Attending a clinical drug rehab program is the only way for addicts to achieve lasting sobriety. There are several drug rehab programs available today, and it is crucial that addicts choose treatment plans which are suited to their schedules, lifestyles, and particular drug problems. Unfortunately, most people still don't understand what services are offered at rehabilitation clinics. It is important for communities to raise their awareness of addiction treatment to help those in need. Here are some of the most effective programs and therapies for drug rehab.
When addicts seek treatment for the first time, they typically undergo residential inpatient treatment. Inpatient programs begin with detoxification - a painful but necessary first step which relieves people of their immediate physical dependencies on drugs. Patients then live at their treatment facilities for thirty to ninety days, during which they receive at least fifty hours of counseling and other therapies per week.
Overall, inpatient programs are designed to help addicts make rapid but long-lasting lifestyle changes. People who struggle with drugs and alcohol must change almost every aspect of their lives in order to stay sober in the long run. Rehab lasts only a few months, but staying clean is a life-long effort.
Day and Night Programs for Smooth Transitions
Despite the effectiveness of inpatient treatment, many addicts find it difficult to immediately transition back into the outside world. To avoid relapse during the transition, some patients will undergo treatments known as partial hospitalization or "day and night" programs. They still receive several hours of intensive therapies during the daytime, but they are free to return to their homes at night. Under the supervision of clinic staff, they practice the clean lifestyles the will lead once they fully reintegrate into society.
Outpatient Rehab for Relapse
Relapse is almost inevitable for most drug addicts. Fortunately, drug rehab programs are available which address the specific concerns and circumstances of people who temporarily return to drugs. Outpatient treatment allows relapsed addicts to retain their independence as they attend just a few hours of clinical therapy per day. They can then use the rest of their time to tend to their careers, family lives, and other personal matters. Still, people who suffer prolonged relapses must often repeat detox and inpatient treatment.
Evidence-Based Therapies Produce Lasting Results
There are a variety of treatments used at most rehab clinics, but the most effective among them are called evidence-based therapies. These methods have been rigorously tested over the last several decades and are approved by private and public agencies for use across the United States. They primarily include individual counseling, peer group discussions, and family-based therapy.
Bridging the Gap with Reality Therapy
One of the most pressing difficulties faced by addition specialists is helping rehab patients apply their clinical treatments to real-life situations. To accomplish this goal, most drug rehab centers use reality therapy. They mimic lifelike environments by requiring their inpatients to clean, shop, cook, and schedule appointments for themselves - just as they would in the outside world. By maintaining close-to-normal lives as they receive treatment, addicts can more easily adopt permanent lifestyle changes.