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Misty Forest Path

Watching someone you care about struggle with addiction can be overwhelming, confusing, and painful. While you can’t control their choices, your support can make a meaningful difference. The following guidelines can help you navigate this difficult situation with care, clarity, and compassion.

GUIDELINES FOR FAMILIES

WHAT DO YOU DO FIRST? 

Ask your loved one, “What are they willing to do?” 

 

 

IF YOUR LOVED ONE IS IN CRISIS, CALL THE CRISIS HOTLINE  dial 988.​

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FIRST STEP: 

Factors to consider when choosing inpatient or outpatient detox

(Have an honest conversation with your loved one to determine if they have experienced any of the following nine risk factors.)

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1. High risk of Delirium Tremens (history of severe confusion, hallucinations, tremors, dizziness, fainting, increased heart rate, and high blood pressure).

2. History of withdrawal seizures

3.  Concomitant psychiatric problems

4.  Abuse of other substances,

5.  Suicidal ideation

6.  A seizure disorder

7.  Any kind of liver malfunction

8.  Heart disease 

9.  Electrolyte imbalance (dehydration)

 

If the above factors are present, an inpatient detox for  7-10 days is recommended. 

If the above factors are not a concern, then a medically guided outpatient detox by a primary care physician or an addiction specialist may be recommended.

 

 

 

SECOND STEP:

Once detox has been safely completed,  the following options should be considered.

(Contact your insurance company for a list of providers.)

  1.  Residential therapy is on average 30 days inpatient at a sub-acute medical and therapeutic facility.

  2.  Partial Hospitalization (PHP), where on average, clients spend 6 hours per day in a therapeutic setting but are allowed to return home each evening.  Average length of stay is 7-14 days.

  3.  Intensive outpatient (IOP)-can vary between 9-18 hours per week in a therapeutic setting.  There are virtual options, but they should be explored carefully to be sure that there is no ability to “cheat”.  The average length of time is 12 weeks.

  4.  Outpatient (OP) is usually offered after a successful completion of a higher level of care.  This can be 1-2 hours per week in a therapeutic setting.

  5.  Community Support Groups:  AA, NA, Smart Recovery, Celebrate Recovery, and CDA (Chemical Dependent Anonymous).

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 Questions To Ask When Considering a Treatment Facility

(click above)

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  1.  IF IMMEDIATE CRISIS- DIAL 988 FOR THE CRISIS HOTLINE.

  2. Check out ATLAS at the Shatterproof website for a list of quality treatment centers

  3. SAMHSA hotline number  1-800-662-HELP (4357)

  4. NIAAA Navigator

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If you live in ME or FL and need financial assistance, contact Liberty Bay Recovery in Portland, ME, or Caron Rehab in Delray, FL.

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