The drug and alcohol rehab process can be confusing and overwhelming for both those directly facing addiction as well as their friends and family members.
Below, we’ll clarify the concept of rehab: explaining what it involves, its process, and its main goals. We’ll also describe the different types of rehab programs and provide a glimpse into daily life during addiction rehabilitation.
Drug and Alcohol Rehab Defined
Rehabilitation for drug and alcohol addiction is a structured program designed to help people overcome their addiction and lead a sober, healthy life.
Unlike detoxification, which focuses solely on the physical aspect of addiction by removing substances from the body, rehab addresses the underlying psychological and behavioral aspects of addiction.
Rehab is where those suffering from addiction go to learn the skills needed for long-term recovery and how to rebuild their lives without dependency on substances.
Who Is Rehab For?
Addiction rehabilitation programs are for anyone battling addiction, whether they’ve been struggling for a long time or are just starting to see the negative effects of substance use.
It’s helpful for those who’ve tried to quit by themselves but haven’t succeeded, and for those facing health problems, relationship issues, or legal troubles because of their addiction.
Even people who are just beginning to misuse substances can benefit from rehab to prevent more serious issues. Essentially, rehab offers a path to recovery and a chance to take back control for anyone affected by addiction.
How Rehab Works
Entering rehab begins with an assessment by a team of professionals, who develop a personalized treatment plan based on an individual’s unique needs.
This plan often involves a multidisciplinary approach, combining medically assisted treatment with psychological therapy and holistic methods.
For those with co-occurring mental health disorders, a dual diagnosis approach is applied to treat both addiction and mental health conditions simultaneously.
The Goal of Rehab
The primary objective of rehab is not just to stop substance use but to build a foundation for a life of sobriety.
This involves setting both short-term and long-term goals. Short-term goals focus on detoxification and overcoming withdrawal symptoms, while long-term goals aim at mental, emotional, and physical recovery.
Rehab also emphasizes relapse prevention and integrates life skills training to prepare individuals for life post-rehab.
Types of Rehab
Rehabilitation centers can be broadly categorized into two types of treatment: inpatient and outpatient.
Inpatient Treatment: Residential treatment requires patients to live at the rehabilitation facility, providing a structured environment and 24/7 support. It’s best for those with severe addictions or those who need a complete change of environment.
Outpatient Treatment: Outpatient rehab allows individuals to live at home or in a sober living home while attending treatment sessions at the facility. This type is suitable for those with mild to moderate addiction or who have significant work, school, or family commitments. Two common types of outpatient treatment are intensive outpatient programs and partial hospitalization programs.
What Is Rehab Like?
Rehabilitation experiences vary greatly depending on the individual’s treatment plan.
However, most programs offer a combination of the following types of therapies and recreational activities that are designed to set patients up with the tools they need for continued sobriety.
Individual Therapies
- Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT)
- Dialectical behavior therapy (DBT)
- Eye movement desensitization and reprocessing (EMDR)
- Medication-assisted treatment (MAT)
- Hypnotherapy
Group Therapies
- Recovery peer group therapy
- Family therapy
Recreational Activities
- Meditation practices
- Yoga sessions
- Physical exercise
The Length of Rehabilitation
The duration of a rehab stay varies depending on individual needs, but typically, programs range from 30 to 90 days.
Short-term programs might last about a month, offering a quick but intensive approach. Long-term programs usually extend up to three months, providing a more in-depth treatment experience. Some programs may even offer longer stays if needed.
The right length of rehab for an individual is determined based on the severity of their addiction, their personal history with substance abuse, and their specific recovery needs.
It’s important to remember that addiction recovery does not come to an end when a rehabilitation program is completed.
Life After Rehab
After completing rehab, the journey to lasting recovery continues with a focus on transition and aftercare.
This phase typically involves adhering to a well-structured aftercare plan, which includes ongoing therapy, participation in support groups, and strategies for relapse prevention.
Embracing lifestyle changes such as maintaining a healthy diet, regular exercise, and adequate rest is vital for physical and mental well-being. Additionally, support systems play a crucial role, where family, friends, and counseling provide ongoing encouragement and guidance.
Rehabilitation Starts at Lumina Recovery
We’ve covered the basics of rehab, highlighting its role in addiction recovery. However, the true effectiveness of an addiction treatment program lies in its individualized approach, tailored to each person’s unique needs and circumstances.
At Lumina Recovery, we understand that each journey to sobriety is personal and requires a compassionate, customized approach.
Our team of intake counselors at Lumina Recovery are here to provide you with a judgment-free environment where you can explore treatment options and ask questions about rehab.
Let us help you understand the path to recovery better and assist you in finding the program that will offer the most effective treatment for you or your loved one. Reach out to Lumina Recovery today.
