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Drug Rehab
Choosing
A Drug Rehab Program - Six Critical Questions To Ask First
By Muriel Pausey
There is a wide range of methods to dealing with substance abuse issues. The following pointers will explain some of these methods and show what to look for when choosing a drug rehab center.
What types of treatment are available?
The most famous approach for drug rehab is the 12-step program. It was pioneered by Alcoholic Anonymous, and was later transplanted to other addictions like heroin or cocaine. The twelve steps involve recognizing that one has a problem, taking steps to correct it, and drawing support from a group of people who are going through similar problems.
Other approaches to drug rehab are behavior modification, or bio-physical treatment. Bio-physical practitioners argue that the fat in our bodies stores toxins for up to seven years. To get rid of them, patients take extended saunas that help cleanse the body. Behavior modification teaches patients how to deal with stress-situations that could cause a relapse, and patients are taught new behaviors to keep them away from alcohol and drugs. Finally, there are several religious drug rehab programs where faith is the basis of the program.
When choosing a drug rehab center, ask what type of approaches they offer, and what their success rate is.
Where will the patient reside during the treatment?
In-patients live at the drug rehab center for the duration of the treatment. While at the center, patients usually have 24-hour support and monitoring.
Out-patients, on the other hand, don’t live at the drug rehab center, but come in for treatment during the day. Some patients will be at the center 6 days a week, 8 hours a day, while others might go for counseling once a week. The intensity of treatment for outpatients varies a great deal. A good drug rehab center has specialized staff who will recommend what is most appropriate in each case.
What type of support will the patient receive during detox?
Drug rehab programs usually involve a detox period, during which the body must get used to living without drugs. This period can be quite tough and can involve physical discomfort. Specialized doctors and medical staff can ease the pain of the detox period and accurately monitor the stages of a patient’s progress.
What options does the drug rehab program offer for post-treatment?
Drug rehab is a life-long process, and relapses can occur. When selecting a drug rehab center, it is important to know what type of support services it offers after a patient finishes the core treatment. Some centers offer a ‘peace of mind’ clause, which means that if a patient has a relapse in the first six months after treatment, he or she can return to the drug rehab center paying only room and board and not full fees.
What support services are offered to the patient’s family?
Families often suffer significant emotional stress when they live with someone with a substance abuse problem. They need to learn how to deal with their affected family members and might also need counseling for themselves. Good drug rehab programs include family support. However, the extent to which the family is involved can vary greatly, from just a couple of lectures to full therapy.
What are the costs involved?
Costs can vary greatly. One of the first things to ask is whether the drug rehab center works with insurance companies. It is important to fully understand what the drug rehab program includes and what it doesn’t. For example, does it include a ‘peace of mind’ clause? Is family therapy included? If the patient is going to live at the center, and if so, are all expenses covered in the fees?
Muriel Pausey is an editor for the Drug Rehab Resource Directory. She has over 35 years experience in drug/alcohol rehab counseling and outpatient rehab services.
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