During the COVID-19 pandemic, those who experienced more stress reported higher amounts of drinking. Approximately 60% of surveyed individuals stated they drank more during the pandemic than 13% who consumed less. The reasons for an increase in drinking other than stress were boredom and alcohol availability.
Alcohol rehab in Springfield, MA treats alcohol use disorder and helps people start their recovery. Even small increases in alcohol consumption can change neuropathways in the brain and lead to substance misuse. Cutting back without help is challenging and frustrating.
Instead, we have put together a complete guide that will assist you or a loved one find the right alcohol rehab program in Springfield, MA for you. We will go over different addiction treatment program types and their benefits, including how you can get started today.
What Is Alcohol Use Disorder?
Alcohol use disorder is a medical condition and type of substance use disorder. It entails an individual who consumes alcohol to the point of adverse health, relationship, and lifestyle outcomes. There are three main severities of alcohol use disorder:
- Mild
- Moderate
- Severe
An alcohol use disorder diagnosis depends on a few factors. There are varying objective measures for men and women for alcohol misuse and binge drinking. Here are some of the criteria:
- Alcohol misuse for women: 3+ drinks/day or 7+ drinks/week
- Alcohol misuses for men: 4+ drinks/day or 14+ drinks/week
- Binge drinking for women: greater than 4 drinks in 2 hours
- Binge drinking for men: greater than 5 drinks in 2 hours
Additionally, an official diagnosis depends on symptom presentation. Mild alcohol disorders include two to three symptoms; moderate includes four to five symptoms, and severe more than six symptoms. Some everyday alcohol use disorder symptoms include:
- Unable to stop drinking despite wanting to
- Hiding the extent of alcohol consumption
- Denial
- Missing work, school, or hobbies for drinking
- Distress
- Increase in risky behavior (e.g., unprotected sex, drinking, and driving)
- Poor coordination
- Impaired memory
- Feeling sick from drinking
- Withdrawal symptoms
- Other co-occurring disorders
A screening by a professional medical practitioner can confirm an alcohol use disorder and recommend the next steps.
Alcohol Use Disorder Risks
Excessive alcohol consumption, even in a short period, is associated with adverse health outcomes. The World Health Organization has identified more than three million annual deaths from alcohol use.
Alcohol use disorder is linked with over 200 diseases and health conditions. Some of the more common diagnoses related to alcohol consumption are:
- Mental health illnesses
- Behavioral disorders
- Liver cirrhosis
- Cancer
- Cardiovascular disease
It also has ties to unintentional and intentional injuries and the transmission of infectious diseases. Drinking while pregnant can lead to fetal alcohol syndrome or birth complications.
Alcohol Rehab 101
Alcohol rehab in Springfield, MA can reduce health expenses and improve outcomes for those suffering from alcohol use disorder. An important distinction to remember is that it is a medical condition that also impacts mental and emotional health.
Alcohol rehab centers in Springfield, MA should emphasize physical recovery and treat underlying mental illnesses. Unfortunately, it is difficult for practitioners to know whether mental health illnesses affect drinking rates or vice versa.
During the COVID-19 pandemic, drinking increased. Researchers discovered that 35.3% of people with mental health conditions noted negative health outcomes from increased drinking during this time. Approximately 17.8% without a known mental health condition reported similarly.
More than 21% of patients with mental health illnesses who reduced drinking had positive results. On the other hand, over 14% without mental health conditions also had positive outcomes with reduced drinking. Along with treating mental illnesses, alcohol rehab also focuses on:
- Detox
- Inpatient or residential treatments
- Partial hospitalization programs
- Intensive outpatient programs
- Outpatient therapy
Within these treatments, you can expect individualized treatments and skilled professionals.
Inpatient or Residential Treatments
Residential alcohol programs are 24/7 inpatient stays. It requires a person to remain in a facility for a specified time, usually after a detox program.
It lasts seven days a week and can continue for weeks to months. Inpatient rehabilitation is highly structured, supervised, and secure. Often, it is an ideal treatment program for individuals on suicide watch or those without support at home.
Another benefit of residential treatments is you have on-site medical personnel. On the downside, insurance covers residential therapies and is not always covered by residential therapies.
Private alcohol residential treatments cost around $17,000 per month. High-end programs are even more expensive at $26,000 to $100,000 per month.
