for an addiction to drugs or alcohol? Call 1-888-605-7779 to be connected with a treatment professional that can assist you in the recovery process. We’re available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week to support you.
