There are a number of treatment programs but what they all have in common is that the environment focuses on structure, minimizing potential exposure to substance use, and identifying the root cause of the addiction.
Understanding the various types of treatment programs can help your loved one take that important first step toward recovery. Some examples of treatment programs are:
Detox
This is the first part of any substance use disorder treatment program. The detoxification approach can vary as it depends on the substance. For example, detox can either be managed through controlled administration of the substance, or it can be completely stopping use entirely. Detox usually takes place in a detox center where medical professionals monitor the detox period for any potential harmful withdrawal symptoms. The duration of this step can vary but averages 30 days.Residential (inpatient) treatment
This program requires your loved one live in a treatment facility while getting treatment during the day. This program may fit individuals who have experienced school or work disruption, relationships being negatively affected, or legal system issues. Residential treatment is usually between 30-90 days.
Partial hospitalization
The partial hospitalization program (PHP) is designed for individuals who would need to be medically monitored but have a safe and stable living situation. Treatment would be onsite for anywhere between 3 to 5 days per week for several hours per each onsite session.
Intensive outpatient program (IOP)
This program can be appropriate as a step-down from inpatient treatment as it focuses on relapse prevention on an outpatient basis, with onsite sessions taking place 3 to 5 days per week for several hours per each onsite session.
Sober living
This program is based on living in facilities that require a drug-free environment; this can help with relapse prevention. Sober living can follow residential treatment.
Support Groups / 12-Step Programs
These types of programs help individuals remain substance-free and continue their recovery process in a group setting. Group participants have shared or similar experiences, which allow for a supportive environment. 12-Step Programs also focus on spirituality as they progress through the 12 steps of living substance-free. There can be specific group focuses available such as a men’s group, a women’s group, a teen group or an LGBTQ_ group. These types of programs are not meant to replace formal treatment but a complement to an individual’s treatment plan.
Dual Diagnosis (or Co-Occurring Disorder) Treatment
Dual diagnosis means an individual is struggling with both a substance use disorder as well as a mental health condition. This treatment program addresses both issues for recovery, and may include medication and/or therapy.
Behavioral Therapy
This type of therapy can help individuals understand what started the misuse of the substance(s). This therapy also equips individuals with skills to avoid, identify, or properly react to trigger environments or situations by practicing coping mechanisms in high-risk environments. Therapy can be done on an individual, group, or family setting.
Medication-Assisted Therapy (MAT)
Medication-assisted therapy is an evidence-based program which uses medication in tandem with counseling and behavioral therapies. This program takes a “whole person” care approach to substance use disorders. The program has been effective in reducing substance use and avoiding overdose incidents, and can reduce the need for inpatient detoxification.
When treating opioid use disorder, there are 3 commonly used medications: methadone, buprenorphine, and naltrexone. When treating alcohol use disorders, the 3 commonly used medications are acamprosate, disulfiram, and naltrexone.