How Do I Know If I Need Inpatient Rehab for Substance Abuse?

How Do I Know If I Need Inpatient Rehab for Substance Abuse?

People who benefit most from an inpatient level of addiction treatment typically fall into one of three categories:

• Individuals who are at a high risk of experiencing drug or alcohol withdrawal
• Individuals who have experienced a relapse
• Individuals who have tried a less intensive level of drug or alcohol treatment but were unable to stay sober

Most patients who come to us for inpatient rehab also struggle with a co-occurring mental health condition, such as depression, anxiety or post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), that needs to be addressed during addiction treatment.

Another factor to consider in choosing between an inpatient and outpatient rehab center is whether you have a healthy and supportive home environment where your recovery will be a priority. If you do, outpatient treatment could be a good fit. Otherwise, a residential treatment program where you will have a built-in system of support will probably be the most effective option.

A licensed addiction professional can help you weigh all of the different factors and determine the best level and type of treatment program to meet your needs.

How to Tell if You or a Loved One Needs Help

Addiction to alcohol or other drugs leads to negative consequences in pretty much every area of life: social, emotional, financial, legal, physical health, employment, family, and school. Knowing the signs and symptoms of addiction can prompt earlier intervention and, ultimately, better outcomes. 

Behavioral Signs and Symptoms

• Always uses substance to intoxication
• Uses substance at inappropriate times such as before driving, at work, or at school
• Misses work or school
• Damages relationships
• Poor performance at school or work
• Steals or borrows money from work, home, or friends
• Secretive, defensive behavior about activities and possessions
• Unusual mood changes
• Abrupt temper outbursts
• Changes in eating or sleeping habits
• Changes in peer group or social group
• Loss of interest in usual activities, pastimes, and hobbies
• Aggressive or physical behavior
• Money or valuables missing from home
• Traveling to locations outside of normal range

Physical Signs and Symptoms

• Rapid weight gain or loss
• Slow or staggering walk
• Inability to sleep or awake at unusual times
• Unexplained bruises or marks
• Glazed or red eyes
• Pupils larger or smaller than usual, blank stare
• Cold, sweaty palms or shaking hands
• Puffy face, blushing or paleness
• Extreme hyperactivity; excessive talkativeness
• Runny nose, hacking cough
• Needle marks on lower arm, leg or bottom of feet
• Nausea, vomiting, or excessive sweating
• Unusual nose bleeds
• Unexplained breakout of acne/rash
• Unusual odors
• Low or no energy
• Depressed or anxious
• Deterioration of personal appearance or hygiene

Stories of Recovery

• The encouragement, love and support from the team at Crossroads allowed me to eventually see that I was worth something - that my life could be turned around and that I could accomplish the things that had long been a forgotten dream.
  Oliver VG
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• On the last day of my stint at Crossroads I could only express gratitude towards all who works there. A wise councillor once commented on my question when one is ready for rehab by explaining that when one is ready for rehab, rehab is ready for you.
  Johan B
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• I was lost and my soul was broken until I ended up at Crossroads and was introduced to the Twelve Steps. With the help of their excellent staff and amazing support I have recently been clean for 18 months, I could not have done it without them!
  Carla S
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• "Just for today I am more than three years in recovery. I have Cross Roads to thank for this wonderful gift. Cross Roads helped me to set a firm foundation in my recovery on which I can continue to build."
  Angelique J
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