Recovery from addiction is a life-long process. The first few weeks of intensive treatment can set you up for success. But after rehab, you may benefit from ongoing therapy, peer support groups like AA or NA, and lifestyle changes to minimize the likelihood of relapse.
Medical Detox
Medical supervision during detoxification is often necessary. Some substances, like benzodiazepines and alcohol, can have fatal withdrawal symptoms if you quit cold turkey. Medical staff monitor you 24/7 as you are safely weaned yourself off all addictive substances. In some cases, it may be appropriate for doctors to prescribe medications that ease withdrawal symptoms.
The types of medications available for detoxification depend on the types of substances you are using. For example, methadone and buprenorphine are helpful for people who have been abusing opioids. They mitigate the body aches, diarrhea, nausea, and vomiting that accompany withdrawal. You can stay on the medication for weeks, months, or years if necessary.
Inpatient Drug Rehab in Colorado
Inpatient treatment is rehab where you live on the premises for the duration of your program. Many people begin this journey attending a medical detox center in Colorado, then transition over to an inpatient recovery program. Treatment usually lasts 30, 60, or 90 days, though some programs can be longer.
Most facilities rely on evidence-based treatment methods. You will have a daily schedule of supervised activities and therapy sessions, including:
- Individual therapy
- Group therapy
- Family therapy
- Peer support
- Relapse prevention planning
- Medication oversight
- Aftercare planning
Being in a residential facility cuts back on opportunities for relapse during the early weeks of recovery. You’re able to get away from work, school, and family responsibilities to focus solely on your recovery. Programs usually offer counseling or education opportunities for family members, as well. This prepares loved ones for the changes necessary to help you maintain long-term recovery.
Step-Down Care
After completing inpatient rehab, you may still want or need active support for your recovery. Step-down care helps you to slowly acclimate to life post-rehab.
Standard outpatient treatment: These outpatient programs generally consist of three-hour sessions, three to four days per week (though you may attend more or less frequently). Some programs have day and evening treatment options. People who prefer to live at home and have adequate support from friends and family can benefit from these programs.
Intensive outpatient substance abuse treatment (IOPs): A step down from PHPs, IOPs are a type of outpatient treatment in California allowing you to attend onsite sessions for several hours a day, multiple days each week, while spending the rest of your time at home, working, or fulfilling other obligations.
Partial hospitalization programs (PHPs): PHPs are a type of outpatient treatment in California that often involve many of the same therapies and methods of inpatient care. The difference being that you only visit the drug rehab during scheduled session times, then you can return home.
Aftercare and Relapse Prevention
Once you have completed rehab, you should make sure you have support for continuing progress and relapse prevention. Recovery is a long-term process, and continued support makes it easier to achieve your goals. Most rehabs in Colorado assist you in creating a unique aftercare plan for yourself, so you can take charge of your care after you leave treatment. These plans should take family, work, and school responsibilities into account.
Some people benefit from staying in a sober living facility. These are homes where several people who have completed rehab live together. The intention is to learn to be independent in a supportive environment. There are varying levels of oversight from counselors.
Peer support groups like AA or NA are helpful for people who prefer the 12-step recovery model. If you would rather have a different peer support approach, Smart Recovery is a group that focuses on encouraging positive behavior changes.
In the event that you have a “slip” or relapse, you can call on your aftercare network for help. Slips are common, and it’s not a sign of failure. Reach out to your counselor or group leaders to ask for help. They will work with you to get the additional help you need to resume recovery.