When a partner’s substance use disorder has escalated to the point of requiring inpatient rehabilitation, it sends ripples through the entire family system. The Amara Wellness Services rehab and detox facility is one of the most highly regarded in the Charlotte area, equipped to guide individuals through the initial stages of addiction treatment.
However, for partners and loved ones, having a significant other admitted to drug or alcohol rehab can leave you feeling overwhelmed and uncertain about the road ahead. Knowing what to expect during the rehabilitation timeline can help you play a constructive support role.
In this guide, we’ll walk through the typical stages of rehab from intake to discharge planning, with tips for partners on constructive things you can do during the process. Amara Wellness Services and other top Charlotte drug and alcohol facilities recognize addiction is a family disease – and aim to provide education, resources and support so you can contribute to your partner’s recovery.
The First 72 Hours – DetoxificationÂ
The initial stage after checking into rehab focuses on medical detoxification. This involves eliminating substances from the body while managing uncomfortable and potentially dangerous withdrawal symptoms like nausea, headaches, anxiety, and more.
On-site medical teams provide 24/7 monitoring and medications to ease major detox symptoms. Partners can expect very limited contact during this initial 3-day period as your spouse or significant other stabilizes.
Detox timelines vary by individual based on factors like:
Substances used (alcohol, opioids, stimulants etc.)
Frequency and volume used
Previous detox attempts and relapses
Co-occurring medical or mental health conditions
Medical clearance marks the point after detox when therapeutic treatment begins.
The Therapeutic Process – Counseling, Groups, EducationÂ
After achieving initial sobriety, accredited rehabs like Amara Wellness Services shift focus to the psychological and behavioral patterns underlying the substance use disorder. This therapeutic process uses modalities like:
Individual counseling sessions
Support groups covering topics like relapse prevention or life skills training
Family counseling and education for partners to understand addiction’s impact
Introduction to 12-step programs like Alcoholics Anonymous (AA)
Coping skills and mindfulness training
Planning for community resources after residential rehab
This therapeutic immersion lays the groundwork for lasting change. The rehab environment minimizes outside distractions while offering continuous care. Partners can expect regular calls or visitation at this point as schedules allow.
Discharge Planning – Transitioning HomeÂ
As the 30-90 day treatment period nears completion, Amara Wellness Services’ rehab team works on discharge and aftercare planning. This means:
Developing outpatient treatment recommendations post-rehab – intensive outpatient therapy, group sessions, 12-step meeting commitments etc.
Identifying appropriate sober housing or external community resources
Providing partners and family members education for supporting the transition home
Using counseling to address any underlying relationship concerns or home environmental factors
Strong discharge plans give the best chance for maintaining sobriety outside supervised rehab settings. Partners play an integral role in this transition phase.
Navigating Rehab with Your PartnerÂ
Having a spouse or partner go through intensive addiction treatment brings a wave of emotions. The rehabilitation process makes recovery a shared journey. A few tips for constructive support:
Participate in family education days if offered by your Charlotte treatment facility
Work on your mental health and boundaries with a counselor
Help create a home environment free of substance triggers
Develop patience – there may be slips or continued work needed after rehab
Let your partner know recovery is a team effort
If you have questions or need guidance supporting a partner before, during or after their rehabilitation process, resources like the Amara Wellness Services family program can provide answers or referrals to aligned services.
