Struggling with substance abuse and receiving treatment for it comes with different steps. One of those steps is PHP. As a structured program that provides treatment for a set number of hours each day, a partial hospitalization program for substance abuse is a way to gain some tools in a professional setting that can be used in the real world. Having these tools and abilities to cope with things that occur in life can make all the difference when trying to maintain a life in recovery.
What is PHP?
A partial hospitalization program (PHP) for substance abuse is a form of outpatient treatment. Providing daily participation in proven therapies, PHP can also provide a solid foundation for beginning life in recovery.
Partial hospitalization programs for substance abuse treatment are when someone attends groups, classes, individual therapies, as well as some extracurricular activities throughout the week for a set number of hours. Usually, PHP treatment is about five days per week providing treatment as well as free time.
PHP programs also integrate evidence-based forms of treatment and therapies as well as holistic approaches, such as yoga, meditation, and art therapy. These can be integral and successful ways of treating substance abuse.
Elements Included in Partial Hospitalization Programs
One of the most important elements of a partial hospitalization program for substance abuse is psychotherapy. Because psychotherapy can help to break old and toxic thought patterns, as well as address and treat any underlying mental health problems that could lead to turning to substances as a coping mechanism, this makes it the most important portion of PHP.
There are different forms of therapy that are used in this level of treatment. Some of these evidence-based therapies include:
- Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT): proven to be effective in the treatment of many mental health concerns, as well as alcohol and drug addiction, CBT can be a positive form of therapy when addressing these problems and concerns. It can help to make a positive impact toward a positive future.
- Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT): DBT is a form of talk therapy that helps people who feel intense emotions. It can be beneficial to learn healthy ways of coping with those emotions without it negatively affecting the person.
Another element of a partial hospitalization program for substance abuse is group therapy. The benefits of group therapy can be seen in the way those who participate can productively express their experiences and feelings. By being able to feel safe, and share with others who are going through the same things, you can gain someone else’s perspective and experiences that could help you through the situations and feelings you may be experiencing.
How Long Does PHP Last?
When it comes to a partial hospitalization program for substance abuse, it is a short-term form of outpatient treatment. The goal is to help someone gain the necessary tools and coping skills for life outside of a treatment setting.
A PHP program is in place to help you to improve, and feel better before transitioning into a lower level of care in which there is less structure, and you can begin to live your life normally again. When you’re participating in a PHP program, you are learning how to cope with life on life’s terms. As you move forward, you have gained some of the essential tools and can generally handle the stresses of life without turning to drugs and alcohol.
In addition, the length of this level of care is totally dependent on personal growth and development. It can vary from person to person, and not everyone gets through it in the same amount of time.
How to Know if PHP is Right for You?
When you are seeking help for substance abuse, there are many different levels to it. Understanding these different levels can help you to make the most informed decision on what is best for you and your situation. What a partial hospitalization program for substance use offers is a place to stabilize and learn.
The first step is to receive an evaluation for your specific needs. If you are at a point where you are not at risk of harming yourself or someone else, you have some difficulty functioning in work or school, are medically stable, and have a solid support system in place, then PHP might be beneficial for you. Motivation to maintain recovery and live a positive and healthy lifestyle without the use of drugs and alcohol is also integral to participating in this form of treatment.
Partial Hospitalization Programs in Orange County, CA
Substance abuse can have devastating consequences. Accepting and receiving the benefits of treatment is one of the best gifts that someone can give themselves. If you or a loved one are struggling with substance abuse, there is help available. The possibilities for your life are endless with proper care and treatment.
At Ocean Hills Recovery, we offer a comprehensive, personalized plan for substance abuse treatment including partial hospitalization. Contact us today to begin utilizing the benefits of our PHP program.
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