October 24, 2022

What Is Drug Rehab Like?

What is drug rehab like? The uncertainty of what happens in rehab can be intimidating. Learning about what to expect in rehab will calm many of your worries.

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Susana Spiegel

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RECOVERY WRITER & ADVOCATE

Susana is a dedicated mental health writer and advocate with over 8 years of experience in the field. She is passionate about sharing accurate and helpful information about mental health, addiction, and recovery. Susana holds a Bachelor’s degree in Christian Studies from Grand Canyon University and has over 7 years of professional experience working in the addiction recovery field. Her commitment to promoting mental health awareness and providing support to those in need is at the core of her work.

What is drug rehab like ? Well, it takes bravery and courage to be able to ask for help regarding drug addictions. However, the uncertainty of what happens in rehab can be pretty intimidating. Learning about what to expect in rehab can calm many of your worries.

Searching for help with drug and/or alcohol addiction? Call us now at (800) 643-2108.

What To Expect When You Enter Rehab

The recovery process begins when you decide to go into a rehab program. You will be given an assessment and answer in-depth questions about your addiction and health. There will be an interview about your addiction history and drug use duration.

You will also undergo a physical examination and psychological tests to potentially detect co-occurring disorder issues. Once all the required information is gathered, you will be taken to a room where you can settle in and begin treatment.

Depending on what drug you’ve been misusing, the withdrawal process will begin, and this can be the most challenging part of recovery. You may be prescribed medication to ease the pain and help you stay comfortable.

You will also receive behavioral therapy, mental health treatment, and nutritional therapy to ensure a smooth and long-lasting recovery.

The Different Types Of Rehab Programs

When you ask the question: what is drug rehab like, the answer is complex. The case of each suffering from a substance abuse disorder is different, meaning that each individual will require a unique treatment plan, or level of care. Finding a treatment center that can support your needs and requirements and your special circumstances is very important.

In most centers, you can expect to find medical professionals, mental health professionals, and caretakers that will ensure your health. Generalized options for rehab facilities include;

Long-Term Residential Treatment

Residential treatment programs are beneficial for the beginning stages of recovery, oftentimes after detox.

A residential program will allow medical staff and caretakers to provide you with 24-hour care. You will be provided all necessary mental and physical healthcare and can socialize with your fellow in-patients.

You will be undergoing individual and group therapy with educational programs to keep you occupied and will be provided nutritious and healthy food that will aid their recovery.

Short-Term Residential Treatment

This treatment plan is often the choice of individuals suffering from alcohol addiction. These programs last three to six weeks, providing the individual with the necessary medical treatment, therapy, and support.

Once the treatment is concluded, you are often recommended to start outpatient treatment services and remain a part of support groups to ensure that you stick to the skills taught to prevent relapse.

Outpatient Treatment Programs

These treatment centers are ideal for supporting you if you need to live at home but require continued treatment.

It allows you to receive the help you require while maintaining your school, job, or family life. Outpatient programs can include therapy sessions, group sessions, and also educational courses.

The medical staff checks the individual and looks for any signs of relapse. The services are similar to an in-patient rehab center, but the you are not required to live there.

How Rehab Works – What Happens During A Typical Day

In residential programs, there are typically structured routines that you are supposed to follow. The concept behind these routines is that you can practice consistency and know what to expect throughout the day. A routine makes it easier for you to make decisions and helps you in the long run. It’s essential to keep a routine in recovery.

You will be provided with a proper schedule with the time and date mentioned; however, an example of a routine in rehab is as follows: 

  • Mornings

The staff will wake you up early and at the same time each morning, such as at 7 am. You will be given time to take care of yourself and clean up, followed by breakfast and any medication that you are prescribed. 

Afterward, you may start the morning with a group to check in for the day. You might also take part in physical training. This will include meditation, exercise, or maybe a walk around the treatment center. 

At some point, you may have free time where you can choose to journal, practice your skills, paint, or read.

  • Afternoons

The afternoon consists of lunch, after which an individual therapy session is held. Individual therapy helps address personal issues. This will enable you to control your emotions more and help with healing from the past. 

You will also be offered to attend educational courses on topics such as mental health self-care or nutrition’s importance in addiction recovery.

  • Evenings

Dinner will be held, after which you will attend another group session. Along with your peers, you will reflect on the day’s progress; you will tune in with your body to learn how you feel and share any experience.

After the session, you will have to prepare for bed. Setting a healthy bedtime is essential, and most treatment centers have “lights out” time to encourage you to get good sleep.

What Happens After Rehab – Relapse Prevention And Support

What is drug rehab like when it’s finished? What happens? Well, concluding a rehab program is an amazing achievement but maintaining sobriety and recovering is a lifelong process. Once you step back into regular routines and integrate into society, you will have to face many triggers and temptations. 

Aftercare aids you in overcoming the triggers and practically implementing the skills you have learned during treatment. Aftercare services are provided by the treatment center where you received your rehab treatment. 

These programs allow you to carry on your therapy sessions on a monthly or bi-monthly schedule and receive the support you require to stay on the right path.

You are taught many skills to prevent relapse during treatment, but you are reminded of those techniques and are aided in practicing these skills in real life. 

You also maintain the support you receive from your peers and groups and can stay consistent when given a growth environment.

The role of aftercare is imperative to long-term success.

How To Choose The Right Rehab Facility For You

Choosing a rehab for yourself requires an honest assessment of your needs as an individual. From costs to treatment availability to how the staff treats patients, every single aspect can play a huge role in your recovery.

Another factor to consider is the amenities and location of the rehab. Familial and friend support is essential during this period, and that’s why finding a center near you will make it easier for them to visit and for you to stay motivated.

However, if you’re in an area with too much temptation, it is worth considering an out-of-state rehab. An out-of-state rehab will help you fully remove yourself from the environment, and it’s triggers and temptations. 

Cornerstone Healing Center is a drug and alcohol rehab in Scottsdale, AZ. We have efficient and highly professional teams of medical professionals and clinicians. 

Cornerstone Scottsdale works tirelessly to ensure that you enjoy an empathetic and accepting environment. We ensure you are equipped with the tools and skills to help set a clear path for long-term recovery. 

Publish Date: 10/24/2022

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