Starting addiction treatment can be a transformative moment in your life. Choosing to embrace such a change is a big step, so, understandably, you may still have pressing questions before you begin. In the case of a partial hospitalization program (PHP) in Nebraska, many people want to know: How long does PHP last? What is PHP? What treatments are offered in a PHP program? And is it the right choice for me and my recovery?
Calling Northpoint Omaha at 888.687.8014 can connect you to professionals who can answer these questions and help you get started on the path to recovery.
What Is PHP?
PHP, short for partial hospitalization program, is a form of outpatient treatment that maximizes the amount of time you receive therapies, treatments, and professional support. PHPs are the most intensive of all outpatient treatments, with patients attending treatment five or six days a week for several hours at a time.
While patients in a PHP still return home at night to sleep, eat, and rest, they receive all of the treatments and therapies provided at an inpatient treatment center.
Length of PHP Treatment Days
There is some variability in the length of PHP treatment days, but typically, people will attend treatment for six or more hours per day. This provides ample opportunity to participate in a variety of treatments, including:
- Individual therapy
- Group therapy
- Family therapy
- Medication-assisted treatment
- Cognitive-behavioral therapy
All of these treatments are grounded in scientific evidence that shows they are effective at helping people quit substance use and maintain their recovery. They can also provide extensive peer support, educate patients about substance use disorders and mental health challenges, and help people grow and thrive in their recovery.
Since treatment only takes place during the day, patients in a PHP are free to return home after their therapies are completed and spend time with friends, family, and loved ones. Some people may also be able to continue working but may need to change their schedules to accommodate treatment.
Many people find that the time away from treatment is when they struggle with cravings, triggers, and thoughts of returning to active addiction the most. This is common and presents an opportunity to begin using the coping skills you learn during treatment. Speaking openly with your counselors and peers about your struggles when away from the treatment facility can help you stay motivated to recover.
Overall PHP Length
We now know that a PHP goes for about six hours each treatment day, but how long does PHP last in total? Typically, the average PHP length is between three and four weeks, but this can vary depending on the patient, the provider, and your insurance coverage.
The length of PHP targets the most critical period of substance use disorder recovery: the first thirty days. This initial period is often the hardest for people to break through, as drug cravings, the physical side effects of addiction, and mental health concerns all peak throughout this time.
Addiction professionals can provide the necessary tools and coping mechanisms to teach people how to overcome these challenges, both in the moment and for years to come.
Start a PHP Program at Northpoint Omaha Today
If you or a loved one have been struggling with a substance use disorder, starting a partial hospitalization program can give you the boost you need to finally achieve your recovery goals.
At Northpoint Omaha, our experience has proven that anyone can recover from a substance use disorder, provided they get the professional addiction treatment services they need.
To learn more about our partial hospitalization programs and how we can help you achieve sobriety, call 888.687.8014 to speak to one of our trained addiction professionals and start your own journey to recovery without delay.