If someone has overdosed or is in danger, call 911 now. For a substance use or mental health crisis, call or text 988.
When someone you love is ready for help, the window can be short. Knowing what the levels of care mean, and what a quality program looks like, helps you move quickly without choosing badly.
Levels of care, from most to least intensive
- Medically managed withdrawal (detox). Monitored care to get through withdrawal safely. Withdrawal from alcohol and some medications can be dangerous without medical supervision.
- Inpatient or residential treatment. Living on site with structured treatment each day, usually for several weeks.
- Partial hospitalization. Treatment most of the day, several days a week, returning home or to sober housing at night.
- Intensive outpatient. Several hours of treatment a few days a week, often around work or school.
- Outpatient. Regular counseling and medical follow-up.
The right level depends on the substance, withdrawal risk, other health conditions, past attempts, and how safe and supportive home is. A clinical assessment should drive the choice, not the program's open beds.
What good programs have in common
- State licensure, and ideally accreditation from The Joint Commission or CARF.
- Medications for addiction treatment where appropriate. For opioid use disorder, buprenorphine, methadone and naltrexone are evidence-based options. For alcohol use disorder, naltrexone and acamprosate are among the options.
- Treatment for co-occurring mental health conditions such as depression, anxiety or trauma.
- Licensed clinicians, an individualized plan, and family involvement.
- A written plan for what happens after discharge.
Red flags
- Offers of free travel, free housing, or cash or gifts to enroll. Paying people to attend treatment is a warning sign of patient brokering.
- Guaranteed results or a one-size-fits-all program length.
- Refusing to discuss medication or licensure.
- Pressure to decide on the phone before anyone has assessed your loved one.
Free, confidential help
SAMHSA's National Helpline, 1-800-662-4357, is free, confidential and open 24 hours a day for treatment referrals and information. FindTreatment.gov lists licensed programs nationwide.
Not sure which kind of care fits? A Grace With Care guide can talk it through with you. Tell us about your loved one or call 855-330-2200.
Sources
This guide is general information, not medical, legal or financial advice. Coverage rules change; confirm details with the program or your plan.
