People who have a serious drug addiction, but do not wish to attend a full-on residential drug treatment program would be well-advised to consider partial hospitalization.  Partial hospitalization programs offer intense drug rehab, while still allowing the individual to live at home during the process.

What you need to know about partial hospitalization

1. The program is affiliated with a hospital or other medical facility. Outpatient services may be overseen by a non-for-profit group or other organization.   As the name would indicate partial hospitalization provides drug rehabilitation through an affiliation with a hospital.
2. Partial hospitalization is not for those classified as a danger to themselves or others.  Partial hospitalization is designed for those who are not experiencing suicidal thoughts or need round-the-clock medical attention.
3. The program takes up a large portion of the day. Although individuals commute to the program on their own, once at the hospital they can expect to stay for at least six hours a day.  This time is taken up mostly by individual and group counseling sessions and consultations with physicians on staff (in necessary).
4. Partial hospitalization is often covered by insurance.  Many major medical insurers cover all or a portion of the cost of these types of programs, making them attractive to those fighting addiction to drugs such as heroin, crystal meth, cocaine, marijuana or painkillers.
5. A chance to use what you learn. One of the advantages of partial hospitalization programs is the ability to integrate what is learned there in everyday life.  Counseling one day on inter-personal skills or good decision-making can be put to use the next day when the individual is in a position to potentially fall back into bad habits.  This type of drug rehab is akin to on-the-job training for life!
6. Dual diagnosis. For those with dual diagnosis – co-occurring mental illness and addiction — partial hospitalization can be an ideal solution.  Provided the individual is not a high-risk patient (which unfortunately many with dual diagnosis are), the medical professionals on-staff at the hospital can provide proper care for the mental illness component of the diagnosis, while counselors work the addiction side.  Dual diagnosis treatment is highly specialized, so the individual is urged to check with the facility first to see if such programs are offered.
7. Home. The biggest advantage to partial hospitalization is the ability to go home in the evening and be close to family.  Spouses, parents and children form an outstanding support structure for those attempting drug rehab, and the ability to see them, and gain strength from them only increases the effectiveness of the program.  (Note: it is up to the individual to avoid situations and relationships around the home that could lead to relapse – for example, seeing friends who do drugs, etc.)

There are thousands of partial hospitalization programs throughout the United States.  RehabDirectory.com is a resource for information on top drug and alcohol treatment programs and covers a variety of styles and practices.  Visit www.rehabdirectory.com to find a program that meets your needs and goals today.