How to Find an Inpatient Alcohol Treatment Program

If you have a serious drinking problem and need intensive help, an inpatient treatment program may be the vehicle you need to steer you onto the road to recovery.

Difficulty:

Moderately Challenging

Instructions

Things You'll Need

• Computer And Network Support
• Phone Directories
• Antiglare Computer Screens
• Computer Mice
• Computer Monitors
• Notebook Papers
• Notebooks
• Computers

1. Discuss your options with your doctor, therapist or other medical provider, and ask him or her to recommend a few appropriate local inpatient programs.

2. Determine whether you need a specialized program that can also treat drug addictions or psychiatric or physical illness along with your drinking problem.

3. Check with your local hospital to learn about inpatient programs it has that would meet special needs.

4. Call those programs that interest you to see if they are currently accepting clients. If they are, ask how to enroll. If they are full, don't give up. Ask them to recommend another program.

5. Find out from your HMO or private insurance provider what type of coverage is provided for treatment services. If you don't have adequate coverage for the treatment you need, consider public treatment options.

6. Look in the phone book under "Alcoholism" to see if there are any other local programs you want to explore.

7. Visit the Web site of the National Council on Alcohol and Drug Dependence to find links to local inpatient programs online.

8. Ask a trusted family member or friend to help you select the program that best meets your needs if you can't decide on your own.

9. Enroll yourself in the program of your choice. You don't need a doctor's referral to sign up.

10. Remember that inpatient treatment is a good start, but when you are released back to your home, you will need ongoing support from some type of outpatient group or program.

Tips & Warnings

• Talk to a trained professional for further advice if you are confused. The Center for Substance Abuse Treatment at (800) 662-HELP can answer questions or direct you to other sources of information.

• To find public programs, check with your local or state health department, or contact your state alcohol and drug abuse office. You can access your state office online through the National Association of State Alcohol and Drug Abuse Directors.

• Don't give up! Some people experience a relapse after completing treatment, but it is important to try again until it works.