People with drug or alcohol dependencies can benefit from entering addiction recovery programs. Most treatment programs provide services for at least one of three phases of addiction recovery.
The initial phase is detoxification. During this process, the client will stop using drugs or drinking alcohol. Addiction occurs when the body develops a chemical dependence on the abused substance. When a client stops taking drugs or drinking alcohol, the body must adapt to the lack of chemicals. This can trigger withdrawal symptoms, which can be physiologically and psychologically taxing.
Common withdrawal symptoms include digestive problems, sleep disturbance, pain, and chills. Clients may also experience psychological disorders like depression, mood swings, and insomnia. Going through withdrawal at home can be very dangerous. For this reason, the detoxification process often takes place at a recovery center under the supervision of a medical team.
The duration of the withdrawal period varies based on the type of drug, the length of the addiction, and other disorders or conditions the client may have. However, most detoxification processes last between 1 to 2 weeks.
Clients entering detoxification are evaluated and given treatment plans that include the withdrawal process and next steps. The medical team may prescribe medications that reduce cravings and minimize symptoms. Clients also work with mental health counselors and addiction specialists.
After the client has stabilized, they may enter the second phase of recovery, known as in-patient treatment. In-patient treatment is conducted in a residential setting, where medical and mental health care is provided on site.
In-patient treatment sites are staffed 24/7 to ensure clients have access to support. In addition to their medical treatment, clients also participate in group therapy and recreational activities. In-patient facilities that also address underlying mental health conditions are known as dual-diagnosis programs and offer more comprehensive support. Most clients will stay in the in-patient phase for at least a month.
If the client shows improvement and strong coping strategies, they may transfer to the third stage, which is partial or outpatient treatment. During this portion of the recovery program, the client lives in their own homes.
Partial outpatient may require the client to attend therapy and counseling sessions for a few hours every day, whereas outpatient treatment may only take place for several hours a week. Clients in these programs can take on work responsibilities or attend school while completing their treatment.
People with mild addictions and a safe home base can begin their treatment at the final phase. Clients can access outpatient treatment as long as they need. That being said, outpatient treatment is not recommended for clients with a history of relapse, or without a strong support system. In these cases, clients may benefit from residential day programs or other facilities that combine treatment and assistance with daily activities.
While the treatment model has three phases, they are not necessarily consecutive or linear. It is possible for clients receiving outpatient care to relapse and require earlier stage support. Likewise, some clients do not go through the detox process.
