A Comprehensive Overview of the Typical Experiences and Activities to Help Clients Prepare Mentally and Emotionally for Their Journey Ahead
Embarking on the path of inpatient treatment involves a series of steps, each essential for laying the foundation of recovery. From the initial admission process, where clients may feel vulnerable and apprehensive, to the comprehensive aftercare planning that ensures a smoother transition back to daily life, every stage is a testament to resilience.
An inpatient treatment centre for addiction and mental health, often referred to as a residential treatment facility, is a specialized centre where individuals receive care and support for their substance abuse or mental health disorders in a structured and supervised environment. Residential care provides a safe and supportive space, typically for a stay of 30, 45, 60, and 90 days.
Deciding to address mental health or addiction concerns takes a tremendous amount of courage. Taking that first step, reaching out for support, is often one of the most difficult steps in the process. Yet, once the decision is made to engage in treatment, understanding the journey ahead can alleviate some of the uncertainty.
Before we break down what to expect during an inpatient treatment program, it’s important to know the beneficial services provided on this specific path to wellness.
24/7 Supervision and Support: Inpatient treatment offers round-the-clock care, ensuring that you have access to support and intervention whenever needed. This level of supervision is pivotal for clients experiencing severe mental health symptoms or substance withdrawal.
Structured Environment: Inpatient settings provide a structured and controlled environment, which is proven beneficial for those struggling with mental health disorders and addiction. The organized regimen provided helps manage symptoms, establish healthy habits, and learn useful coping strategies.
Access to Specialized Services: Inpatient facilities offer a wide range of specialized treatment and interventions adapted to specific conditions. This includes psychiatric care, withdrawl management, rehabilitation services, and therapy modalities that may not be available in outpatient settings.
Multidisciplinary Approach: Inpatient treatment offers a multidisciplinary team of healthcare professionals, including doctors, nurses, therapists, counsellors, and other specialists. A dedicated and experienced team provides a collaborative approach, ensuring comprehensive care that addresses the varying needs of clients.
Crisis Intervention: Inpatient treatment is essential for those in crisis or at risk of harm to themselves or others. Living in a controlled environment with on-the-spot access to medical and psychiatric support can help prevent further escalation of crises and guarantee the safety of other clients.
Transition and Aftercare Planning: Inpatient treatment includes planning for the transition to outpatient care or ongoing support services upon discharge. This involves creating follow-up appointments, arranging for community resources, and developing a personalized aftercare plan to support continued recovery and prevent relapse.
Enrolling in an inpatient treatment centre is not just about seeking help – it’s about embarking on a journey of healing and self-discovery. A treatment program is safe space where you are supported without judgement, where you can confront challenges and struggles head-on, and where you can learn to nurture the skills necessary on your path to wellness.
Should your decision be to enter an inpatient treatment centre, such as Simcoe Addiction and Mental Health, a clear understanding of the processes should ease a portion of any potential anxiety about taking the first step in your journey to recovery.
Arrival and Orientation
Admission begins with the initial phone call of reaching out for help, and there is no need for a referral from a doctor or medical practitioner. Throughout the arrival and orientation process, team members will offer support and reassurance as you adjust to your new environment. While some details may differ, the basic admission process upon arrival for most addiction and mental health treatment centres share common steps.
Once the intake documents have been completed, staff at Simcoe Addiction and Mental Health (SAMH) will perform a thorough search through clients’ personal belongings to ensure no prohibited items are brought into the facility. A staff member will give you a tour of the treatment centre, showing you around the facility and familiarizing you with key areas, including therapy rooms, dining rooms, recreational spaces, outdoor areas, and your private or shared room. You’ll also have the chance to meet members of the team so they can explain their roles in your care, and provide information on how to reach them if you need assistance or have questions.
Required Medical and Psychological Assessments
Upon arrival at an inpatient treatment centre, clients undergo a thorough assessment by healthcare professionals. This involves gathering critical information about medical history, substance use (if applicable), mental health symptoms, and other relevant factors.
Specific to SAMH, clients are given a comprehensive biopsychosocial assessment to help understand their needs and help create an individualized treatment plan. A biopsychosocial assessment is a survey conducted by therapists that focuses on how biological, psychological, and social factors affect an individual’s thoughts, feelings, and behaviour. Intake questions around genetics, physiology, personality, relationships, and other factors may be asked as part of the assessment. The treatment team will review your personalized treatment plan with you, outlining the goals and objectives that will guide your recovery journey.
Undergoing Detoxification
If you are addicted to substances, you may need to undergo detox to safely manage withdrawal symptoms. Dedicated medical staff will monitor you closely during this process and provide medications and supportive care as needed.
At SAMH, you’ll be welcomed by a nurse who will perform a series of assessments to address any presenting concerns. In the first 72 hours, all clients are closely monitored to see if the onset begins after admission. It’s common to experience feelings of doubt during this process, but a group of qualified professionals will assist in the process to make it as comfortable as possible.
Participating in Treatment Modalities and Therapeutic Activities
Therapy sessions are a fundamental component of inpatient treatment. The opportunity to explore underlying issues contributing to addiction or mental health challenges is essential, as well as learning coping skills and developing strategies. Addiction counsellors and registered psychotherapists at treatment facilities are always onsite to provide the best quality care possible.
At SAMH, 25 sessions per week are offered to teach effective communication skills, relapse prevention, emotional regulation, and more. Sessions with a registered psychotherapist are also provided to help develop a deeper understanding of yourself and address any traumatic experiences that you may be holding on to. Residential inpatient programs also offer a wide variety of recreational and therapeutic activities. At SAMH, clients have full access to an indoor swimming pool and aqua therapy, basketball nets and tennis court, gym equipment, a sauna, yoga, and art therapy, as well as beautiful grounds with a pond, waterfall, fire pit, and walking paths.
Embracing a Daily Routine and Structure
A structured routine provides a sense of stability and comfort during treatment, and can help reduce feelings of uncertainty and anxiety. A daily routine is designed to support the goals of a treatment plan, build healthy habits, and provide a framework for progress.
Once a successful detox is completed (if applicable), SAMH develops a structured treatment program tailored to your individual needs. This includes a combination of individual therapy, group therapy, family support, educational sessions, and multiple therapeutic activities. Consistency helps reinforce healthy habits, such as regular exercise using our gym, yoga classes, and aqua therapy, as well as enjoying nutritious meals from our executive chefs, getting adequate sleep, and practicing self-care techniques to help support long-term recovery efforts.
Creating a Support Network with Peers
Inpatient treatment centers emphasize the importance of peer support. With inpatient treatment, clients have the opportunity to interact with others who are struggling with similar challenges, share personal experiences, and provide mutual encouragement and support.
SAMH strives to foster a sense of community with our vision and core values to help empower clients to overcome obstacles. Seeing others succeed can serve as a powerful inspiration and demonstrate that recovery is possible. Our program encourages clients to share experiences and lean on each other for support.
Remember, seeking treatment is never a sign of weakness. It’s an acknowledgement of inner strength and commitment to your growth and recovery. Each step taken, no matter how small it may seem, shows an immense amount of courage. And that’s something to be proud of.