Levels of Care in Addiction Treatment
Addiction affects millions of people across the United States. Nearly one in twelve people in the US meet the diagnostic criteria for a substance use disorder, but only about 11% of people who need treatment will ever get it.
Many barriers prevent people from getting the help they need, including not understanding how or when to seek treatment. Addiction treatment is not a one-size-fits-all process. Instead, several levels of care are available to meet people’s different needs.
This guide will give you an overview of the levels of care in addiction treatment. Contact the Mandala Healing Center specialists to learn more about which level of care is right for you.
Which Level of Care Do I Need?
Several factors will affect the level of addiction treatment you need to overcome it and move forward into a healthier, sober future, including:
- The severity of your addiction
- Your addiction treatment history
- Your mental health
- Your physical health
- Your environment
- Community support
Before beginning treatment, a doctor or addiction specialist will assess your needs and recommend a level of care. The substance abuse assessment will include questions about your substance use, a mental and physical health history, lab testing, and a physical exam.
Understanding the Levels of Care in Addiction Treatment
Understanding what happens in each level of care can help you prepare for your time in treatment and know what will happen next. Here is an overview of the three primary levels of addiction treatment offered at the Mandala Healing Center.
Detox
After a period of regular or heavy substance use, a person may experience withdrawal symptoms if they suddenly stop using drugs or alcohol. In some cases, withdrawal symptoms can be dangerous or even life-threatening. But even in cases when symptoms are relatively mild, they can make people uncomfortable enough to turn to substances for relief.
A medically-supported detox program provides a safe, structured environment for people to seek treatment during detoxification. Medical staff and emotional support specialists provide supervision, medications, holistic therapies, and emotional support that allow people to have a safe, comfortable detox process.
During detox, a therapist or addiction specialist will develop and manage each patient’s detox plan and communicate with family members when appropriate.
Participating in a professional detox program increases your chance of having a complete detox and prepares you to begin a comprehensive treatment plan.
Inpatient treatment
Inpatient or residential treatment is an ideal option for those needing intensive, round-the-clock supervision and care during detox and early recovery. Patients in an inpatient treatment program live in a treatment facility while receiving care to address the complex physical, behavioral, and emotional aspects of their substance use.
The goal of inpatient treatment programs is to provide safety, support, and stabilization for people with severe addictions and those with co-occurring mental illness.
The length of an inpatient rehab program depends on each person’s unique needs and goals. Residential treatment programs offer intensive treatment that allows people to overcome the physical challenges of addiction and learn the relapse prevention skills that will help them work toward lifelong sobriety.
Intensive outpatient programs (IOPs)
An intensive outpatient program (IOP) offers an intensive level of treatment with the flexibility to live at home. People in an IOP attend treatment most days per week and can continue to live at home. Treatment sessions typically include:
- Individual counseling
- Behavioral therapies
- Group and family therapy
- Relapse prevention education
- Holistic therapies like yoga, exercise, meditation, massage, and nutrition support
- Medication management sessions
- Communication and problem-solving skills
The flexibility of an IOP ensures people with addiction can get the high-quality care and support they need while continuing to work, care for family members, and stay connected to community resources and social support systems.
Outpatient programs
Outpatient substance abuse treatment programs offer a high level of flexibility for people who do not need more intensive treatment programs. People who participate in outpatient care may attend treatment sessions several days per week, often in the evening, to accommodate work, school, or childcare schedules.
In an outpatient program, people have the opportunity to get high-quality care in a supportive setting, connect to others in recovery, and receive guidance from caring addiction and medical specialists.
Outpatient programs are ideal for people who have stable housing, are motivated to work toward lifelong sobriety, and those who do not have complex addictions or mental illnesses. Some people may choose to attend an outpatient program after completing a higher level of care as a way to bridge the gap between rehab and their daily lives.
An outpatient program is also an excellent option for people who want to refresh their skills or renew their commitment to sobriety after a slip or relapse. Outpatient programs can be tailored to meet each person’s unique needs and be adapted to help them set and achieve goals in recovery.
Start Your Recovery Today
If you or a loved one are grappling with addiction, know that you’re not alone on this journey. At the Mandala Healing Center, we understand that each person’s path to recovery is unique, which is why we offer a range of personalized levels of care.
Our dedicated specialists are here to guide you through a comprehensive assessment that takes into account the severity of your addiction, your mental and physical health, and your unique circumstances.
With our three distinct levels of care – detox, inpatient treatment, and intensive outpatient programs – we ensure that you receive the individualized attention you deserve. Our goal is to empower you with the tools you need to overcome addiction and build a healthier, sober future.
Take the first step towards transformation by contacting us today. Let us help you find the level of care that’s tailored to your needs and embark on a journey to lasting recovery.