If you're struggling with an addiction or know someone that is, it may be time to consider inpatient rehab. The sad fact is that the majority of addicts cannot become clean and sober on their own, at least not for any length of time and certainly not permanently. There is no shame in asking for help with an addiction; as a matter of fact, anyone considering rehab is to be commended for acknowledging their problem and wanting to do something about it.
The idea of inpatient rehab can be daunting to most people. This means actually checking yourself into a facility and staying there for a certain length of time, and following their rules and schedule. Rehab is not a retreat or resort, although there is nothing that an addict should fear from it either. So what should you expect during this time?
Evaluation Comes First
You can't be treated if you're not evaluated, so this obviously comes first. An evaluation means a physical and psychological review. The physical evaluation is done to determine the level of your addiction and drug or alcohol use, and of course so that a doctor can treat any damage you've suffered physically because of your addiction.
Another part of the evaluation for inpatient rehab is the psychological aspect. This is done to determine how you feel about addiction and recovery, what may be contributing to your drug or alcohol addiction, and so on. Since addiction is not something that is just a physical problem but affects a person's state of mind and emotions as well, and may have root causes in one's thinking and feeling, this is a necessary step for treatment.
Treatment Programs
Every inpatient rehab facility is different, but typically a strong schedule of counseling, therapy, nutritional support, physical exercise, and medical attention is included. Patients are expected to attend these sessions and to take them seriously; if you're uncomfortable with the idea of counseling or therapy, remember that everyone else there is battling the problems you are and the counselors are there to help.
The physical aspects of counseling and therapy are also important because a person will often react to how they feel physically. If you're tired and your metabolism slows down, you're less likely to respond to counseling sessions. If you eat junk food and neglect your nutritional needs, your body may crave alcohol or drugs even more. These things should therefore not be neglected during inpatient rehab and should be taken very seriously.
And the length of time a patient might stay during inpatient rehab will also be different. Some respond very well to therapy and have a strong support system at home, whereas others need a longer stay, outpatient assistance, and further counseling once they are done with rehab altogether. Those that design and run the rehab facilities will understand this and will create a personalized program that is designed to get someone clean and sober, and keep them that way for a lifetime.
