Long-Term Residential Drug Rehab: What to Expect

When we say long-term inpatient rehab, it usually refers to treatment programs that take place over three to 12 months. A residential treatment program means patients reside in the treatment facility for that duration. They are placed under 24-hour care, wherein food and accommodations are provided on top of the treatments.

Patients are most closely monitored during the detoxification process, which can be dangerous, uncomfortable, or in some cases, life-threatening.

Keep in mind that there are shorter and longer treatment programs as well. Long term treatment can last for up to one year.

The duration of long-term residential rehab programs may also vary significantly depending on several factors, including the patient’s needs, the severity of their addiction, the treatment center’s philosophy, and the specific program they are enrolled in.

The length of stay in long-term rehab may be adjusted based on an individual’s progress. Some programs may have a minimum stay requirement, but they can extend the duration if they believe it’s necessary for the person’s recovery.

The treatment center’s philosophy and therapeutic approach can also influence the length of the program. Some rehabs emphasize a gradual, step-by-step recovery process that may take longer, while others may use more intensive, shorter-term approaches.

Part of the rehab process involves planning for aftercare and continued support. This can include outpatient therapy, support groups, and other resources to help maintain sobriety after leaving the residential facility.

Ultimately, the length of a long-term residential rehab program should be tailored to the individual’s needs. It should provide enough time for the person to address their addiction issues comprehensively and develop the skills and support network necessary for long-term recovery.

Long-term residential rehab programs are designed to help patients overcome substance abuse and addiction issues by providing a structured and supportive environment for an extended period of time. But what exactly are the treatments and therapies used during that period?

While rehab centers may vary in their approach, most of these programs use a combination of therapeutic approaches and interventions to address the physical, psychological, and social aspects of addiction.

The first step in any rehab program is a comprehensive assessment of the person’s physical and psychological health. Their substance use history and other relevant factors are also assessed. This helps healthcare providers tailor an appropriate treatment plan for the patient.

In some cases, recovering individuals may need to go through a medically supervised detoxification process to safely withdraw from the substance of abuse. This phase helps manage withdrawal symptoms and ensures the person is stable before entering the main treatment program.

During detox, the patient’s drug or alcohol intake is gradually lowered while their withdrawal symptoms are managed by health care professionals. Medications may be administered to help make cravings and withdrawal symptoms more bearable during this difficult stage of recovery.

One-on-one counseling sessions with a trained therapist or counselor are a crucial part of long-term residential rehab. These sessions help individuals explore the root causes of their addiction, develop coping strategies, and set personal goals for recovery.

Similarly, group therapy sessions provide a supportive and therapeutic environment where patients can share their experiences, learn from others, and practice interpersonal skills. Group therapy fosters a sense of community and accountability.

Addiction often affects not only the individual but also their loved ones. This is why family therapy is important. Family therapy or family counseling helps repair relationships while improving communication between family members.

When it comes to behavioral therapies, Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT) is one of the most widely used. CBT helps individuals identify and change negative thought patterns and behaviors that contribute to their addiction.

Many long-term residential rehab facilities also incorporate 12-step programs like Alcoholics Anonymous (AA) or Narcotics Anonymous (NA) into their treatment plans. These programs offer a structured framework for recovery and ongoing support.

Many rehab programs also incorporate dual diagnosis treatment because of how common it is to have both a substance use disorder and a mental health disorder at the same time. In order to facilitate long term recovery, both conditions must be addressed simultaneously.

Finally, long-term rehab programs usually include a comprehensive aftercare plan to support clients as they transition back into their communities. This may involve ongoing therapy, support groups, or sober living arrangements.

It’s important to note that the specific treatments and components of long-term residential rehab programs can vary from one facility to another. The ultimate goal of these programs is to help individuals achieve and maintain long-term sobriety and a healthier, more fulfilling life.

Long-term residential drug rehab programs are associated with better treatment outcomes. But it also comes with several other benefits for those who are struggling with substance abuse and addiction.

