Struggles with drugs and alcohol often require professional treatment in order to recover and achieve long-term success. According to a 2009 National Survey on Drug Use and Health done by the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Service Administration (SAMHSA), there is a huge treatment gap in this country, with 23.5 million people struggling with alcohol or drug problems and only 2.6 million receiving proper treatment. There are so many different options and levels of treatment that it can be difficult to understand which is the right answer.

Treatment programs fall into one of two main categories: outpatient treatment and residential treatment. Outpatient treatment usually offers a flexible schedule in which you attend programs during the day and then return home in the evening. While this does allow a little more privacy as long absences from friends and acquaintances do not have to be explained away, the process can be slow and at times unsuccessful. Addicts have to deal with the same temptations and triggers while in recovery, often making it more difficult to abstain from alcohol and drug use. Residential treatment programs are more comprehensive, offering around-the-clock supervised care and support.

How Residential Treatment Works

Residential treatment generally lasts a minimum of 28 days, during which patients are checked into the facility and recovery becomes their fulltime job. Residential treatment centers offer structure and a safe place for healing and recovery.

Often, people struggling with addiction have already attempted some form of outpatient treatment that was ultimately ineffective. Residential treatment is intensive and can provide long-term success. Some of the services offered at residential treatment centers include:

  • Detox overseen by consulting physicians
  • Nutrition plans
  • Fitness classes
  • Individual therapy sessions
  • Group therapy and support groups
  • Skill-building lessons
  • Family support and therapy
  • Experiential therapy
  • Treatment and monitoring of withdrawal symptoms

Residential treatment allows all medical and mental health professionals to work together under the same roof to plan and implement a complete and structured program tailored to each individual. If medication is required, that too can be closely monitored. Schedules are maintained and the time is filled; staying busy is an important tool to combat cravings. Structured meal and rest times can help regulate body metabolisms and promote physical well-being. Diet and exercise have proven useful tools for recovery as well.

Residential programs also encourage group interaction, giving patients the chance to gain emotional support and be part of a safe community. Families are often invited to attend and lend support also. Residential programs offer the chance to start over and press the reset button, helping addicts to discover the root of their addiction and how to make important lifestyle changes to guard against future relapse.

Finding the Right Program

With so many options to choose from, selecting the right treatment center can seem overwhelming. While outpatient care may seem like a more cost-effective and less intrusive answer, oftentimes addicts are unable to break the cycle while still immersed in their everyday lives. The cost of addiction and reentering treatment multiple times is much higher in the long run. Residential treatment can last a lot longer, but also provide a stronger foundation and reduce the rate of relapse.

Black Bear Lodge offers a comprehensive residential treatment program against a breathtaking backdrop of nature’s bounty. Call 706-914-2327 today to set up an individual consultation. Our admissions coordinators can answer any questions you may have about our program.