Benefits of Addiction and Mental Health Inpatient Treatment

The widespread grasp of substance abuse is undeniable. Over 20 million Americans are currently suffering from addiction or substance abuse disorder. Substance abuse is a complex medical condition that changes the brain’s structure and function. Brain imaging studies have demonstrated the changes in certain areas of the brain that relate to learning, memory, behavioral control, judgment, and decision making caused by substance abuse and addiction. These are long-term changes that continue to wreak havoc on an addict’s brain long after the immediate effects of the substance subside. While these alterations are incredibly damaging to a person’s brain, they are also very damaging to their life. Substance abuse can cause major disturbances when it comes to work, family, and financial stability. It is crucial for individuals battling substance abuse to seek treatment options like inpatient facilities and programs. Hence, they can return to a healthy and fulfilling life. Understanding the different levels of care options, residential treatment programs, inpatient and outpatient rehab can be difficult when determining the right course to take. 

Addiction treatment requires fundamental changes in behavior and how the brain operates. A 2018 study on habit formation and change show that interventions to change habits are more successful when the individual’s environment is altered. Inpatient treatment for substance abuse offers this method for change. Outpatient treatment options such as drug counseling or support groups are also available alternatives. Still, most often, an individual will need a much more intensive treatment program to beat their addiction, especially if they have been struggling with substance abuse for many years or have overdosed in the past. When attempting to quit using a substance cold turkey, most addicts find this difficult and painful, and it can even be life-threatening. Recovering addicts can find lasting success in overcoming substance abuse when they utilize the advantages of inpatient treatment.

Inpatient treatment facilities for substance abuse are very comprehensive and structured programs, offering a more personalized and thorough approach to substance abuse treatment. This type of treatment is typically associated with a higher success rate than other kinds of treatment due to its immersive techniques. When you are involved in an inpatient treatment program, you live in a facility that provides 24/7 access to medical and clinical professionals. These professionals will aid in the challenging detox process and provide you with individual and group therapy sessions. You can also participate in classes that will teach you essential life skills and how to practice them while in the facility’s safety. 

Highly structured activities and classes are extremely valuable to recovering addicts. Many of them can find it difficult to take care of themselves properly and perform normal, day-to-day tasks. Inpatient rehab programs incorporate these activities in treatment plans. Considering the overwhelming mental and even physical effect therapy can have on an individual, it is hugely beneficial for recovering addicts to have this safe space to engage in this part of the treatment process.

Participating in an inpatient treatment program for substance abuse is valuable to those struggling as it releases them from the distractions of everyday life. They can focus exclusively on their healing and recovery without external stressors and obligations like family or work. This type of treatment can also help to cultivate a feeling of community for them. Recovering addicts can connect with others living in inpatient treatment to establish a network of support. These individuals will understand what it’s like to struggle with temptation and cravings, suffer from trauma, and recognize the weight of any feelings of shame and guilt caused by substance abuse. 

Inpatient treatment stays can last anywhere from 30 days to a year, depending on the severity of the addiction and how well the individual is improving over the course of their stay. Long-term inpatient treatment programs are most often referred to as residential inpatient treatment, and patients will usually spend 6 to 12 months in one of these facilities. This type of long-haul treatment gives recovering addicts a chance to implement lasting change in their lives. They can begin forming healthy habits that can distract them from the temptations of substance abuse and are given the time to rewire certain neural pathways in the brain that will allow new coping skills to be imprinted.

The Benefits Are Well Acknowledged 

Many studies have shown that inpatient treatment programs are more effective for successful detox versus outpatient treatment options. Addicts are likely to return to their substance of choice to alleviate the uncomfortable and often painful withdrawal symptoms, which can last for days or even weeks. Inpatient treatment provides individuals with professional medical detox to offer a better chance at recovery while still in the early stages. Drugs and alcohol are also completely removed from an individual’s life while living within the treatment facility, which greatly reduces the temptation and ability to relapse.

Inpatient treatment programs and facilities give recovering addicts the foundation, structure, and tools they need to lead a productive life once they have left the program. Substance abuse treatment provides you with on-site courses that will teach you about the inner workings of your addiction. Using drugs is simply a symptom of substance abuse, and there is often an underlying cause that compels the individual to abuse a substance again and again. By participating in the various therapies and classes offered by inpatient treatment programs, you will be given the knowledge you need to fight potential triggers and cravings when they happen successfully. You may also find it helpful to move into a sober-living home after treatment, which can be crucial as you transition yourself back into the “real world.” In any case, after you’ve left an inpatient facility, it is essential to engage in outpatient treatment programs like counseling, group classes, or 12-step programs to lessen the chances of a relapse and to maintain a system of support.

If you or a loved one are considering inpatient treatment for drug addiction or mental health, Indiana Center for Recovery is here to provide support. Reach out today and speak with one of our admissions specialists about your specific treatment needs.