Once you have come to terms with addiction and agreed to seek professional help, the next step is to find the appropriate residential treatment center. There are several factors to consider to ensure you receive the best treatment for your needs. One of the main decisions to make is whether to choose outpatient or inpatient addiction treatment. Take some time to think over which type of treatment would suit you before making the call.
Do You Need Residential Drug Treatment?
Many people choose outpatient addiction treatment simply because it is the most flexible and usually the least costly option. Outpatient treatment may be just right for some, especially if their addiction is mild. It is also a more convenient treatment program, as participants may still maintain their work and family responsibilities. Although outpatient addiction treatment may be the most appealing choice, that does not necessarily make it the best choice for everyone.
You may be better off with treatment at a residential treatment center if:
- Your addiction is severe.
- You have struggled with addiction for many years.
- You have attempted to quit in the past but were unsuccessful.
- Your home environment makes recovery nearly impossible.
Inpatient addiction treatment can provide you with a more intensive recovery experience, which may be necessary for lasting sobriety.
The Benefits of Inpatient Addiction Treatment
For severe addictions or cases where you need more support than can be provided through an outpatient program, residential drug treatment may be the best option. There are multiple benefits to enrolling in a residential program, such as:
- Around-the-clock support – Having 24/7 access to medical professionals can help you through the withdrawal process, which can be extreme for some. Inpatient treatment is beneficial for severe co-occurring mental health conditions. Dual diagnosis treatment will address disorders such as anxiety and depression that often accompany substance use disorder. Around-the-clock support can help keep you safe when dealing with withdrawal discomfort and suicidal thoughts.
- Medication as needed – Treatment at a medical detox center can make all the difference in your withdrawal experience. Staff can administer medications to help alleviate or eliminate uncomfortable withdrawal symptoms as they occur. Medication can also help reduce drug cravings to lower the risk of relapse.
- Frequent therapy sessions – In the beginning stages of treatment, you will likely need the highest level of support to stick with your recovery goals. When you enroll in a residential drug treatment program, you receive the most intensive therapy with multiple sessions most days. This intensive therapy schedule can keep you focused on the sober lifestyle you wish to achieve. Through individual counseling, group therapy, and family therapy, you will learn coping skills, relapse prevention, and how to cultivate healthy relationships.
Inpatient addiction treatment can give you the jumpstart you need to prepare you for lifelong recovery.
How to Make Residential Drug Treatment Work for You
Some people who genuinely need residential drug treatment may delay getting help because they worry about being away from home for 30 days or more. It can be tough to take that kind of time off with work, school, or family responsibilities. However, your sobriety is a priority, and without the proper treatment, you may go through the recovery-relapse cycle repeatedly without experiencing lasting success. Here is what you should know about making inpatient addiction treatment work for you:
- Find out if you are eligible for protection under the Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA) for up to 12 weeks off for treatment. If your employer fires you, you can file discrimination charges.
- You can file for disability during the time you spend in treatment to help assist with your financial responsibilities.
- Many treatment centers accept health insurance, including Medicaid and Medicare, to help make treatment affordable.
- Enlist the help of family or friends to manage child care so you can get the treatment you desperately need.
Once you have made the appropriate arrangements, reach out to your local residential drug treatment program to get started on the path to a healthy, lasting recovery.