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ADDICTION RECOVERY - There's no sugarcoating it: recovering from alcoholism takes serious strength, determination, and often professional assistance. It's a tough road, and anyone who's been through it will tell you the same thing: there’s no better alternative than inpatient rehab.
In this article, we're breaking down what to expect in inpatient alcohol rehab. We’ll talk you through everything, from making the big decision to stay sober and understanding the basics of treatment to attending post-rehab group sessions, keeping on the right path, and improving your health, physical and mental.
What is Alcoholism (Alcohol Use Disorder)?
According to the National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism (NIAAA), alcohol use disorder (AUD) is a recognized medical condition that makes it hard to control your drinking, even when it causes life problems. In short, it's drinking against your best interests. A person with AUD struggles to quit or control their drinking habits. Eventually, AUD leads to problems at work or school and engaging in risky behavior. Unfortunately, it often damages the familial, romantic, or social relationships a person has built. This condition can be mild, moderate, or severe, frequently resulting in relapses.
Alcoholism Rates in the US
NIAAA’s data obtained from the 2022 survey on alcohol consumption in the US tells us that there are 29.5 million people aged 12 and older, or 10.5% of this group, who had AUD in 2021. Some states, such as California, have rates well above the national average. In the Golden State, the abovementioned survey indicates that 12% of adults aged 18 and older could be diagnosed with alcohol use disorder. Although these rates may seem concerning, states with higher percentages, including California, often have more advanced treatment facilities and better support infrastructure.
The other good news is that recovery is possible, with the right help. Medication-assisted therapy, counseling, and support groups have a big impact. Early intervention with a professional can help avoid setbacks and teach coping mechanisms for stress and other relapse triggers.
Although recovery is a process filled with ups and downs, for people who want to make a permanent recovery, inpatient alcohol rehab is a necessity.
What is Inpatient Alcohol Rehab?
Inpatient alcohol rehab is a type of treatment where you check into a specialized facility and stay there for the duration of your recovery. This setup provides around-the-clock access to medical professionals and therapists, so you always have support when needed. The day starts with breakfast, followed by various therapies, counseling sessions, and activities. While it's particularly effective for those with severe alcohol dependency, people at different stages of AUD can also benefit from this focused care due to its comprehensive treatment approach.
Why is Inpatient Alcohol Rehab so Important in Recovery?
Inpatient rehab provides a safe, distraction-free setting where you can focus entirely on getting better. A well-planned routine and ongoing supervision make it easier to resist temptation and effectively control triggers. Personalized therapies and interventions increase the likelihood of a successful recovery because they are made specifically for each individual. Likewise, you can see your loved ones on scheduled visits, which can provide extra motivation and support, making the journey to sobriety easier.
What to Expect During Inpatient Alcohol Rehab: a Step-by-Step Guide
Now that we've covered the basics, let’s dive into our step-by-step guide on what to expect in inpatient alcohol rehab.
1. Expect That it Won’t Be Easy to Make the Decision
It may be helpful to understand that choosing to pursue sobriety and a healthier lifestyle is the first step in treatment. Making this first decision is frequently the most difficult step of the process. Admitting you need help and committing to change can be scary and full of unknowns. It's normal to feel conflicted and hesitant while you consider your options. Being ready for this challenge will help you to make decisions with more resolve and clarity to make the most out of it.
2. Expect Professional Care and a Well-Structured Process
Inpatient rehab should provide excellent medical care and clear procedure; at least, that’s the case with facilities for inpatient alcohol rehab in California, which this confirms the higher rates/better support hypothesis. As California was also found to have the highest percentage of drug and alcohol treatment facilities rated 4.5 stars and above, it is evident the state is making better strides to deal with the issue compared to the rest of the United States.
Rehab facilities typically offer 30, 60, or 90-day programs. A normal day in inpatient rehab is carefully planned. As we already said, it starts with a nutritious breakfast followed by various therapeutic interventions. The best alcohol rehab facilities in California offer medication-assisted treatment, behavioral treatments, and mutual support groups. In addition, the program includes 24/7 supervision by medical professionals and addiction specialists so that support is always available. Also, inpatient rehab offers a structured environment that minimizes distractions and temptations: an optimal setting for focused recovery. This structured approach helps patients build the skills they need for long-term sobriety and provides a solid foundation for their recovery journey.
3. Expect That Treatment Doesn’t Stop When You Leave the Facility
Recovery is a continuous process, and even after you've completed your inpatient treatment program, maintaining sobriety takes a lot of work and support. We recommend you continue with aftercare programs and participate in continuous therapy sessions as well as support group meetings. These actions are essential to sustain your success and avoid relapsing. Maintaining ties with a caring network and applying the techniques and tools you acquired in treatment can assist you in overcoming obstacles in daily life, transforming your body and mind, and maintaining long-term sobriety.
Conclusion
In conclusion, inpatient alcohol rehab is a tried-and-true approach to long-term sobriety. What’s more, it’s a fundamental component of modern therapy for alcoholism or AUD. That being said, we don’t want to imply that you’ll be immune to the difficulties associated with addiction after you leave. To maintain your success, you must keep up with your post-treatment activities, including participating in support groups, continuing your therapy, and doing as advised by aftercare specialists. Overall, we hope this comprehensive guide on what to expect in inpatient alcohol rehab will encourage you to seek help and assist you on your path to a long-term recovery.
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