A detox treatment program is the first step on the path to recovery from addiction. Detox is the process of allowing the body to get rid of toxic buildup in the system due to drug or alcohol abuse. Choosing the right program is essential to recovery. Learn about the benefits of inpatient detox programs and how to find the right one to suit an individual’s needs.
Inpatient Detox
Inpatient and outpatient detox programs exist but anyone who has used drugs for a long time or drinks heavily will likely do better with a higher level of support in an inpatient detox clinic. A doctor is likely to recommend inpatient detox for individuals who have been more successful in quitting in the past. Outpatient detox is typically reserved for individuals who have used drugs or alcohol for only a short period of time and are in relatively good health. Outpatient detox requires an individual to have at least one person willing to provide support throughout the process.
Benefits of Inpatient Detox
Inpatient detox has many benefits for individuals with addiction. The goal of any detox program, outpatient or inpatient, is to safely relieve symptoms of withdrawal. Inpatient detox is preferable for some individuals based on the following reasons:
- Inpatient facilities are able to dedicate medical staff 24 hours a day. Equipping professional staff with the right tools to deal with physical and emotional symptoms of withdrawal is necessary for an individual to recover well and make it last. Outpatient programs are not able to provide round-the-clock care which may be necessary for individuals with chronic addictions.
- Inpatient facilities provide a safe space for recovery. Removing temptation can help an individual be rid of old habits. Replacement medications are offered to help with more severe detox symptoms. In an outpatient setting, this may not be an option available to individuals in recovery. The more severe the symptoms of detox, the more necessary it is to receive hands-on treatment from professionals in a closed environment for the safety of everyone involved.
- People are protected from stress and other factors which may trigger relapse of drugs or alcohol. Work, school, family and life are put on hold for the time being to focus on recovery one hundred percent of the time. An absence of stress provides a healing environment which allows people to focus exclusively on getting better.
- An individual who has overdosed in the past or after outpatient detox and treatment is best suited for an inpatient stay. The round-the-clock care provided can ensure safe detox and more support for the recovery journey.
- Alternative programs are more readily available. An individual may take advantage of the programs available during an inpatient stay not available during outpatient such as structured times for group, individual and family therapeutic intervention. There may also be outings with others in the facility, connecting with others who share a similar story and growing a community to support one another in sober living after treatment.
An individualized treatment plan can help determine whether an inpatient or outpatient treatment program is best suited to an individual’s needs. If your or a loved one are unsure of which is better, contact us. We will help you decide and support you in getting started on the path to recovery.