There are a variety of treatment options available for individuals struggling with substance abuse and/ or addiction, regardless one’s of race, color, national origin, religion, and sex. While there is an expansive breadth of treatment options available, the main components that make up the entire substance abuse and/ or addiction treatment process are similar across the board and include:
- Detoxification (detox)
- Therapeutic treatment
- Relapse prevention
- Continuum of care that is unique to each person: conforming to the specifications required as the individual’s relationship with drug addiction treatment expands
- Follow-up options to aid in achieving and maintaining sobriety
As an individual progresses through her recovery process her preferences and needs are likely to shift. It is helpful to be mindful of one’s evolving, nuanced needs and to make sure that each component of the treatment process is selected intentionally in an effort to support her continued success.
Treatment Options
The treatment options for communities of color are structured no differently than any other treatment options for those struggling with substance abuse and/ or addiction. The two primary structures for substance abuse and addiction treatment programs are divided between inpatient treatment programs and outpatient treatment programs. Inpatient treatment programs offer a fully immersive experience, as they require an individual to reside at the treatment facility for the duration of her treatment program. Inpatient treatment programs create customized treatment plans that often include a variety of therapeutic modalities (e.g. cognitive behavioral therapy, dialectical behavior therapy, talk therapy, expressive arts therapy, relaxation techniques…etc.). Inpatient treatment programs can provide a woman that identifies as a woman of color with the opportunity to practice implementing the skills she is learning in the substance abuse and/ or addiction treatment program without the distractions that can present when living in her home environment.
Outpatient treatment programs can be helpful for individuals who are unable to commit to living in a treatment facility. For people who have other commitments (e.g. school, work, family/ personal…etc.), an outpatient treatment program will usually work with one’s schedule to help accommodate outside commitments. Outpatient treatment programs allow an individual to reside at home while attending a certain number of daily treatment program hours, over a specified period of time. Offering many of the same therapeutic modalities as inpatient treatment programs, outpatient treatment can equip an individual with the tools needed to remain sober. Outpatient treatment programs provide a safe and supportive environment to learn and practice the needed skills that are fundamental to one’s success. The duration will depend on the program’s requirements as well as the individual’s needs. Most commonly, outpatient programs can last anywhere from fourteen days to three months long.
For Information and Support
Substance abuse and addiction can be incredibly dangerous and can result in severe short and long-term consequences. If you or someone you know is suffering from substance abuse or addiction, please get help as soon as possible. The earlier you seek support, the sooner you and your loved ones can return to leading happy, healthy, and fulfilling lives. There is no reason to go through this alone, and we are here to help. Please feel free to reach out to us for further information or with any questions regarding substance abuse or addiction. We are available anytime via telephone at: 213-389-9964, or you can always email us at: info@friendlyhousela.org.
