Deciding to seek help for substance use can be a daunting and life-changing process. Whether you are considering receiving treatment for yourself or someone else, understanding how the process works can help quell some anxiety and fears. In San Diego and throughout the country, treatment programs differ in structure and intensity. However, almost all substance abuse treatments have the same goal, which is to offer individuals the tools, support, and guidance they need to be free from addiction. Substance abuse benefits from different forms of treatment, from medical detox to long-term therapy, and offers options for different stages of recovery.
Recovery is a highly personal journey, but many routes to recovery demonstrate similarities in structure. Therefore, an understanding of what to expect can help individuals feel more prepared and willing to engage in the process, and each part of the process will become easier to navigate. Below, we provide a step-by-step guide to the typical steps in a substance abuse treatment program and what a participant can expect during each step.
A Closer Look at the Stages of Substance Abuse Treatment
Each piece in a treatment plan is in line to establish a stronghold for sobriety for the long haul. Below is how a typical organized program is structured, and what happens at each level:
- Evaluation and Enrollment: The Start of the Journey
Before starting any official treatment, clients undergo a thorough assessment that provides the details necessary to identify the appropriate level of care. This often includes medical assessments, psychological assessments, and a substance use history. The usual step of the assessment will involve participating in an intensive outpatient program, which consists of structured therapy while living at home and meeting other responsibilities.
At this point, clinicians co-create an individualized treatment plan with the client. This will usually consist of determining the length of the program, the treatment methods selected, and goals and objectives. This process will establish the future course of the client and will ensure that treatment continues to be tailored to individual needs.
- Detoxification (When Needed): Managing Withdrawal Safely
Detoxification is crucial for many people suffering from moderate to severe substance use issues. Detoxification consists of safely managing withdrawal symptoms, which are demonstrated as substances leave the body. Withdrawal can be physically harmful or life-threatening, particularly when related to alcohol, opioids, and benzodiazepines, which is why detox is usually done in a medical facility.
People can often confuse detoxification with treatment; most often, it is a step where the individual is ready to enter treatment. The overall goal of detoxification is stabilization (usually both physiological and psychological) so the person can fully engage in the work of therapy that follows. Depending on the substance and the length of use, detoxification can last from a few days to just over a week.
- Structured Therapy and Counseling: Addressing the Root Causes
After stabilization, clients enter therapy, which explores the psychological and behavioral components of addiction. Therapy can include individual therapy, group therapy, and family therapy. We frequently use individual therapeutic modalities, such as cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), dialectical behavior therapy (DBT), or trauma-informed therapy, to begin identifying the underlying factors in one’s substance use.
Whether in an inpatient or outpatient facility, therapy focuses on helping clients develop healthy coping strategies, understand their triggers, and build resiliency. Group therapy often provides a meaningful connection to community and shared experience, which are often vital to the healing process.
- Skill Building and Education: Tools for Lasting Change
Recovery is not just about stopping substance use; it’s about learning how to design a life that encourages long-term sobriety. This section of programming focuses on life skills, stress reduction and management, and communication skills, as well as relapse prevention planning. Educational workshops may cover nutrition, employment readiness and skills, and financial wellness.
Clients are encouraged to identify short- and long-term goals for themselves. Goals support structure and motivation and allow them to reconnect with values, support systems, and a sense of purpose. Many programs also infuse mindfulness, exercise, and creative therapies, and therapists who develop overall wellness.
- Aftercare and Long-Term Support: Continuing the Journey
Recovery is a long-term process, and there are resources available to help with aftercare. Aftercare planning is one aspect that allows individuals to prepare for life after a formal program. This could include ongoing counseling, support group meetings, sober living environments, or alumni resources.
For most individuals, staying in touch with their recovery network is key. Aftercare is important for navigating the day-to-day of life and still applying the skills learned. Aftercare provides an extra layer of care and accountability that could help individuals avoid relapse and sustain sober living.
End Point
Each stage of addiction treatment builds on the previous one, directing users through the crisis of addiction toward stability and recovery. The road is not always easy, but knowing that things will get better enables them to hope for healing and recovery while relying on the community system for help when needed.
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