No matter how you got started using drugs and alcohol – prescribed medications, illegal drugs, social drinking – the end result is generally the same. Over time, drugs and alcohol change your brain, making it difficult if not impossible to make good decisions. Eventually you need drugs or alcohol just to feel normal, and your use of them can seriously affect your relationships, and maybe your work or school obligations. Yet despite the negative consequences, you find it impossible to stop.
We can help. Sutter care centers have a variety of substance abuse programs that can help you get your life back. The first step is to meet with an addiction specialist to assess your problem. Then together we’ll develop a treatment plan that is right for you. We’ll also help your family and friends to learn more about addiction and how they can best help you get well.
Depending on your needs, your treatment plan may include:
Inpatient Treatment
- Detox — In the Sutter Health network, you can detox from alcohol or drugs (including opiates) safely and comfortably under medical supervision in a hospital. Medications may be used to ease the withdrawal symptoms and help you maintain your initial sobriety.
- After Detox — Many people begin their recovery in a supportive inpatient treatment program where they can recover physically while learning the skills needed to live in and commit to a life of sobriety.
Intensive Outpatient Treatment
- Some people continue living at home during treatment, and others don't need in-depth inpatient treatment.
- Intensive outpatient programs allow patients to build their recovery skills during day or evening programs over several weeks.
Inpatient and outpatient treatment programs typically include individual and group counseling by doctors, therapists and others who have had extensive training in addiction issues. Some patients can also benefit from medication that reduces cravings for drugs. Many also choose to take part in a 12-step fellowship; we offer meetings on-site and can help you find a temporary sponsor to start working on your recovery.
Our goal for your initial treatment is to get you stabilized, help you learn about and establish early abstinence skills, and eventually see you move to a less intensive level of care.
Learning about the disease of addiction and how you can avoid a relapse is a critical part of living in recovery. We offer many groups that will help you develop the skills you need, including:
- Relapse Prevention Education
- Meditation and Relaxation
- Step Study
Aftercare programs are also an important part of staying sober and avoiding a relapse. We offer ongoing support group meetings, access to supportive alumni networks and referrals to community programs. We also have a special six-week outpatient program for those who have relapsed after going through treatment and stayed sober for at least six months.
Having the support of your family members can also be a critical component of recovery. Family members are invited to take part in many of educational and support groups.
Finding your way to a life of recovery is not always easy. But with our help, you can do it.
