The prospect of entering a residential or inpatient rehab facility for any duration of time may seem daunting to many people. Residential addiction treatment is a higher level of care than outpatient programs. This setting is to keep recovering individuals safe and make recovery sustainable even after they transition to their home environment. Residential treatment might be the best option if you or your loved one has concerns about severe addiction, withdrawal symptoms, or co-occurring mental health issues during rehab.

Criteria for Residential Treatment

How do you know if residential rehab is the right choice? This intensive addiction intervention often suits people whose severity and conditions require a high level of care provided by a team of addiction specialists and mental health experts. Below are a few questions to help you determine if residential rehab is what you need:

• Do you have a formal diagnosis of substance dependence? Does it involve highly potent substances, such as opioids?
• Have you tried outpatient programs without success?
• Do you need medically-assisted detox?
• Do your withdrawal symptoms require monitoring around the clock?
• Do family or environmental factors at home impede your recovery progress?

If you answered “yes” to any of these questions, you most likely need a higher level of care, like an inpatient stay. Despite the longer, more daunting duration and intensity of treatment, residential rehab may be the shortest path to sustainable recovery.

How Long Is a Typical Residential Treatment Program?

The typical length of stay at a residential treatment facility varies. However, most programs span anywhere from 30 to 90 days. If you have a dual diagnosis, the stay length may be longer than 90 days as you and your treatment team work to heal all aspects of your condition. This extended time provides a safe and structured living environment conducive to recovery.

This time will be filled with various treatment methods, such as individual therapy, group therapy, and holistic practices. In addition to traditional treatment methods like detox, cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), 12-Step meetings, family therapy, and holistic programs, many residential centers offer life skills classes (or “adulting” classes) to recovering individuals. The purpose is to prepare you for your transition back into society.

Routines in Residential Rehab

You can expect every day to have some sort of routine. Structure is essential to regain a sense of normal functioning without substances. You will follow a schedule for daily therapy sessions, peer group meetings, and other activities. Many residential treatment centers try to foster a family-like environment for a healthy social aspect, and you are expected to cooperate with health professionals.

For many recovering individuals who associate substance use with fun, this routinized life may seem boring and hard. However, patience and persistence are key to your success. It may seem grueling, putting in the work for the first weeks. But, gradually, you may realize how the body and brain change.

How to Choose the Right Residential Treatment Center

Look into a few options for treatment centers before deciding on one. The first criterion for a particular facility to make it on your list is licensure and accreditation. Make sure all medical staff are licensed and credentialed. Most residential treatment centers are licensed, but some may have additional accreditation, which is a mark of quality care.

A good residential rehab must also be connected with the local hospital system and urgent care facilities. This shows that the center belongs to a larger system and continuum of care. Residential rehab is only the beginning of your recovery journey. If you encounter any future medical emergency, your center can plug you into other resources.

What to Bring When Entering Residential Treatment

Like in any other medical situation, bring your ID, prescribed medications, medical records, contacts list, comfortable clothing, and personal hygiene essentials. Consider the length of stay and whether you need to bring some books, family photos, and hobby-related items. Check what your specific center allows you to bring before making a packing list.

Most residential rehab centers want you to focus on your health in the next few months. They may not allow laptops or smartphones. This may seem strict, but given how many people develop cross-addictions (such as social media addiction), these rules are in place to keep the center a distraction-free environment.

Overcoming Loneliness and Isolation During Treatment

While the rules of a residential treatment center can be rigid, they are still good places to socialize. You will be highly encouraged to socialize with your peers. Your therapists will personalize a plan for you. The best place to socialize while prioritizing sobriety is a 12-Step group where you can connect with an experienced sponsor and peers with similar experiences.

With health professionals and new friendships on your side, your stay at a residential treatment can be a time for you to thrive. Even though you are expected to follow the guidance of medical professionals, you are still in charge of how to move your recovery forward.

Residential rehab programs are a good option for recovering individuals who need a high level of care. While some people may receive adequate treatment in outpatient settings, people with more severe or long-term histories of addiction need the intensity and structure of residential treatment. Not all long-term rehab programs are the same. Do some research before deciding which one best suits your needs. At Laguna Shores Recovery, our experienced recovery experts and family therapists can help you better support a loved one to stay hopeful during this challenging journey. We are known for our comfortable atmosphere, family therapy, cognitive and behavioral therapies, family relationship programs, and 12-Step groups. We embrace a holistic approach to sustainable recovery. Call 954-688-5806.