Addiction rehab isn’t one-size-fits-all, each individual is unique and their recovery depends on the person. One individual may need intensive outpatient treatment for 6 weeks, another may need inpatient treatment for one month then intensive outpatient treatment. There is no “do this for 28 days and you’re cured” rehab.
If you are curious about treatment for yourself or a loved one, contact us for a confidential assessment.
An individual’s treatment will depend on their past, the severity of the addiction, and where they are in the addiction recovery process. Addiction usually follows several predictable stages, the Jellinek Curve is a tool for explaining those stages and is a useful way to identify where someone is along the progressive path of addiction.
The Jellinek Curve
Created by E. Morton Jellinek and later revised by Max Glatt, the Jellinek Curve is made up of two, curving halves - the left half curves downward and represents a person’s decline from substance abuse to addiction. The right half curves upward and stands for a person’s rise from addiction to sobriety.
It’s important to understand that the Jellinek Curve shouldn’t be used to diagnose addiction. Instead, as an educational tool that can be used to motivate people towards positive and lasting changes.
The Crucial Phase
The crucial phase represents when an addiction begins to take hold. It often begins with social drinking, then progresses into occasional relief drinking. This is usually followed by an increased dependency and feelings of guilt, social avoidance, and loss of willpower. This loss of willpower results in increased periods of intoxication, possibly including binge drinking, and the inability to moderate or restrict use, ultimately leading down to the lowest section of the curve.
The Chronic Phase
There is a loop at the bottom of the Jellinek Curve where individuals often become trapped in the cyclical nature of addiction, spiraling deeper and deeper under its influence. This is when outside help really becomes necessary in order to begin the recovery process.
The Rehabilitation Phase
Beginning with an honest desire for help, the path begins to curve upward at a steady incline. After stopping drinking, an individual begins to think clearly and appreciate the possibility of a new life. Self-esteem is rebuilt, new connections are forged, and courage and a strong support network encourage individuals to continue the road to recovery.
If you find yourself or a loved one past the first stage of the Jellinek Curve, you may have questions about addiction treatment. Contact us today for a confidential call to answer your questions about personalized addiction treatment options.