Hospital inpatient drug treatment is done in a hospital setting and is supervised by doctors and other medical staff. Hospital inpatient treatment is sometimes necessary in the beginning stages of abstinence when the person may experience the onset of life threatening withdrawal symptoms, which is sometimes true when quitting alcohol as well as a category of prescription drugs known as benzodiazepines which should be monitored very carefully by medical professionals to minimize ant dangerous health complications. Hospital inpatient treatment is also administered to those who desire a medication assisted withdrawal, as is the case with opiate addicted individuals who wish to use this type of detox approach to avoid the harsh withdrawal symptoms associated with heroin or other opiate withdrawal. This type of opiate detox is not treatment in itself however, and these individuals will need additional counseling and therapy to fully recover from addiction.

Persons with co-occurring mental and substance abuse disorders must address both issues in order to recover completely. Some people take drugs or alcohol to alleviate symptoms of mental health complications, and some people take drugs which then, in turn, brings about symptoms which mimic mental health issues, such as depression and anxiety. Addiction treatment professionals know how to distinguish between the two, and can work with clients to appropriately treat real mental health conditions in tandem with any other substance abuse treatment that is done with the person. This has proven to be effective in keeping individuals with mental health disorders off of drugs and mentally stable and productive.

Gays and Lesbians can sometimes have distinctive treatment needs when receiving substance abuse rehabilitation. A specialized curriculum and treatment atmosphere which is conducive to the needs of gays and lesbians is available at certain drug and alcohol rehab facilities across the nation which recognize the unique needs and challenges which gays and lesbians will experience during recovery. Gay and lesbians can achieve full rehabilitation and recovery just like any other person in treatment, however it can be beneficial for gays and lesbians to be in a supportive environment which doesn't judge them or segregate them because of their sexual preference.

There are more and more Spanish speaking clients walking into substance abuse rehab centers every day needing help. Because Spanish is such a widespread language in this country, many drug rehab facilities are prepared to deliver treatment services to Spanish speaking people. Additionally, many treatment professionals make it a point to learn the language so as to be able to provide the treatment and therapy needed for Spanish speaking people.