Alcoholism and drug addiction are life-altering diseases that affect all levels of a person's ability to function while negatively impacting loved ones. Getting help for this illness is complex, but there are many treatment programs available depending on the nature and course of the addiction. The key to success in any treatment is giving the program sufficient time to be successful. Most programs are individualized to address the different phases of recovery.
Methadone Clinics
According to the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA), opioid clinics, also called methadone clinics, are often chosen to medically assist individuals addicted to heroin, hydrocodone or other opioid drugs. Methadone is a medical substitute for the illicit drugs. The goal is that the individual, with the help of counseling, will be able to eventually faze out the use of methadone and not return to using illegal substances.
Residential
Residential treatment centers are for severe addiction and typically require the person to live at the center for 6 to 12 months. The National Institute on Drug Abuse describes one type of residential facility called a therapeutic community. At these centers, individuals are counseled professionally and are also mentored by recovering individuals. The goal of these communities is for the recovering addict to learn ways to function normally and drug-free in society. Often there are restrictions placed during the first phase of treatment. These restrictions may involve having little or no access to family and friends so that the recovering person can adjust to living in the treatment center.
Inpatient
Inpatient treatment takes place in a hospital or medical facility where drug or alcohol withdrawal can be medically supervised. According to the SAMHSA, the popularity of these facilities has decreased due to changes in insurance regulations. Currently, dual diagnosis individuals who have co-occurring mental illnesses tend to be admitted more frequently to inpatient hospitalization. Treatments offered at these facilities include detoxification, education and counseling.
Partial Hospitalization
Some recovering individuals live at home but attend treatment during the day. Partial hospitalization programs are often located in hospitals or in free-standing clinics. Treatment usually lasts 4 to 8 hours per day for at least three months. These programs work for people who have a stable home environment.
Outpatient
Outpatient programs vary greatly. Some are located in hospitals, clinics, community mental health centers and therapists offices. The requirements vary as well. Some require only a couple of hours a week while others have more intensive requirements. Most outpatient programs are geared to working individuals and their program hours reflect this. This flexibility allows for greater adherence to the program and provides incentive to attend sessions.