Location, amenities, and treatment lengths can affect the final price tag. If residential treatments are not medically needed, other options are equally effective and more affordable.
Partial Hospitalization Program in Springfield, MA
A partial hospitalization program (PHP) for alcohol rehab is an excellent choice for addressing a substance use disorder. PHPs are a step below inpatient hospitalization and a notch above intensive outpatient programs. Time commitments in a PHP are approximately six hours daily, five days a week.
The time frame a person remains in a program is primarily dependent on:
- Cost
- Insurance coverage
- Substance use severity
- Underlying mental health conditions
- Relapse
Those who participate in a PHP will likely transition to an outpatient or intensive outpatient program afterward. The types of therapy utilized in a PHP are:
- Individual therapy
- Group therapy
- Peer support groups
- Other evidenced-based practices
Substance use disorder experts help address the root causes of addiction, co-occurring disorders, and set achievable goals. Participation in group and individual therapy provides a person with tools that carry over into real-world experiences. And it facilitates long-term success.
Studies found that PHPs are useful to help lower costs. Eating disorder inpatient programs cost $2,267 per day.
On the other hand, PHPs cost $1,000 per day. Many times, people are admitted into residential programs without intrinsic motivation.
This critical component can lead to problems down the road and a longer recovery period. PHPs increase daily accountability and assist people in living normal lives.
Intensive Outpatient Program in Springfield, MA
An intensive outpatient program (IOP) is an addiction recovery program that is less time-consuming. It is a step above an outpatient program, requiring five hours of therapy daily for three to five days.
Patients often attend IOPs after completing an alcohol detox program or residential treatment. An IOP is a great stepping stone toward outpatient therapy or intermittent AAA meetings.
Why should you choose an IOP?
- More flexible scheduling
- Longer duration than traditional outpatient programs
- Participate in peer support groups
- Helps develop normal routines and real-world experiences
- Lower costs than residential treatments
- Accountability
IOPs are excellent tools for a seamless transition into the real world compared to PHPs. It helps you utilize the skills learned in therapy and works toward mastering coping strategies. When searching for “alcohol rehab MA,” don’t neglect programs that offer virtual IOP.
The COVID-19 pandemic sheds light on the benefit of virtual rehabilitation when in-person therapy is not an option. It offers an affordable and easy way to continue the recovery process. What can you expect from a virtual IOP?
- Daily group meetings
- Individual counseling
- Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT)
- Dialectical behavioral therapy (DBT)
- And more
At Northstar Recovery Center, we offer completely online services for those who cannot attend traditional IOPs.
IOP vs PHP
When comparing an IOP versus a PHP, is one better than the other? Not necessarily. It depends on the severity and duration of substance abuse, other comorbidities, and your recovery process.
Studies have pinpointed that IOPs are equally as effective as inpatient programs. Although, they are not the gold-standard recommendation for patients with suicide ideation. IOPs are primarily designed for patients who:
- Do not require medical detox
- Are not suicidal
- Have home support
- Have time commitments for work and school
PHPs were initially designed for patients who had co-occurring mental health illnesses. It is still an ideal treatment option for patients with anxiety, depression, or other mood disorders. PHPs are also useful for immediately following a detox program.
Alcohol Rehab vs Detox
An alcohol rehab program is different from an alcohol detox center. Alcohol detox is performed in a medical center with 24/7 supervision. Qualified medical professionals will monitor your withdrawal symptoms and use medication-assisted treatment if needed.
Often, medical practitioners use benzodiazepines to help with seizures and other withdrawal symptoms. Blood pressure, body temperature, and respiratory status are closely monitored.
In some cases, patients with severe alcohol use disorder develop thiamine deficiencies and may require injections or supplements. Practitioners can perform simple blood tests that check these levels.
How long does alcohol detox take? On average, residents remain in an alcohol detox center for one week. Afterward, patients usually attend residential treatments or PHPs.
When Is Medication-Assisted Treatment Used?
Medication-assisted treatment (MAT) is always recommended with some form of therapy. MAT is primarily used for withdrawals and alcohol cravings. The three most commonly used medications are:
- Acamprosate
- Disulfiram
- Naltrexone
Studies found that naltrexone was the most effective at reducing alcohol cravings and drinking behaviors. The group who used naltrexone also had fewer relapses, but they had more significant side effects.
