Inpatient Rehabilitation: What You Need to Know

When it comes to addiction recovery, there is no one-size-fits-all solution. The best treatment option for you will depend on a variety of factors, including the severity of your addiction, your medical history, and your personal preferences. For some people, outpatient care is sufficient. Others may benefit from a more intensive level of care, such as inpatient rehabilitation. 

Inpatient rehab refers to a type of treatment in which patients live at the facility for the duration of their program. This allows them to receive around-the-clock care and support from medical professionals and other staff members. Inpatient rehab programs typically last 28 days, but some may be shorter or longer, depending on the needs of the individual patient. 

The History of Inpatient Rehabilitation

When most people think of inpatient rehab, they likely picture a contemporary facility with state-of-the-art resources and highly trained staff. However, the history of inpatient rehab is much longer and more varied than most people realize. Here’s a quick overview of where inpatient rehab started and how it has changed over time. 

The first inpatient rehab facility is thought to have been founded in 1796 by Benjamin Rush, a physician from Philadelphia. Rush’s facility, which was known as the Hospital for the Insane, was designed to treat patients with mental illness through a combination of medication and moral treatment. While controversial at the time, Rush’s approach was considered groundbreaking and paved the way for subsequent facilities that would adopt similar methods. 

In the early 1800s, several large institutions for the mentally ill were built in Europe, including asylums in France, Belgium, and Russia. These asylums employed a variety of methods to treat patients, including work therapy and hydrotherapy. The rise of asylums coincided with the development of new medications for mental illness, including chloral hydrate (a sedative) and antipsychotics such as lithium carbonate. 

While there is evidence that some patients did benefit from their stay in an asylum, many were subject to horrific conditions, including overcrowding, neglect, and abuse. In response to these conditions, various reform movements emerged in the late 1800s and early 1900s advocating for more humane treatment of patients. As a result of these efforts, many asylums were shut down and replaced with smaller, community-based facilities. 

The field of psychiatry made significant strides in the mid-20th century with the introduction of electroconvulsive therapy (ECT) and psychotherapy. These developments paved the way for psychiatric hospitals—which began to resemble rehabilitation hospitals more closely—to become an integral part of mental health care. By the 1970s, most states had ceased using asylums altogether. 

Inpatient rehab facilities have continued to evolve since then, incorporating newer therapies and treatments as they become available. Today’s facilities are designed to provide comprehensive care that addresses not just the patient’s physical needs but also their psychological, social, and spiritual needs. With a multidisciplinary team of experts working together, patients can receive the care they need to recover from addiction and build a foundation for long-term sobriety. 

Benefits of Inpatient Rehabilitation

There are many benefits to choosing inpatient rehab over other types of treatment. One of the most important is that it provides patients with a safe and drug-free environment in which to detox and recover. This is vital for those who have been struggling with addiction for an extended period of time or who have relapsed after previous attempts at recovery. 

Inpatient rehab programs are also highly structured and provide patients with a set schedule that includes individual therapy, group therapy, and recreational activities. This can be beneficial for those who feel they need more structure in their lives or who have trouble sticking to treatment plans. The constant support from medical professionals and other staff members can also be helpful for those who are struggling with significant emotional issues or trauma. 

Potential Downsides of Inpatient Rehabilitation

Of course, inpatient rehab isn’t right for everyone. One potential downside is that it can be expensive; most insurance plans will cover at least part of the cost, but patients may still be responsible for paying a deductible or copayment. Additionally, some people may not be able to take time off from work or family obligations to attend an inpatient program. 

Another consideration is that not all inpatient rehab programs are created equal; some may have lower staff-to-patient ratios or fewer amenities than others. It’s important to do your research before choosing a program to make sure it’s a good fit for you. 

Seeking an Inpatient Rehab Center

If you’re considering addiction treatment, inpatient rehab may be an option worth exploring. It offers many benefits, including 24/7 support and a structured environment, but it’s not right for everyone. Talk to your doctor or a treatment professional to see if it’s right for you.