Substance abuse is increasingly becoming popular as more and more addictive drugs become easily accessible.
Substance abuse is a dangerous habit that affects many people across the country. Even if you are someone who has never struggled with addiction, it is important to know the signs of substance abuse because it can affect anyone in your life, including your dear ones.
What is substance abuse?
The over-dependency on anything can cause dangerous effects. People who abuse substances like heroin, alcohol, and cocaine can quickly become addicted.
This may be because the person is unable to experience any pleasure without the use of these substances, or that their body becomes physically dependent on them to survive.
Addiction treatment typically includes medical detoxification followed by participation in a behavioral therapy program which can include individual psychotherapy sessions, group counseling sessions, psychiatric medication, and various other treatment methods.
What is inpatient substance abuse treatment?
Substance Abuse Treatment can be of two types, inpatient and outpatient. Your doctor may recommend either depending on the severity of your symptoms and your circumstances.
Outpatient treatment
Outpatient treatment usually takes place in a clinic or a counselor’s office. You visit the clinic at the time of your session and go back home afterward. There’s no overnight stay in this treatment.
Outpatient treatments usually work best for people whose addiction is moderate. Since the therapy doesn’t offer 24/7 monitoring, the addicts might initially find it difficult to control the urge to relapse. But it is a great option for those who have supportive people around and can limit their addiction. For some addictions, an intensive outpatient programme (IOP) could be a good option as well.
Inpatient treatment
Inpatient treatment refers to a medical facility comprising of addicts willing to recover from their addiction. You live on-site and participate in treatment, including group meetings, individual counselling, and other types of therapy. It offers you 24/7 supervision to monitor your symptoms and offer you suitable medication.
There are many reasons why people choose this type of treatment. Some people may not be able to stay clean living at home with their families or partners, or they work long hours that make it difficult for them to attend outpatient treatment programs.
Inpatient substance abuse treatment is best for people with severe symptoms and those who do not have a support group. It offers them the needed guidance and support to overcome the addiction and come back to normalcy.
How inpatient substance abuse treatment can help you stay clean
Inpatient substance abuse treatment begins by detoxifying your body to clear out the drug. It is a crucial step as the cravings could intensify during the process, resulting in a relapse. So, the physicians carefully observe your vitals to ensure smooth detoxification and offer you help as needed.
Inpatient substance abuse treatment is the most intensive form of addiction therapy. It’s also the most successful for people who need help with severe withdrawal symptoms and long-term treatment needs. Cravings will be much less intense at this point, and there will be a lower risk for relapse. You can expect to learn about your addiction, why you became addicted, and what you can do to stay clean in the future.
Inpatient addiction treatment can be under two categories: regular treatment centres, or luxury addiction treatment. In luxury rehabs, you can expect to find a lower patient-to-staff ratio, yoga, meditation, one-on-one counseling, and much more.
Inpatient facilities are designed to help you stay clean, not only by providing treatment but also by providing a healthy environment for you. At the treatment center, counselors and staff members will be always available to talk with you. You will also have access to other rehabilitative services to help you recover.
It is important to remember that the rehabilitation of drug addicts and alcoholics is only the beginning of the process. While the cost of alcohol rehab and drug treatment can be a burden for many, it’s important to seek immediate treatment in acute situations, whether or not you have insurance. Although rehabilitation can be expensive, the cost of treatment is likely to be less than the cost of long-term addiction.
Post-rehabilitation care
Inpatient treatment does not last forever, and eventually, you will have to be on your own. Post-rehabilitation relapse is quite common as people cannot control their urges, resulting in substance use disorder again.
With inpatient treatment, the chances are less likely as you would have spent a long time without drugs already. But if you ever feel the chances of a relapse, here are some ways you can help yourself or a loved one:
- Talk to a trusted friend or family member.
- Remind yourself of the impact it had on your life.
- Divert your mind towards other matters.
- Pick up new healthier habits.
- Seek professional help.
If you fear a relapse, continue outpatient treatment after inpatient until you’re confident you can control yourself and manage without constant medication.
Final thoughts
Drug addiction is a chronic illness. But inpatient substance abuse treatment can change your life. It can lead you towards the road to recovery and help you lead a healthier life.
Adam Mulligan did his degree in psychology at the University of Edinburgh. She interested in mental health, wellness, and lifestyle.
