If you’re looking to kick your substance abuse or addiction, you may want to consider a residential treatment center as opposed to a less-restrictive outpatient program. While both types of centers address the root cause of your substance abuse, they operate in very different ways. These differences can have a big impact on your recovery outcome and how much time you spend at the center. To get an idea of how much these differences could matter for you, read on…
What is Detox?
A detox is the process of getting off drugs or alcohol. In many ways, it’s the gateway to your recovery. It’s when your body first starts to get rid of all the toxic substances in your system. Your detox is a critical stage of your recovery because it’s when your body has the most time to recover from the damage caused by substance abuse. It’s also the time when your substance use triggers and responsibilities are the most clear.
A clear mind and strong body are key to long-term success. A residential detox is a program where you stay at an inpatient facility for a few days to a week. You’ll receive medical care and possibly therapy during this time. Some residential detoxes are for people who are addicted to alcohol and are looking to get sober; others cater specifically to people addicted to drugs. During your detox, your body is going through withdrawal. It’s important for you to follow your doctor’s orders exactly so you don’t cause yourself any unnecessary pain. One of the biggest benefits of inpatient detox is that you’re surrounded by people who can help you through this process safely.
Residential Treatment Center
A residential treatment center (or treatment center) is a type of drug and alcohol rehabilitation facility that offers residential care. Residential care means you stay there while getting treatment. This can be a long-term inpatient program or a short-term detox program. In addition to the treatment you receive, residential programs often include group and counseling sessions. Some programs include education courses. You might receive one-on-one counseling or group therapy sessions. Your overall treatment plan might involve yoga, art therapy or other activities designed to help you cope with and accept your substance abuse.
Outpatient Treatment
Outpatient programs are short-term rehab options. You attend meetings or participate in therapy sessions on an outpatient basis. Typically, you’re under the care of an addiction specialist, though you can live at home and still participate in these activities. Some outpatient programs require you to meet with a therapist when you’re not in treatment. Others allow you to participate in group therapy sessions whenever you want. Some programs offer both options. The length of your outpatient treatment usually depends on your specific circumstances. You might need treatment while your substance abuse is still a problem. Other people might choose to stay on an outpatient treatment plan indefinitely to help them keep a better handle on their addiction.
Which Is Best for You?
There are many pros and cons of each type of treatment. For example, residential programs provide a longer-term stay but may be more difficult to get into. On the other hand, an outpatient program might be more accessible for you and your family. Each of these factors is important when deciding what treatment option is best for you. Once you know which type of treatment you’d prefer, you’ll be better equipped to find a program that fits your needs and budget. We’ve put together a list of residential detox centers and treatment centers in Ohio that might be a good fit for you.
Types of Addiction
If you’re trying to get clean or stay clean, you need to understand your addiction type. Your addiction type will help you decide which treatment option is best for you. If you have a dual addiction, you may want to consider a residential treatment center or an intensive outpatient (IP) treatment program. In a dual addiction, you have a co-occurring disorder, which makes it difficult for you to stay clean. Dual addictions include: Heavy drinkers with a history of alcohol abuse usually have a co-occurring disorder. They may have a mood disorder, like major depressive disorder, or a personality disorder, like antisocial personality disorder.
How Long Will It Take to Recover From Substance Abuse?
When you are newly clean, you will experience many withdrawals, cravings, and uncomfortable symptoms. The length of your recovery will depend on the type of treatment you choose and the type of substance you were addicted to. For example, a person who is addicted to opiates might need to spend six months to a year in a residential detox center. During this time, the person will be dependent on a substance that is super addictive and debilitating. A person who is addicted to alcohol may only need one to two weeks in an outpatient program. In this case, the person is dependent on a less-addictive substance with less severe consequences. If you’ve been using drugs or drinking heavily, you’ll also need time to build up your life again. You can’t rush through this process. In fact, you should put off as much of your normal life as you can in order to focus on your recovery.
Why Does the Length of Stay Matter?
When you decide on a residential or an outpatient program, you’ll want to think about the length of your stay. Remember, the longer you stay in treatment, the better your chances of a successful recovery. The length of your stay will depend on your substance abuse type. For example, a heavy drinker may need to stay in a residential program for several months while they detox and recover from their addiction. A person who is addicted to opiates, on the other hand, might only need a few days at an outpatient program.
Are you looking to regain control of your life and break free from addiction? If so, we are here to help. Contact us today at 833-497-3812.