Long-term programs tend to have higher success rates than shorter ones. This is because they provide more time for patients to address the underlying causes of their addiction and develop the necessary skills to maintain sobriety. Here, there’s plenty of time for self-reflection and personal growth. This can help patients gain a better understanding of themselves and their addiction triggers.

It also gives them enough time to develop essential life skills, coping mechanisms, and relapse prevention strategies that will surely come in handy once they are back in their usual environment. The journey to recovery does not end when you leave rehab. You need to take what you’ve learned and apply it to your new, sober lifestyle in order to keep yourself healthy. These skills are therefore crucial for long-term recovery and reintegration into society.

The structured and comprehensive approach used in long-term addiction treatment helps address the physical, psychological, and emotional aspects of addiction. This can be particularly beneficial for those who have struggled with maintaining sobriety in less controlled settings.

There’s also the added benefit of developing strong bonds with your peers in rehab. These connections and relationships may provide essential support and encouragement both in and out of rehab. Your peers can also hold you accountable for your actions and progress, which can be a powerful motivator for staying on the path to recovery.

By taking you out of your usual environment and reducing exposure to people, places, and situations that trigger your substance use, residential treatment gives you the opportunity to focus on your healing. These programs also include thorough planning for the transition back into these environments, so you know what to do to maintain your sobriety.

The goal of long term treatment is relapse prevention. Long-term programs typically emphasize relapse prevention strategies and ongoing support so that individuals can maintain their sobriety even after leaving the program.

It’s important to note that while long-term residential rehab has many advantages, it may not be suitable for everyone. Some people may ultimately benefit more from outpatient treatment. Consulting with a healthcare professional or addiction specialist can help determine the most appropriate level of care.

As we mentioned, some people may benefit more from long-term residential treatment than others.

These programs offer a structured and immersive environment that can be particularly effective for certain populations. For example, those with severe addiction or a long history of addiction may benefit more from long term treatment. It provides them with an extended period of time to work on their recovery and develop coping skills that prevent relapse.

Similarly, polydrug users or those who abuse multiple substances may benefit from the comprehensive structure of a long term rehab program.

Anyone who is a chronic relapser, has a co-occurring disorder, or in a high0risk environment could also benefit from longer treatment programs.

Individuals with co-occurring mental health disorders, such as depression, anxiety, or bipolar disorder, may benefit from long-term rehab because it offers the opportunity for integrated treatment of both substance use and mental health issues.

Other demographics that may benefit from long term treatment include young adults and those with limited support systems. Those who lack a strong support system or have strained family relationships may benefit from long-term rehab programs that offer a supportive and structured community environment.

Try looking into long term treatment if you have health complications, legal concerns, or if you have simply tried shorter treatment programs but are in need of something more comprehensive.

Again, the appropriateness of long-term residential rehab varies from person to person, and not everyone will require or benefit from such an intensive program. It’s advisable for individuals struggling with addiction to consult with a healthcare professional or addiction specialist to determine the most suitable treatment plan for their unique situation.

Many people don’t want to pursue long-term rehab treatment because of cost concerns. But you may look into payment options or your health insurance coverage to see if there’s a way to make this treatment more accessible. Many private insurance providers also cover substance abuse treatment at varying levels, so consider calling your insurance provider.

Even if these longer treatments are on the more expensive side, staying addicted is still far costlier in the long run.

The cost of long-term residential drug rehab can also be influenced by factors like location, type of treatment, duration of treatment, available amenities, treatment approach, insurance coverage, and the availability of financial assistance.

If you or someone you love is struggling with a substance use disorder, don’t hesitate to call a health care provider or rehab near you. The journey to long term recovery begins today.

Treatment is an addicted individualʼs best option if they want to recover. Beating an addiction not only requires eliminating the physical dependence, but also addressing the behavioral factors that prevent them from wanting to get better. Simply quitting may not change the psychological aspect of addiction. Some people quit for a while, and then take drugs or alcohol again, only to overdose because they did not detox properly. Recovery involves changing the way the patient feels, thinks, and behaves.