Disclaimer: This post only serves as a gathering of information for general reference. It is in no way to replace comprehensive clinical assessment and treatment recommendation by a licensed substance abuse practice professional.

When it comes to substance abuse treatment, some people get confused and overwhelmed. Others don’t know where to start or what is available.

I have worked in this field in the greater Charlotte area for the past 13 years. So I would like to share some of the information I know. It will at least give you a general idea of what is out there. Hopefully, it will assist you with finding the best option for yourself or your loved one. If you are not sure if you or your loved ones are addicted, click to see the common signs of addiction.

There are different levels of substance abuse treatment. First of all, you will need to be assessed by a substance abuse practice professional. Then you will be recommended for a certain level of treatment. The recommendation is based on:

  • your history
  • current functioning
  • severity of your use
  • withdrawal potential
  • support system
  • other factors (such as mental health and medical issues).

Usually, it is recommended that you go down the levels of care from the initial recommendation to the least intensive. Then you won’t need any professional services. At that point, you can rely on your natural supports in the community.

In treatment, you will learn about

  • addiction
  • recovery
  • how substances affect your brain and your life
  • identifying your triggers
  • stress management
  • how to prevent a relapse
  • how to manage your emotions
  • and a host of other topics and coping skills that will help you stay healthy for the long term.

Detox 

If you are using alcohol, barbiturates, benzodiazepines (Xanax, Klonopin, Ativan, etc.) or other sedatives on a regular basis, you are more likely to have physical withdrawal. Withdrawal from these substances can be life-threatening.

If you are using opiates (pain pills, heroin), the withdrawal can be really uncomfortable. Some describe it as like having the Flu but ten times worse. In those situations, usually it would be helpful to go to a detox facility. So you can get those substances out of your system in a safe environment with adequate professional support. On average, it takes 3-7 days.

A lot of times, clients tell me:”I’m sick and tired of being sick and tired.” but they still couldn’t stop. Because they were trapped in the vicious cycle of using, quitting, getting sick, and using again. In other words, using is no longer fun. And they just want to feel normal or to function. In this case, going to detox is a good way to break that cycle and start fresh.

Inpatient or Short-Term Residential Treatment

It is usually 14-28 days with group and individual counseling provided. They often require you to be sober for a period of time to be eligible. You will often be introduced to or required to go to self-help meetings. For example, 12 steps, Alcoholics Anonymous, Narcotics Anonymous, Celebrate Recovery, etc.

Residential Treatment

These programs are longer than 30 days. They can range from 3 months to 2 years. Sometimes people need that long period of time. Because they need to be away from old environment and triggers longer. They may need more time to learn different coping skills. In addition, they may lack a support system. As a result, they need those longer programs to build a solid foundation. It will then reduce the chance of relapse.

Some programs may require you to have completed inpatient or intensive substance abuse treatment. Some of them are faith-based.

There is also a list of perinatal and maternal substance abuse residential programs in NC. Their substance abuse services are provided specifically for women who are pregnant and/or parenting. Women can receive treatment while keeping their children with them.

Outpatient Treatment

Outpatient treatment is sub-divided into several different levels.

  • Substance Abuse Comprehensive Outpatient Treatment (SACOT). It provides at least 20 hours  of services per week over a period of up to 6 months.
  • Substance Abuse Intensive Outpatient Program (SAIOP). It provides at least 9 hours of services per week over a period of 3 months.
  • Then it is what I call “regular outpatient” which may also include aftercare. You typically would receive 1-3 hours of services per week. It can last from a couple months to years depending on your situation, the provider, funding source, etc.

Most of the time, just like inpatient or residential treatment, the main format of treatment is group counseling. You can usually request individual counseling in addition to group counseling.

Medication-Assisted Treatment

It is the use of FDA-approved medications, in combination with counseling and behavioral therapies. It is to provide a comprehensive treatment of substance use disorders. Make sure you talk to your medical provider if you are considering this option.

  • The medications commonly used for opioid use disorders are Methadone, Naltrexone (daily pill or monthly injection), Buprenorphine (daily tablet, film, or monthly injection, or 6-month implant).
  • The medications commonly used for alcohol use disorders are Disulfram, Acamprosate, and Naltrexone.

Contrary to what some people believe, it is not just a substitution. These medications work in different ways to help people stay in recovery. They can be another effective tool to help people

  • manage withdrawal symptoms
  • reduce cravings, prevent relapses
  • prevent disruptions of daily life.

I provide outpatient therapy for addiction issues. You can check out this page to see how I can help people with addiction or call me at 704-282-1661.