The River Source Tucson

Drug and alcohol addiction often takes a heavy toll on one’s body. Over time, a physical dependence can develop, meaning the body physiologically needs the substance to function. Detox is the process of removing drugs and/or alcohol from the body, a process that can be lethal if mismanaged. Medical detox is done by licensed medical professionals who monitor vital signs and keep you safe, healthy, and as comfortable as possible as you go through detox and withdrawal.

Residential treatment programs are those that offer housing and meals in addition to substance abuse treatment. Rehab facilities that offer residential treatment allow patients to focus solely on recovery, in an environment totally separate from their lives. Some rehab centers specialize in short-term residential treatment (a few days to a week or two), while others solely provide treatment on a long-term basis (several weeks to months). Some offer both, and tailor treatment to the patient's individual requirements.

Many clients who enroll in an outpatient rehab program are exiting intensive inpatient care and no longer require such high-level clinical supervision. Outpatient programs typically follow a step-down structure, with treatment frequency and intensity decreasing as clients progress in their recovery journey. Partial hospitalization (PHP) and intensive outpatient (IOP) levels of care are the most time-intensive and are designed primarily for clients who have just left inpatient treatment or who are at an elevated risk of relapse.

Intensive inpatient programs (IOP) offer high-level support for clients in early recovery, those exiting detox or inpatient rehabs, and those at an elevated risk of relapse. Intensive outpatient treatment typically includes rigorous individual, group, and family counseling. Evidence-based complementary therapies, such as acupuncture and massage, are widely available. Medication assisted treatment (MAT) may be provided. Clients in IOP receive a minimum of nine hours of treatment per week but may engage in up to 20 treatment hours weekly.

Telehealth refers to services that are delivered virtually -- for example, through a live one-on-one video conference with a counselor -- instead of in person. Telemedicine rehab is ideal for people who want to stay in touch with their mental health provider but have difficulty getting to appointments.

Completing a drug or alcohol rehab program shouldn't spell the end of substance abuse treatment. Aftercare involves making a sustainable plan for recovery, including ongoing support. This can include sober living arrangements like halfway houses, career counseling, and setting a patient up with community programs like Alcoholics Anonymous (AA) or Narcotics Anonymous (NA).