There are two basic options to detox from alcohol: inpatient treatment and outpatient treatment. With inpatient treatment, you live in a rehab facility surrounded by a team of professionals who provide care around the clock to help get you through the process. With outpatient treatment, you live at home at night but return to the facility during the day to get emotional and medical help. There are some other factors to consider with both.
Inpatient Treatment
Inpatient alcohol detox is typically more of a commitment of time and investment. Often insurance will cover a period of treatment, but many people are reluctant to spend the time focusing on their alcoholism. Doctors may administer medication to help make withdrawal symptoms safer and more tolerable. Also referred to as medically assisted detox, inpatient treatment takes anywhere from 5 to14 days depending on the severity of your symptoms.
Inpatient treatment is ideal for those who have been drinking so long that alcohol detox poses a deadly threat. It is also the method of choice for those who have too many temptations at home to complete the detox on their own.
In inpatient treatment, you may have access to amenities like holistic classes, exercise groups, prepared meals, group therapy and programs such as art therapy and yoga that help you find relief and take your mind off the detox process.
The biggest challenge with inpatient treatment is returning home to the lifestyle you lived when you were abusing alcohol. The key is a loving support system of family and friends. Once treatment is over, patients should participate in support groups and keep all follow-up appointments with their therapist and physician.
Outpatient Treatment
Outpatient treatment is ideal for those with a solid support system at home. It’s a less expensive option for those with mild or moderate addiction. It is also perfect for people in good physical and mental shape and for those who haven’t been drinking very long.
According to Scientific American, the success rates for treatment programs vary depending on the facility.