According to the National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism, about 16 million adults in the United States suffer from AUD, or alcohol use disorder. That staggering statistic represents nearly 7% of all American adults. If you or someone you love is struggling with alcoholism, it’s important to understand that you’re not alone. There is help available, but it’s important to know what kind of help will be most effective. In this blog post, we’ll explore the different types of rehab available for alcoholism and what you can expect from each one.
What is Rehab?
Rehab is short for rehabilitation, which is the process of help an individual recovering from an addiction, injury, or illness regain normal function and quality of life. In the case of alcohol addiction, rehab centers provide a structured and safe environment for people to detox from alcohol and begin learning how to live sober.
Detoxification is the first and arguably most important step in alcohol rehab. Detoxing from alcohol can be incredibly dangerous, even life-threatening, if done without medical supervision. That’s because when you stop drinking alcohol after prolonged use, your body goes into withdrawal. Withdrawal symptoms can range from mild (anxiety, irritability) to severe (seizures, hallucinations). It’s essential that detox takes place in a safe and controlled environment so that medical professionals can monitor vital signs and administer medication if necessary.
Once the physical dependency on alcohol has been broken, patients can begin working on the psychological aspects of their addiction with the help of counselors, therapists, and peers in recovery. These therapies equip patients with the tools they need to deal with cravings and triggers, manage stress and anxiety, and live a fulfilling life without alcohol.
12-Step Programs
One popular type of therapy used in rehab centers is the 12-step program originally created by Alcoholics Anonymous (AA). The 12 steps are a series of guidelines that outline a path to recovery from alcoholism. The steps are meant to be worked through sequentially; each step builds on the last to create a comprehensive foundation for sobriety. Many people find strength and support in AA meetings even after they leave rehab.
Types of Rehab
There are two main types of rehab available for those struggling with alcoholism: inpatient and outpatient. Inpatient rehab requires the individual to live at the facility for the duration of treatment, which is typically 30-90 days. Outpatient rehab allows the individual to continue living at home while attending treatment sessions at a facility during the week. There are pros and cons to both types of rehab, and it’s important to consult with a professional to determine which type will be most effective for you or your loved one.
Inpatient Rehab
Inpatient rehab provides around-the-clock care in a structured setting. This type of care is beneficial for those who need close supervision and support throughout treatment. Inpatient rehab also offers more comprehensive programming than outpatient care, which can be helpful for those who have been struggling with alcoholism for an extended period of time. The downside of inpatient care is that it can be expensive and disruptive to work and family life.
Outpatient Rehab
Outpatient rehab offers a less intensive level of care than inpatient care. It’s typically recommended for those who have already gone through inpatient treatment or for those who have a strong support system at home. Outpatient care is also more convenient and less expensive than inpatient care. However, because individuals are not residing at the facility, there is a greater risk for relapse during treatment.
If you or someone you love requires rehab for alcoholism, it’s important to know that there is help available. There are two main types of rehabilitation programs available: inpatient and outpatient. Inpatient programs provide around-the-clock care in a structured setting, while outpatient programs allow individuals to continue living at home while attending treatment sessions at a facility during the week. The type of program that will be most effective depends on a variety of factors, so it’s important to consult with a professional before making a decision. No matter what type of program you choose, remember that recovery is possible—and worth fighting for.
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