What happens in Inpatient Alcohol Rehab

What Happens in Inpatient Alcohol Rehab?

Inpatient alcohol rehab is a highly effective treatment for people with drinking issues. A study has even shown that female patients who underwent rehab at six months minimum reported abstinence rates of 68% to 71%. 

Despite the good statistics, a lot of people are hesitant to enter rehab because of the stigma and the ‘fear of the unknown.’ If these factors are stopping you from seeking help, then read on to learn more about inpatient alcohol rehab – and how this might hold the key to recovery. 

What is Inpatient Alcohol Rehab?

Inpatient alcohol rehab is one of the more popular (and intensive) forms of addiction treatment. It involves staying in a treatment facility for several months, depending on your progress or the recommendation of a healthcare professional.

The feeling is similar to being in a hospital because you are surrounded by doctors, nurses, therapists, and other healthcare professionals 24/7. 

Types of Inpatient Treatment

1. Inpatient Alcohol Rehab

As the name suggests, you get to remain in a treatment facility for a predetermined time. The length of stay can range anywhere from 1 month (for people with mild to moderate addiction) to 6 months (for individuals with severe symptoms). The intensiveness of this program makes it all types of alcoholics who wish to get sober once and for all. 

2. Partial Hospitalization

This form of treatment is as intensive as inpatient alcohol rehab. The only difference is the client is allowed to go home after a day of therapy, which may last for 6 to 8 hours per day. 

Partial hospitalization is a good option for individuals who have a stable home condition and/or live near the facility. Although it is less strict, enrollees are continuously monitored for withdrawal symptoms, relapse, and other associated conditions. 

Who is Inpatient Rehab for? 

Any person suffering from alcohol problems can benefit from inpatient alcohol rehab. This is especially the case for those who can’t seem to stop drinking despite the usual interventions (support groups, outpatient treatment.) It doesn’t matter whether the addiction is mild or severe, inpatient rehab might be able to help you out. 

How much does alcohol rehab cost

How Much Does Inpatient Rehab Cost? 

Inpatient alcohol rehab cost depends on the facility and the length of treatment. 1-month programs may cost anywhere from $6,000 to $20,000. For long-term rehab, prices may range from $12,000 to $60,000.

How does an Inpatient Rehab Work?

Step 1: Screening and Intake

The service starts before you get admitted to the rehab facility. The counselor will assess your history of alcohol use, as well as the treatments that you may have tried prior. You will also be interviewed about your medical and psychological history, and this might include details about your family and social life. 

Once the counselor has determined you ‘fit’ to join the program, he/she will inform you about the plans and treatments in store. Additionally, you will be informed about the facility rules that you need to follow. Here are the most common ones: 

  • You need to attend all the sessions.
  • You need to comply with testing procedures. 
  • Threats or acts of violence are big no-nos. 
  • Alcohol, drugs, and other illegal substances are not allowed on the premises. 
  • Inappropriate conduct with the staff is prohibited.
  • Leaving the facility without permission is discouraged. 

After these reminders, you will be asked to complete the necessary forms for enrollment. This is the perfect opportunity to ask questions if you have not done so yet. 

Reminder: Before you get on your way to rehab, make sure to bring these essentials:

  • Identification card (driver’s license, passport, etc.)
  • Insurance documents 
  • Pertinent medical records, including your list of medications 
  • Emergency contacts
  • Clothing
  • Toiletries 
  • Reading or writing materials, or other hobby items 

Step 2: Detox 

In most cases, enrollees have to undergo detox to curb the unpleasant effects of alcohol withdrawal. During this phase, you can expect to receive medications as needed to prevent complications such as seizures or delirium tremens. 

Step 3: Therapy

Once you’ve finished detox, you can proceed with the rehab proper. Depending on your condition, you might undergo any of the following interventions:

Diagnostic tests are done to ensure compliance. Medications such as Acamprosate and Disulfiram, which may help in the management of alcoholism, may be given as well. Treatment for underlying conditions such as liver disease or heart problems will be rendered as needed. 

While in rehab, you may be asked to write a journal, exercise, meditate, even practice yoga. In most facilities, weekend visits from the family are permitted. There are even some that conduct field trips to the beach!

Step 4: Preparation for Discharge

More than just helping the alcoholic deal with his present problem, inpatient rehab can greatly help with the issues that lie ahead. For one, therapists may employ family strengthening practices, which can include parenting education, family counseling, and childcare services to name a few.

Rehab also entails vocational rehabilitation, so you can gain employment after finishing the program. The main focus here is skills development. For example, you may be taught how to write a resume – or how to answer well during a job interview. 

Once you are finished with your rehab stint, you may be referred to case managers who can hook you up with the services that you need. For example, if you need housing or childcare services, the case manager can refer you to the agencies in charge. 

What Happens After Rehab?

The stringency in inpatient alcohol rehab centers can help you stay away from alcohol for the remainder of treatment. It’s a different story, however, once you get home. To continue this abstinence streak, your therapist may encourage you to participate in these aftercare services:

  • Relapse/Recovery support groups
  • Sober housing 
  • Psychotherapy
  • Sober Housing 
  • Local Support 

Aftercare services can help you achieve abstinence, if not a great reduction of alcohol intake. It can also help prevent relapse, which is often the case when there’s no more constant supervision. 

Inpatient alcohol rehab is an effective program that can help you be sober – and remain sober. If you have a hard time recovering even with the help of support groups and whatnot, then this form of treatment is best for you. 


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