When Is It Time For a Residential Addiction Program?
What are the steps to start residential addiction treatment?
Every facility does treatment a little bit differently. The first step in rehab is often detox, where patients receive support as they go through medical withdrawal - this is sometimes completed at the residential facility, or sometimes ahead of time at a local hospital. After detox is complete, the patient begins the treatment process, which often involves more separation from the outside world at the outset and reintegration towards the end. The idea is that the patient is learning how to live their life in a very different way, and while they need separation to start the journey, they'll need skills to cope with the triggers and challenges of daily life before their treatment is complete.
How long does residential treatment take? Why is a stay in a facility necessary?
Treatment length varies by treatment program, and also can potentially be dictated by insurance. Generally, however, residential treatment stays are about a month. When a residential stay is necessary, it's generally because there are certain barriers presented by remaining in someone's home environment that have prevented the patient from discontinuing the substance use on their own - this could be someone else using substances in the house, not being able to control the compulsion to go out and purchase more of the substance, or struggling to cope with triggers for use in the environment (e.g., people, places, and things).
What are the benefits of residential treatment?
The primary benefit of residential treatment (as opposed to outpatient) is a contained, safe environment free of the triggers and barriers that derailed previous attempts at sobriety. The second significant benefit is having a very large amount of structured treatment activities daily, at some facilities as much as 12 hours per day. This is far more time than someone receives in any outpatient setting.
What are some things to look for when choosing a residential addiction treatment facility?
Accreditation from an outside certifying body, such as CARF, COA, or the Joint Commission.
Data collection that the facility can show you related to outcomes from their past patients, particularly related to ability to remain sober at least 6 months after treatment.
Make sure that the facility’s approach to treatment is a good fit for you. There are core differences in treatment paradigms between facilities, not just amenities, and it's critical that these core elements are in alignment with your personal approach and goals.
Who is eligible for residential addiction treatment, or who should consider it?
From an insurance perspective, the most eligible candidates for residential alcohol treatment generally have either already tried an outpatient treatment program and not been successful, are at severe risk of health consequences or death if they relapse, and/or who have an unstable home environment for recovery. Generally speaking, if you can achieve your goals without going to a residential program, it's usually preferred because it's much less invasive in your daily life to do an outpatient program instead. However, if the situation is dire and outpatient options have not worked, residential is an important next step in treatment intensity.
If you need help, more information is available on my website related to working with me for online addiction counseling – in addition to my concierge therapy practice, I also have a small in-network practice with Equipoise Teletherapy in Chicago. I also provide non-clinical parent coaching services upon request. For any other questions, please feel free to reach out to me directly!