Long-term addiction treatment: 3 pros and cons

The difference between short-term and long-term rehab

First, it is important to know exactly what long-term treatment is and how it differs from short-term rehab.

Long-term rehab treatment for addiction to drugs and alcohol is a comprehensive programme that typically lasts for several months. The duration of the programme can vary depending on the individual's specific needs and the type of addiction they are facing. The shortest long-term rehab treatment program may last for 90 days, while the longest can last for a year or more.

The main goal of long-term rehab treatment is to help individuals overcome their addiction and achieve lasting recovery. This is accomplished through a combination of therapy, counselling and support groups, as well as medical care for any physical complications caused by the addiction. The aim is to address not only the addiction itself but also any underlying mental health issues, such as depression or anxiety, that may have contributed to the addiction.

In contrast, short-term rehab treatment usually lasts for 21 days and typically focuses on detoxifying the body and providing individuals with the basic tools they need to begin their recovery. These programmes may not provide the comprehensive care and support that long-term treatment programmes offer.

Three pros of long-term rehab

Here are three pros and cons of long-term rehab treatment compared to a short 21-day rehab programme:

1. Time for healing and recovery:

Long-term rehab treatment provides individuals with the time they need to heal and recover from the physical, psychological and emotional damage caused by their addiction. This includes addressing any underlying mental health issues that may have contributed to the addiction. Therapy and counselling can be more in-depth and effective as there is enough time to address every aspect of the individual’s problem and his or her specific circumstances.

2. Comprehensive care:

Long-term rehab treatment programmes offer a wide range of services, including medical care, therapy, counselling and support groups. This comprehensive approach addresses all aspects of the addiction, including the physical, psychological and social factors that contribute to it.

3. Increased chance of success:

Studies have shown that individuals who participate in long-term rehab treatment have a higher chance of achieving lasting recovery compared to those who only receive short-term treatment. Specifically, treatment outcomes improve dramatically when treatment lasts for 90 days or longer.

Cons of Long-term Rehab Treatment:

Three cons of long-term rehab include:

1. It can be costly:

Long-term rehab treatment can be expensive and many people may not have the financial resources to afford it.

2. Time away from family and work:

Long-term rehab treatment requires individuals to be away from their families and work for an extended period. This can be difficult for some people and may put a strain on their finances if they are temporarily unable to earn an income.

3. No exposure to outside triggers:

Long-term rehab may not fully prepare an individual for the challenges of the outside world as they usually receive treatment in a closed environment away from their everyday life and its associated triggers. This is not necessarily a bad thing, however, as many people need the time away from outside triggers to adequately concentrate on themselves and their healing process. It is recommended that individuals live in a halfway house environment for some time after they complete long-term rehab which will provide them with a safe and supportive environment while they reintegrate back into society.

In summary, long-term rehab treatment provides a comprehensive and individualised approach to addiction recovery that addresses the physical, psychological and emotional aspects of the addiction. However, it can also be costly and require significant time away from work and family. Short-term rehab programmes are paid for by medical aids and may be more feasible for some people with less severe addictions, but they may not have the same level of intensity and support that a long-term programme can provide.

Ultimately, the best option will vary depending on the individual's specific needs and resources. A professional assessment and personalised approach is needed to determine the appropriate duration and intensity of addiction treatment.

Call us today to arrange a free assessment on 081-444-7000. Your medical aid should cover the first 21 days of inpatient rehab.