Medically Reviewed

Long-Term Rehabs

Updated August 14, 2023
6 min. read
7 sections

This article sheds light on the significance and structure of long-term rehabs, emphasizing their benefits over shorter treatments for certain individuals. It also outlines the variety of therapies and activities available within these programs.

What you will learn:
  • Long-term rehabs offer extended, structured care.
  • These treatments suit those with prolonged addiction struggles or specific needs.
  • Multiple therapies, from CBT to holistic approaches, aid in recovery.

Long-Term Rehab: What Is It?

Long-term rehab centers, unlike traditional inpatient or outpatient programs, provide substance abuse therapy over extended durations. Often dubbed “long-term residential treatment,” patients usually stay within the facility during the course of their treatment. Depending on the patient’s specific needs, the nature of the institution, and the program, long-term treatment for substance misuse can last from 6 months to 2 years or more.

Those struggling with addiction can greatly benefit from these programs due to their structured, comprehensive care approach. Though addiction recovery is a unique journey for everyone, research suggests that longer treatment durations tend to yield more favorable outcomes.

Who Is a Candidate for Long-Term Rehab Treatment?

Substance use disorder (SUD), commonly known as addiction, is a persistent health challenge where individuals struggle to cease or reduce drug or alcohol use, despite experiencing harmful physical, psychological, and social consequences.

According to the 2020 National Survey on Drug Use and Health (NSDUH), over 41 million adults aged 12 and older required SUD treatment in the preceding 12 months. Regrettably, merely 4 million sought assistance for their addiction in the same timeframe.

Though treatable, addiction for many isn’t simply conquered by halting substance use. Evidence-based treatments, usually provided in inpatient or outpatient settings, prove beneficial in addressing this health concern.

No single treatment is universally effective. Some may require short-term, while others benefit from long-term rehab. You or a loved one might consider long-term treatment beneficial if:

  • Previous relapses have occurred.
  • A prolonged struggle with addiction is present.
  • There’s a co-existing mental health issue like anxiety or depression.
  • The living environment isn’t safe.
  • You belong to specific demographics, such as teenagers, expectant mothers, or mothers with children.
  • There’s a need for continuous, structured support beyond what outpatient programs offer.

Is Long-Term Rehab Covered by Insurance?

To determine whether your insurance covers your therapy partially or in full at available rehab facilities, please contact us.

Treatment Duration Insights

Different substance abuse treatments often progress in “stages,” encompassing medically assisted detox, post-recovery counseling, and aftercare. Depending on your needs, we can direct you to either an inpatient or outpatient facility. While treatment lengths vary, inpatient facilities usually accommodate patients for extended periods compared to outpatient programs.

Inpatient long-term rehab often commences with several days of medically supervised detox, transitioning to 90 to 120 days of intensive substance abuse treatment and preparation for aftercare.

Other shorter-term options comprise:

  • Short-term rehabilitation.
  • 30-day programs.
  • 60-day programs.
  • 90-day programs.
  • Weekend rehabilitation.
  • Immediate detoxification.

Long-Term Rehab: What to Expect

Every facility differs, but a typical journey in a residential inpatient center starts with detox. Under medical professionals’ care, the detoxification process helps patients transition to a drug-free state safely and comfortably. During this phase, withdrawal symptoms are medically managed, especially crucial for those at risk of severe withdrawal complications. Medications might be administered, with patients closely monitored for potential complications. A smoother transition to long-term rehabilitation usually follows this phase.

However, detox alone doesn’t guarantee long-term recovery. Continued therapy is crucial to equip patients with the skills to avoid substance use and function effectively across various life domains.

Ongoing therapy may encompass:

  • Individual or group therapy: Tailored treatment plans are often formulated through regular individual sessions with a therapist. Group sessions can foster community among patients.
  • CBT (Cognitive-behavioral therapy): This focuses on identifying, avoiding, and coping with triggering situations.
  • Multidimensional Family Therapy (MDFT): Both the patient and family members engage in sessions. The therapy aims to eradicate negative patterns while fostering positive behaviors, especially in younger patients.
  • Contingency Management (CM): This approach rewards positive behaviors like maintaining sobriety. Rewards might include movie tickets or items in exchange for drug-free urine samples.
  • Motivational interviewing: Used to bolster a patient’s commitment to change and persist in treatment.
  • 12-Step Facilitation Therapy: Encourages participation in support groups like Alcoholics Anonymous.
  • Holistic treatment: Activities such as nature trips, art therapy, and sports can be part of the recovery journey.
  • Amenities: Each facility offers unique amenities. Some high-end rehab centers provide luxury treatment options, including private rooms, spa services, and meditation sessions.

The Advantages of Long-Term Alcohol and Drug Treatment Facilities

Given the intricate nature of addiction and its enduring impact on the brain, continuous engagement in treatment is pivotal. Long-term rehab programs present several benefits:

  • Unwavering support: These programs, especially residential inpatient ones, offer round-the-clock care, enabling patients to focus solely on their recovery.
  • A drug-free milieu: Inpatient facilities offer a safe, substance-free environment, crucial in the early stages of recovery.
  • Structured regimen: A fixed daily schedule often aids recovery, contrasting the unpredictable life many led pre-treatment.
  • Community support: Establishing connections with peers in recovery can be invaluable.

Ready to Begin? We’re Here to Guide You

If you’re set to start, reach out to us. We’ll guide you towards a suitable facility.

Finding a Suitable Long-Term Rehab Facility

Navigating the plethora of long-term treatment facilities can be daunting. But you’re not alone. We’re here to assist you in pinpointing the right choice. Speak to us for insights on your options. We can help streamline your search based on care type, location, insurance compatibility, and more.

FAQs

How should I prepare for long-term drug rehab?

Many are uncertain about what to bring. Typically, essentials like clothing and toiletries suffice. However, facilities may have policies on certain items (e.g., laptops). We’ll guide you on what’s permissible.

Can I rejoin the workforce post-extensive addiction treatment?

Certainly. Many acquire vital skills during treatment, enabling them to reintegrate into the workforce. Additionally, the Family Medical Leave Act (FMLA) might offer job protection for certain patients undergoing addiction treatment. The FMLA potentially entitles some employees to 12 weeks of unpaid, job-secured leave annually.

About The Contributor
Author's Avatar
Pernell Baisden
Contributor
With over three decades in recovery advocacy, this counselor advises county leaders, trains law enforcement, and crafts innovative rehabilitation techniques, epitomizing resilience and hope in the addiction recovery sphere.
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