During residential treatment, a patient lives on-site and gets 24/7 care. Ontario residential treatments vary broadly and cover everything ranging from a short period in a facility for medical detoxification to a year at residential treatment vicinity. For young adults, they get accorded a high level of supervision and containment to ensure they stay safe.
It is essential to realize that a residential treatment program is not the final step to recovery; hence you are advised to go for a less restrictive level of care with which you will be safe and successful. Below, we take an extensive look at some of the pros and cons of the program;
Safety and containment
For patients who are suicidal, a danger to others, or the level of substance abuse has escalated to a point where their life is in danger, it is vital to give them 24/7 supervision medical care.
Medically-supervised detoxification
After a person has withdrawn from certain substances on which he/she was dependent, on can be dangerous. Therefore a professional must supervise the withdrawal process so that the patient will be on the safe side.
Supporting basic functioning
Ontario residential treatment program is appropriate for impaired patients and struggling with basic functioning such as taking medication and hygiene. For this reason, the program stands out as one of the best treatment programs.
Avoid stressors and temptations.
At times, patients choose residential treatment programs to avoid their typical stressors and temptations, and in the end, they can get a fresh perspective of life. Bearing in mind that the residential treatment program is for inpatients, following the program with outpatient care is valuable as it helps maintain changes.
Acts as an alternative to hospitalization
For patients who require hospitalization, the program provides a long-term and more consistent environment that will help them stabilize and live a healthy life.
Stabilize re-occurring disorders
Patients experiencing symptoms such as mania or psychosis will require hospitalization or inpatient services until the symptoms are resolved or lessened.
Cons of residential treatment programs
- Cost
Most of the inpatient programs are super-expensive. Insurance covers part of the bill, while in some instances, it covers zero percent. Not many people can afford the program; hence end up opting for other options. In some cases, family and friends get tasked with coming together and clearing your ever-increasing bills, which is a burden.
- It’s only the first step.
Most families are not aware that the program is just the beginning of a long road to recovery. After the program, the outpatient program kicks in, and it’s the moment your family should be extra-supportive and dedicate much of their time to cater to your needs. In the end, your family spends time on you rather than doing something productive out there.
- Difficult translation
After learning the culture and expectations of an inpatient program, patients seem to be high-functioning but have not yet faced the challenges of the outside world. Therefore, they get to struggle with the transition after undertaking the program.
The tips let you know of the pros and cons of residential treatment, but one must get opinions from professionals on the deserved level of care for the patient. In the end, you can make an informed decision.