What Do You Think About Short-Term Versus Long-Term Recovery From Addiction?

In the battle against addiction, the difference between short-term and long-term recovery can be significant. Both approaches revolve around the same basic process of detox, counselling, and support, but the long-term approach far exceeds in depth and scope. Short-term recovery efforts are usually built on an admissions process and completing a set of loosely organized recovery goals.

Long-term recovery, however, provides more comprehensive and structured assistance over a more extended period. It can often include relapse prevention, aftercare planning, and support from family members and peers. The short-term recovery model focuses primarily on detox and stabilization since it is easier to make changes in the short term. During this period, the individual must adhere to the plan outlined by the facility and follow its directions for completing various healing therapies, skill-building, and self-care tasks.

The duration of the stay typically ranges from two to four weeks. While this type of detox can provide some initial success, it is not often a sustainable solution long-term. Long-term recovery, on the other hand, aims to cultivate meaningful and lasting changes by utilizing various treatments and therapies.

This type of recovery is usually recommended for those dealing with more severe issues with addiction, such as chronic substance abuse or extended periods of alcohol or drug use. Treatment at this level usually includes a combination of one-on-one talk therapy, group counselling, 12-Step programs, medication-assisted treatment, and relapse prevention.

The actual costs of addiction

The actual cost of addiction is often far more than just financial, impacting the health and well-being of the affected individuals. Addiction has diverse effects, such as:

  • Physical, psychological and social distress
  • Damaged relationships between family members
  • Difficulties finding employment or academic success
  • Serious illnesses related to substance use, such as liver and kidney failure
  • High medical bills

All this combined represents a heavy burden for those affected by addiction – one that can have long-lasting effects on their lives and those around them. Short-term addiction treatment has been proven to be a successful intervention for addicts.

Individuals who go through it benefit more than those who fail to maintain abstinence without various treatment options. Short-term addiction treatments typically involve:

  • medication administration
  • cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT)
  • psychotherapy and
  • Other evidence-based interventions

These are tailored to the individual’s needs to equip them with the tools and techniques necessary for long-term recovery. Furthermore, short-term treatment programs typically offer more frequent access to medical care and counselling services than long-term treatments. That is key in preventing relapse or reducing the severity of it should it occur.

Short-term addiction treatments allow individuals to learn healthy coping mechanisms and break free from destructive addictions. Long-term addiction treatment has been proven to:

  • Improve recovery outcomes
  • Reduce relapse risk
  • Create lasting change

Long-term rehab canters help to establish a foundation of sobriety and give patients the time and space to navigate issues that may have been perpetuating their drug use. Furthermore, strategies such as progress monitoring have shown success in helping individuals complete their programs.

There are several modalities involved in Long term addiction treatment, including:

  • cognitive behavioral therapy
  • motivational interviewing
  • trauma-informed care
  • evidence-based practices.

These provide an opportunity for introspection and insight into one’s wellness journey that can be sustained over time after discharge from the facility. In summary, every addict is entitled to a personalized treatment plan. You can call us today at 833-680-0165 if you are ready to get started