The information provided in this article has been gathered with Tennessee in mind, but is relevant to anyone, regardless of their location.

Addiction is scary and overwhelming. Once trapped in the vicious cycle of seeking the high while avoiding the withdrawals, one can easily lose himself. Feelings of helplessness, combined with the inability to use sound judgment, make addicts extremely vulnerable.

Often, patients recovering from substance abuse disorders get a second diagnosis. The most common ones are related to mental disease (co-occurring disorders). Another typical scenario is the abuse of two or more drugs simultaneously. The reason behind multiple substance abuse is that often addicts develop a high tolerance to the named drug after repeated consumption. This necessitates either greater dosages of the same substance or mixtures of two or more substances.

The most viable path to recovery is through treatment. Why do patients omit to seek the help they so desperately need, though?

Addicts battle their internal conflicts daily. Modern society also worsens the struggle with constant judgment and lack of communication. Negative emotions quickly escalate until the point of which the addict no longer believes in the possibility of sobriety.

What everyone needs to remember is that being supportive and proactively listening to the addict’s problems could save their life. One conversation could bring profound revelations and enable the patient to get the courage to seek and receive adequate treatment.

If you are attempting to help someone in a difficult situation but do not have the resources to guide them on their journey, you should consult with a professional. You can start with a simple Google search, e.g. “Top Treatment Center in Franklin, TN” or “Drug Rehab in Hendersonville, TN”. Once you narrow down the results, contact your preferred facilities and inquire about their therapy options.

What Treatment Choices Are Available In Tn?

The state government has secured over $30 million to combat addiction. The funding is supposed to inject most of the funds in various treatment programs and facilities. The goal is to provide more options to the affected communities and help them find appropriate recovery solutions.

The type of treatment the patient chooses depends on the severity of their addiction, their budget, lifestyle, and personal goals.

Moderate To Severe Cases

For those suffering from a moderate to severe form of a substance use disorder, a program involving hospitalization is recommendable. Two of the most preferred choices among Tennessee’s residents are:

Drug & Alcohol Detox

The journey to sobriety often starts with medical detox. It prepares the body for the rest of the procedures to follow by completely flushing out all the toxins from the patient’s system.

Though possible to do at home, most addicts in Tennessee opt-in for a detox treatment in a designated facility. The dangers and complications associated with withdrawal symptoms require constant medical attention.

When you get admitted into a drug and/or alcohol detox, doctors and qualified personnel are there to serve your needs. They can help you cope with any issues, both physical and psychological. When necessary, the physician may choose to administer adequate pain killers to alleviate your symptoms.

Inpatient Treatment Center

Addicts with moderate to severe addictions are referred to specialized treatment centers. The programs vary in duration and amenities. However, the common denominator is that the patient is admitted to a safe, drug-free environment where they receive expert therapy.

There are two main types of inpatient treatment centers in Tennessee:

Including Detox

In this case, the patient’s journey begins with a medically assisted detox as a part of their inpatient treatment program. After successfully cleansing their organism, they are often transferred to another facility where therapy continues.

Post-Detox

Not all recovery programs include a detox. Sometimes, patients choose a detox facility without the intention of carrying on with another treatment. However, upon completion of that first step, they realize that they need extra support. Often, their environment is dangerous, and triggers could provoke a relapse. Hence, they decide to commit to another inpatient treatment.

Mild To Moderate Conditions

Many addicts prefer programs without hospitalization. They do not want to commit to a lengthy program far away from home, due to family and work commitments. Often, they suffer from a cognitive dissonance where they have to choose between their sobriety and beloved ones/financial stability.

Tennessee’s treatment providers have recognized the need for expansion and have invested more funds into the development of such facilities.

Partial Hospitalization Programs (PHPs)

Patients with moderate addictions who are unable to commit to an inpatient treatment will benefit the most from this type of program. They often require intensive therapy but cannot commit to full hospitalization.

Though somewhat flexible, most PHPs still demand at a minimum of 20 hours of weekly therapy sessions. This option is highly recommended for patients suffering from a dual diagnosis, who are unable to undergo a prolonged isolated treatment.

Outpatient Treatment Services

Though addicts do not get admitted to an isolated facility for an extended period, they are still required to commit to all the terms of the outpatient program. When necessary, they could still undergo medically assisted procedures in a safe facility.

The flexibility of this option appeals to busy professionals, who cannot abandon their routines. As long as they attend their regularly scheduled therapy appointments and follow the treatment schedule, they can carry on with their day-to-day activities.

Sober Living Houses (SLHs)

The evolution of sober living houses was a natural occurrence stemming from the need for more flexible recovery options. People who desire to retain their freedom while remaining drug-free benefit the most from SLHs.

In these facilities, the residents could come and go as they wish. There is no set therapy program or minimum stay required. The only commitment that everyone should comply with is to refrain from using or enticing others to use any drugs.

Final Thoughts

Choosing an adequate treatment option plays a crucial role in the addict’s path to recovery. When the patient finds the right type of therapy, it can give them the necessary courage, strength, and confidence to heal and remain sober.