The downside of naltrexone is that it is a prescription opioid antagonist. It blocks opioid receptors in the brain and has the potential to cause respiratory distress, and is usually only administered in more severe cases.
Finding Addiction Treatment Springfield, MA
A qualified addiction recovery program helps long-term success and improved quality of life. Here are some tips for finding a qualified alcohol rehab program near you:
- Ask family and friends for referrals
- Read online reviews
- Ask about insurance coverage and pricing
- Check qualifications and licensure
- Ask about specific therapies
- Ask about experience
- Ask about different therapy options and continued level of care
You want an addiction treatment center that caters to your individual needs with licensed providers. Finding an alcohol rehab program specializing in multiple levels of care assists in your recovery. For example, at Northstar Recovery Center in MA, we have compassionate and experienced employees who work in:
- Partial hospitalization programs in Springfield, MA
- Intensive outpatient programs in Springfield, MA
- Evening-only intensive outpatient programs
- Virtual programs
One of the therapies that Northstar Recovery Center specializes in is cognitive-behavioral therapy. We also include:
You will learn about the physiological components of alcohol use disorder and how to recognize and address your triggers. Individualized programs work with you to develop coping and life skills. Adding group therapy allows individuals to work together and find support in one another.
Is Alcohol Rehab in Springfield, MA Effective?
The good news is that alcohol rehab is effective for many individuals. Experts found that recovery is achievable and can improve health and social factors. Rehab also helps with reducing the number of DUI arrests, intimate partner violence, and healthcare costs.
Research shows that seeking treatment saves nearly $4 in health costs and $7 in criminal costs. One important concept to remember is that relapses do happen. In drug abuse cases, relapse occurs nearly 85% of the time.
However, studies pinpointed other chronic conditions, like asthma, have high relapse rates too. Longer alcohol abuse and other individual factors can affect recovery. Remaining vigilant in treatment programs and seeking medical care curbs relapse rates.
Rehab centers work with patients who go through relapses and develop skills that will prevent future ones. Qualified programs assist individuals in finding support groups, holistic therapies, and more.
Find an Alcohol Rehab Center Near You
Have you wondered about an alcohol rehab near you? Whether you have an interest in rehab for you or a loved one, alcohol rehab centers offer evidence-based practices that help in recovery.
Alcohol use disorder can shorten lifespans and lead to greater healthcare and criminal costs. It worsens mental health conditions and harms relationships.
Starting on the recovery road by yourself is challenging. If you have severe withdrawal symptoms, it is also extremely dangerous. Instead, let the experts at Northstar Recovery Center help you. Contact us today for more information on our programs!
WHO WE ARE
Northstar Recovery Center in Southborough, MA is made up of a team of experienced, dedicated, and compassionate addiction treatment professionals. We want to see our community heal from the effects of the opioid epidemic, alcohol addiction, and other substance use disorders.
Day Treatment Program in MA
The Day Treatment in Massachusetts, also referred to as PHP (Partial Hospitalization Program) or IOP (Intensive Outpatient Program), is the highest level of care offered at Northstar Recovery Center. This addiction treatment option encompasses comprehensive clinical care and behavioral therapies. In the initial stages of recovery from addiction, it's crucial to have robust support to navigate both physical and emotional challenges. Our dedicated team at Northstar Recovery Center, located in Southborough, MA, and West Springfield, MA, is committed to assisting you in establishing a solid foundation for a lifelong recovery from addiction to drugs and alcohol. Clients typically visit our addiction treatment center in Massachusetts each weekday for several hours, engaging in counseling sessions and other necessary interventions. This approach ensures a balanced and effective recovery process, tailored to individual needs within the framework of Day Treatment.
Individual, Group, and Family Counseling in Massachusetts
Addiction thrives in isolation, which is why group counseling sessions are a foundational part of our addiction treatment plans. In group sessions, you’ll gain perspective on your struggles with substance abuse and can connect with others who understand your experiences. Family counseling can help your loved ones understand the disease of addiction, navigate conflict and build healthier relationships. In individual counseling sessions, you’ll be able to work through personal issues like past trauma with the help of an experienced therapist.
Contact Northstar Recovery Center
Let us guide you on your journey to recovery from addiction. Connect with our team today.