Telehealth Addiction Treatment in Ohio

Like most conditions, addiction has different severity levels, and each person is unique. Though a person may be diagnosed with substance use disorder (SUD), the medical term for addiction, they may not be physically dependent on drugs or alcohol. The DSM-V defines SUD as the continued pattern of substance use despite negative consequences.

On the other hand, many individuals find themselves physically addicted as well, medically known as chemical dependency. Those with chemical dependency can have a spectrum of symptoms when they quit, ranging from discomfort to even coma or death without medical intervention.

Whether telehealth treatment is even possible will depend on the type of substance being used, the amount, and the frequency. Some people will require at least inpatient medical detox if they wish to stop using for good.

Want to get started with a virtual assessment? Click the button below.

Medical Detox: When Telehealth is Not Possible

If you experience physical symptoms when you stop using or drinking, telehealth addiction treatment likely is not a feasible option. In fact, it could be dangerous. Some common withdrawal symptoms can include:

• Cold sweats
• Tremors 
• Seizures
• Nausea
• Vomiting
• Diarrhea 
• Body aches
• Restless legs

If you experience any of these symptoms when you stop using or drinking, it’s best to discuss your options with a doctor. Do not alter your drug or alcohol intake abruptly or quit “cold turkey” without medical advice. Most people with physical withdrawal choose to enter treatment via a specialized medical detox center.

Some substances can cause painful withdrawal, but are less dangerous. Others can actually cause deadly withdrawal symptoms such as seizures, coma, or death. Typically, substances that require medical detox include:

• Alcohol
• Benzodiazepines, such as Xanax, Valium, or Klonopin
• Tranquilizers, Hypnotics, and Sedatives 

Other substances, while sometimes not dangerous, can cause very painful withdrawal. Many individuals find it nearly impossible to quit on their own and choose to seek help from a detox facility. These include:

• Heroin
• Fentanyl
• Buprenorphine, such as Suboxone
• Opioid Painkillers, such as Oxycontin or Percocet

If you’re unsure if medical detox is right for you, call us today at 800-481-8457. Our specialists are standing by to offer no-obligation assessments. Our physician can help you determine whether detox is medically appropriate.

Residential Treatment vs Telehealth Addiction Treatment

Assuming you are not physically dependent and do not require detox, is telehealth a good idea?

That still depends on the individual, but typically we do not recommend it. For those bordering substance use disorder or with minor addiction issues, telehealth may be a good starting point. There are also options for online therapy and therapy apps. Telehealth can also make addiction treatment more accessible for more people.

However, most individuals seeking addiction treatment will benefit greatly from residential treatment or intensive outpatient treatment.

Addiction is a complex medical condition, and by its very nature, individuals continue to drink or use despite negative consequences. It is not a matter of will power, but rather, SUD is more akin to a mental illness. Even with the intention to quit and get better, some individuals find themselves simply unable to stop.

Being completely separated from drugs, alcohol, and the stresses of everyday life can remove the possibility of relapse, particularly in the most vulnerable period of recovery – the first 30 days of sobriety. 

In fact, there are studies that indicate the longer a person can avoid relapse, the higher their chances of sustained long term recovery. This explains the rise in popularity of long term addiction treatment.

On top of the removal of substances and responsibilities, inpatient treatment offers intensive psychotherapy, behavioral modification, life skills, and holistic therapy designed to help a person break the cycle of their addictive behavior.

You may hear some people say “everything has to change” in order to stay sober, and there is some truth to it. Life before treatment wasn’t working. Inpatient treatment gives clients a complete tool kit of coping skills and a support network to rely on when they go back to “everyday life.” 

If you’re interested in learning more, visit our page about our inpatient rehab in Columbus, Ohio.

Telehealth Assessments at OARC, Online or Over The Phone

While Ohio Addiction Recovery Center is focused on leading inpatient addiction care, our assessment process can be completed over the phone or via online chat. No office visits or physical assessment is necessary to determine whether you are a fit for our facility.

Our assessment process includes:

• Answering questions about the levels of care
• Insurance verification and helping you determine the costs of treatment
• 15-20 minute assessment, where you answer questions about your mental & physical health and substance use
• Scheduling a time for admit or a referral to other treatment providers if you are not a fit for our facility 

When you aren’t a fit for inpatient care at OARC, we may refer you to telehealth options or outpatient care.

Have more questions? See our frequently asked questions here.

For assessment over the phone: 800-481-8457

For online assessment: CLICK HERE