LEVELS OF CARE FOR SUBSTANCE ABUSE TREATMENT
Our main levels of care include detox, stabilization, and residential treatment. Each level addresses the unique needs of our patients at various stages of their recovery journey. They are also designed to provide the support and treatment needed to achieve long-term recovery.
Keep reading to find out more about the levels of care for substance abuse treatment we offer at Magnolia City Detox in Houston, Texas, and how they can help you overcome substance abuse.
A continuum of care approach starts with an evaluation of the person’s needs and the severity of their addiction. Based on this, patients are placed into the right level of care. Our levels of care for substance abuse treatment start with our Houston medical detox program, then we transition our clients to our stabilization program, then finally, residential treatment.
Relapse is common in recovery, so in the continuum of care approach, patients can also step down to a previous level of care. This allows patients to receive appropriate support in each stage of recovery and gives them the best chance at success.
Additionally, our approach recognizes addiction is a chronic disease that requires ongoing treatment. It also recognizes the importance of individualized care. Each patient has different needs at different stages of recovery; when these needs are met, a patient’s overall well-being improves, leading to lasting recovery.
Levels of Care: Detox
Detox, or detoxification, is the first level of care in substance abuse treatment. It is the process of withdrawing from drugs and alcohol. During detox, the body rids itself of toxins such as drugs and alcohol. This treatment step is crucial for physically dependent people, as they must be free of all substances before starting any treatments.
The safest way to detox is in a medical setting while being supervised by medical professionals. Medications are often used to manage withdrawal symptoms which vary depending on the substance and the severity of the addiction. Withdrawal symptoms can range from mild discomfort to severe and even life-threatening complications.
Detox is the first level of care for substance abuse treatment because it lays the foundation for the rest of the recovery journey. It allows patients to physically and mentally prepare for the next level of substance abuse treatment.
A person can not proceed with other forms of treatment without first detoxing because withdrawal symptoms make it difficult to focus on recovery. Furthermore, detox helps break the physical dependence on drugs or alcohol, which is crucial for long-term recovery.
Medications Used in Detox
Medications are often used to manage withdrawal symptoms and to keep patients comfortable during detox. Some of the medications that are commonly used in detox include:
- Antidepressants – These medications are used to manage withdrawal symptoms from stimulants such as cocaine and methamphetamines. They work by changing the levels of brain chemicals and can alleviate depression, anxiety, and agitation.
- Methadone – Methadone can help manage withdrawal symptoms from opioids such as prescription painkillers and heroin. It works by binding to the same receptors in the brain as opioids without creating euphoric effects.
- Buprenorphine – Similar to methadone, buprenorphine also manages withdrawal symptoms from opioids. It works by partially activating the same brain receptors as opioids. This helps reduce withdrawal symptoms and cravings.
- Naltrexone – This medication blocks the effects of opioids and is often used in combination with buprenorphine or methadone.
- Benzodiazepines – These medications help manage withdrawal symptoms from alcohol and other sedatives. They work by increasing the activity of the neurotransmitter GABA which helps reduces anxiety and agitation.
Many medications used in detox are highly addictive. For this reason, medications should be closely monitored by a medical professional. Additionally, medications are only part of a comprehensive treatment program and should be used in combination with therapy and other forms of support.
Levels of Care: Stabilization
The second level of care for substance abuse treatment is stabilization. It is designed to help patients stabilize mentally and physically after detox. This level of care is crucial in recovery because it helps patients develop the solid foundation for recovery that was laid in detox.
During stabilization, patients participate in psychotherapy, also known as individual therapy, group therapy, and support groups. The goal of stabilization is to address any underlying mental health conditions, such as anxiety and depression, that may have contributed to the development of substance abuse.
Stabilization helps patients develop coping mechanisms to manage cravings and triggers. Therapy also teaches life skills such as stress management, healthy communication, and self-care. These skills are essential for patients to build and maintain their recovery.
Stabilization in The Woodlands serves as a transition period between detox and residential treatment. It allows patients to adapt and acclimate to the recovery process and being sober before moving on to the next level of care for substance abuse treatment. When patients go through stabilization, they are better prepared for the next level of care and increase their chances of long-term recovery.
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Levels of Care: Residential Treatment
Patients participate in individual and group therapy and support groups during residential treatment. They also engage in recreational activities and holistic therapies such as yoga and meditation, which benefit overall well-being and lasting recovery.
Residential treatment is an important level of care for substance abuse treatment because it provides patients with a structured environment where they can focus solely on their recovery. The triggers and temptations are removed from their daily lives, which are significant hurdles in early recovery. Patients in residential treatment develop the tools and skills they need to maintain long-term recovery.
Moreover, our inpatient rehab in Houston, Texas provides patients with the highest level of support and structure, which is beneficial for those who have been struggling with addiction for a long time. By living in a community with others in recovery, patients can support each other and learn from others’ experiences. Patients develop a sense of belonging and build a lasting support system that can last beyond residential treatment.
The Importance of Therapy in Addiction Recovery
During individual therapy, patients work one-on-one with a therapist or counselor to identify and address underlying emotional, psychological, and behavioral issues contributing to their addiction. This can include issues such as depression, anxiety, stress, and trauma. By addressing these issues, patients develop a deeper understanding of themselves and build healthy coping skills to make better choices.
Patients also work through their feelings of guilt, shame, or regret associated with their addiction. This helps patients develop a greater sense of self-compassion which is crucial in recovery.
Furthermore, individual therapy can help patients set goals and develop a plan to achieve these goals. This can include identifying triggers, developing coping strategies, and setting realistic expectations for the future. This helps patients establish a sense of direction while motivating and empowering them in their recovery journey.
Why Should I Choose a Continuum of Care Program in The Woodlands?
If you are struggling with substance abuse, finding a program that offers different levels of care for substance abuse treatment is crucial. Our program at The Woodlands in Houston, Texas, does just that!
Our program is perfect for any person at any stage of addiction. At first, you may need a lot of support, but as you progress through treatment, you may require less. Our levels of care program adjust to your needs and offer the best chance at lasting recovery.
The Woodlands has a fantastic team of professionals who are experienced in treating addiction. They provide high-quality care and support in a structured and safe environment, allowing you to focus on your recovery. Contact us today to start building a life of recovery.
Dr. Olaniyi O. Osuntokun
Dr. Olaniyi O. Osuntokun is a Neurology & Psychiatry Specialist based in Conroe, Texas, and Lafayette, Indiana. He has extensive experience in treating Individuals with substance use disorders and addiction. He earned his medical degree from University of Ibadan College of Medicine and has been in practice for more than 20 years.
