There are a few different settings and formats in which addiction recovery programs operate, and one of the most intensive and often effective is inpatient rehab. Prospective patients of inpatient rehab and those close to them often have a few questions about this program, and one of these topics is often how to qualify for inpatient drug or alcohol rehab in the first place.
At Moonlight Mountain Recovery, we proudly offer both outpatient and inpatient rehab programs for addiction treatment, including alcohol rehab, drug rehab and more. While we don’t prefer terms like “qualification” for our rehab programs given the weight they carry, it’s true that some people will be particularly ideal fits for these programs while others might have optimal fits in outpatient or other programs. Here are some of the basic approaches that may be used to determine the ideal treatment method, some of the general criteria that are evaluated, and more.
Medical Detox Often Comes First
In many cases, those who are seeking inpatient rehab will have already gone through some sort of medical detox process. This is an important initial step for many substance abuse issues, as it helps patients get past the physical dependency that may be present and begin focusing on other areas of treatment.
During medical detox at Moonlight Mountain Recovery specifically, we use a combination of professional therapy and medication to assist with withdrawal symptoms. These symptoms can include both physical and mental health challenges depending on the individual patient’s history and their specific substance issue.
Support through this process can make it far easier to move onto the next stages of inpatient rehab.
Assessment and Evaluation
Following medical detox, the next step is usually a thorough assessment process that will help determine which type and level of rehab are most appropriate for the individual. This may involve several different areas:
- Physical health: On top of any existing substance issues, we’ll also assess overall physical health and ensure that no other significant challenges or complications are present.
- Mental health: We’ll also look into any history or current symptoms related to mental health conditions like depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder or others. These can factor into both initial diagnosis and long-term treatment plans.
- Social support: We’ll also evaluate the level of support a patient has in their life, including family and friends who can be there for them during recovery. In some cases, lack of this support could lead to different recommendations.
Diagnosis of Chemical Dependency
Depending on the results of this assessment and evaluation period, a formal diagnosis of chemical dependency will be made if appropriate. This is often a key factor in determining whether a patient is suited for inpatient rehab or another program type.
For instance, a patient with a long history of multiple substance abuse issues, or someone who has relapsed several times in the past, might be recommended for inpatient rehab out of concern that their condition is particularly severe and requires intensive care.
Environmental, Family and Support Factors
While we mentioned this briefly above, it’s also important to note that inpatient rehab is often recommended for those who have limited support systems or potentially negative influences in their environment. In some cases, these factors may be contributing to the patient’s substance abuse issues and need to be addressed in a more controlled setting.
Additionally, patients who have been through several prior treatment programs without success may be better suited for the structured, intensive approach offered by inpatient rehab. This can help break patterns of relapse and provide the best possible chance at long-term recovery.
Emotional Bandwidth
Because inpatient programs involve a higher level of intensity and structure, they may not be the best fit for those who are unable to commit significant time or emotional energy to their recovery at that moment. This is another factor that will be evaluated during the assessment process.
For example, a patient who is dealing with severe financial stress or family issues might be recommended for an outpatient program that allows them to balance their recovery with other important responsibilities.
Cultural Factors
Finally, while it may not be a factor in all cases, cultural elements can play a role in determining the best rehab program for an individual. Some cultures view mental health and substance abuse very differently than others, and this can impact how a patient responds to different types of treatment.
In these situations, Moonlight Mountain Recovery strives to provide culturally sensitive care and accommodate any specific needs or preferences related to culture or religion. This helps ensure that patients feel comfortable and supported throughout their recovery journey.
We hope this overview has provided some insight into the general factors that may be considered when determining who is best suited for inpatient rehab. For any specific questions about our programs or your own potential eligibility, don’t hesitate to contact us at Moonlight Mountain Recovery, whether you’re in Boise, Pocatello or any nearby part of Idaho.