One of the perceived barriers to treatment for individuals with addiction is uncertainty about the experience. Often it is not the most difficult part of the recovery journey, it is taking the first step to acknowledge the need for help. Review the basics of what drug rehab entails and how to get the most of the experience.
Rehab Defined
Drug rehab is the process of treatment and recovery from substance and drug abuse as well as addiction. Rehab programs are either inpatient or outpatient and provide services which include:
- Psychological treatment
- Counseling
- Pharmacological support where needed
- Medical detox program (where offered)
- Aftercare program referral
Detox clinics require constant medical supervision, diagnosis and administration of medications when needed. Detox may not be provided as a part of some inpatient or outpatient programs.
Rehab Goals
Three main goals exist for drug rehab centers to target with individuals seeking treatment. Included are the following:
- End drug abuse. The most important aspect for rehab centers is to focus on recovery during rehab to help individuals live a sober life and meet personal goals
- Treat psychiatric disorders and psychological conditions. Typically individuals with substance abuse issues also experience co-occurring mental health disorders after prolonged use. Drug rehab aims to help treat the issues or refer to a facility to help treat the issues.
- Improve general health and life. A person’s general health and life decline rapidly during active drug use so it is important to discontinue use altogether. Health will improve mentally and physically and personal circumstances may begin to change for the better.
Steps in Rehab
Individuals in rehab may experience the following steps:
Assessment – intake and assessment is essential to a stay in rehab. Rehab personnel assess the current condition, define nature of drug or alcohol use and determine a specific, individualized treatment plan. Usually a drug test is conducted at this time.
Medical detox – medical detox is helpful for people who are physically dependent on drug of choice. Inpatient drug rehabs offer medical detox. Withdrawal symptoms will be monitored in detox by medical staff with possible distribution of medicine for withdrawal. Medical detox is supervised by a medical doctor or psychiatrist for best results.
Psychotherapy, Treatments and Pharmacotherapy – this phase includes analysis of mental and emotional condition to make positive changes in thinking, feeling and behavior to prevent relapse. Pharmacotherapy utilizes prescription medication based on individual need, possibly started during medical detox.
Education – Having knowledge of addiction processes is important in rehab to empower individuals to stay clean and maintain long-term sobriety for overall physical and mental wellness.
Supportive Services & Aftercare – Supportive services offered during drug rehab may include help with social services, financial planning, vocational training or skills development. This may include creation of a support network, attendance at support groups, counseling and other aftercare services.
Following rehab, a personalized plan will be developed which may include sober living. Community and family support are an essential part of long term sober living.
If you or a loved one are considering drug rehab for addiction, the Villa can help. Call us to find out how we can support your journey to recovery with tools, resources and information on the drug rehab process.