Imagine for a moment, living in a facility where you are well taken care of. A place where individuals are happy to listen to you talk for over an hour. Perhaps, those individuals may even feel persuaded to fix certain grievances and problems that you may have.

In truth, the above words can conjure up images of a beautiful resort. However, it denotes the lifestyle that is afforded when one checks themselves into an inpatient facility. The grievances and problems fixed are of extreme importance, as they ensure the health of the participant.

For a person struggling with substance abuse, living in a controlled environment can be a blessing and a hardship. For one, they can stay away from the impulse to indulge in their addiction. Yet, the withdrawal symptoms that accompany the lack of using the substance can be extremely uncomfortable.

Regardless of the hardships, an inpatient facility is known to be effective in leading a patient to recovery. If you or a loved one is struggling with an addiction, it would be wise to consider such treatment. Below are a couple of answers to the questions that you might have about it.

What is Inpatient Treatment?

Inpatient treatment is one of the two rehabilitation options that a patient has to choose from. The other is known as the outpatient treatment program.

The former mentioned form of treatment usually has the patient stay within the confines of the facility. Hence, the patient undergoes 24/7 supervision and guidance. This may sound rigid, yet; it allows the patient to be fully involved in the process of recovery.

The length of stay at the facility depends and differs from patient to patient. Some may be required to stay for 30 days, while others might have to stay for 90.

This type of treatment makes sure that the patient has full access to the staff and a reliable support system.

What Does the Treatment Entail?

The initial stage will have the patient undergo a detox. If the patient detoxed before joining the facility, then this step will be skipped. The patient will then be encouraged to take part in certain activities that help develop healthy habits.

From journaling and meditation to yoga and massages, the patient is encouraged to look within. In other words, they are encouraged to try and understand their addiction, why and how it started and how to recover. Other crucial skills, such as how to manage triggers and cravings, are also taught.

What Type of Exercises are Patients Engaged In?

One of the things that the patients are required to do is exercise. As you can imagine, with such ample time, one must remain active.

Users are used to filling their time by indulging in other activities directly related to substance abuse. Establishing a new routine and new habits can be very frustrating, but also beneficial.

Such habits help improve one’s overall well being. They include:

• Yoga
• Pilates
• Golfing
• Stretching
• Aerobics
• Walking
• Swimming

What Are the Benefits to Joining the Program?

There are so many benefits to joining such a program. If you are in any doubt as to the benefits, below are a few of them:

• The patient is separated from the toxic environment that is likely to lead to a relapse.
• The patient has ample time to reflect on his actions, mistakes and struggles. During this time, they can realize the mistakes they made and the relationships they destroyed. Also, they can identify how their addiction started and the triggers that make it hard to stop.
• Patients are no longer in contact with the people that encouraged their
• Patients are provided with 24/7 care, medication, treatment and therapy necessary for a full recovery.
• The treatment is designed to help the patients heal, not only emotionally and physically, but mentally.
• Families are allowed to visit their loved ones and offer the attention, love and support needed.
• This treatment is known to be very successful and effective.
• The program gives the patient a certain structure to his/her daily lives. This structure is designed to help the patient establish a new way of living even post-treatment.

Who Is the Program For?

This type of program is often considered by those that suffer from a serious addiction. Other factors can also influence the decision to join such a program. For instance, if the patient or the patient’s family is financially able, they can pay for it. This is because this type of treatment is more expensive than the alternative.

It is also ideal for those that know such treatment will not disrupt their daily lives. If you know that you have certain responsibilities that cannot be ignored, then opt for another.

What To Consider Before Joining Such a Program

Below are the top things to consider before joining a program:

• The type of addiction treated at the facility
• If any aftercare options are given after the treatment period is over
• If they are licensed. If they are, what are their credentials?
• The type of therapies offered, their uses and benefits
• The cost of treatment
• If they have a good support system and staff
• The kind of programs offered at the facility. For instance, many facilities offer the 12-step program among many others.

Whilst trying to choose, do not be afraid to ask around. Carry out some research, look at the location, cost and the reviews given by previous patients. It is always necessary to carry out due diligence before committing a loved one to any type of facility.