The choice to enter drug and alcohol rehabilitation is an important step toward sobriety. But all recovery programs are different. Though the end goal is always to help patients achieve a successful recovery from substance addiction, there are many means to an end. With so many choices for treatment, it can be tempting to choose a rehab center based on convenience.

It is of utmost importance to compare several rehab programs and select the one that will best fit the individual needs and long term recovery goals of the patient. Part of that decision is determining the treatment model and type of rehab facility the patient is most likely to succeed in.

Types of Drug Rehabilitation Facilities and Programs

Drug rehabilitation programs can be administered on an inpatient or outpatient basis. Usually, recovering substance abusers will choose between inpatient or outpatient care based on convenience and treatment needs. Both types of drug recovery programs may use a combination of:

  • One-on-one therapy
  • Group therapy
  • Support groups
  • Psychoeducation
  • Skills application classes

Inpatient Facilities

Inpatient recovery facilities are highly intensive drug recovery programs, requiring participants to live on campus. These 24-hour rehab centers encourage patients to stay at the rehab center during treatment, allowing substance abuse recovery to be the exclusive focus during that time. Inpatient programs may last several days, weeks, or months with longer treatment times producing better success rates on average.

Outpatient Facilities and Treatment Programs

Outpatient recovery programs are an option for recovering substance abusers who prefer to live at home during treatment. Participants must attend counseling and other program components at pre-scheduled times. Depending on the patient’s history of addiction and current recovery progress, this could require up to 8 hours a day or as little as a few hours a week. Because patients are allowed to leave the treatment facility, they may be required to take periodic drug tests to remain in the program.

Typically, inpatient drug and alcohol rehab is recommended for people with multiple addictions and/or a history of mental illness. It may also be necessary for substance abusers who have relapsed after participating in a prior drug rehab program.

Treatment Methods

There are many ways of addressing the physical and psychological components of substance abuse and addiction. Treatment programs often utilize assistance for withdrawal, as well as psychological support and encouragement from other recovering substance abusers. Some rehab facilities focus on a central treatment technique, whereas others employ a combination of many.

Some people thrive in a niche-specific atmosphere that caters more specifically to personal needs and beliefs. For example, some treatment facilities are gender-based, making it easier for patients to complete treatment without distraction from the opposite sex. Others may employ treatments founded on personal beliefs, such as spiritually-based drug rehab or holistic treatment centers.

Tips for Choosing a Substance Abuse Rehab

Rehab plays an integral role in the long term successful of recovering drug and alcohol abusers. It is important to select the treatment program that will best fit the needs of you or your loved one. Once you have identified the addiction treatment programs in your area, do some personal research. Contact the facility to ask for a tour, talk with other patients, and don’t be afraid to ask questions. Open communication is the most effective way of ensuring you find the rehab best for you.