Rehab can be an intimidating process, especially if you’ve never gone through it before. If you are looking to overcome addiction, it’s important to know what to expect from rehab, from how long it will take to how much it will cost to what changes you can expect afterwards in your life and your health. This guide answers all those questions and more, so that you know what to expect when you go to rehab.
Are you sure you want to do this?
Before you decide whether or not rehab is right for you, there are some important factors you should consider. Ask yourself why do I need rehab and if it’s an issue that might be resolved on my own or with help from a friend or family member? It’s easy to convince yourself that treatment will solve your problems—but it won’t. Recovery from addiction takes time and effort. The most important step in getting clean is admitting you have a problem and want help. Get professional support: No matter what form of treatment you decide on, getting professional support is essential in order to make sure your recovery is successful.
What happens during treatment?
There are many different kinds of treatment programs and most people have no idea what they will experience during their time in treatment. When going into rehab, expect a period of withdrawal and detoxification. This means you will be getting rid of any drug or alcohol left in your system. This period can last for about one week, but could be longer depending on how much you used. During these first few days, withdrawal symptoms may hit you hard so it’s important that you get rest and eat healthy foods to help ease these symptoms. Once detox is complete, your treatment process begins; from there on out there is an array of methods used by various rehabs around the country to treat addiction such as therapy sessions, group meetings, and even art therapy.
Should I go for a short period or long term?
If you’re considering going for drug or alcohol rehabilitation, chances are your decision-making skills are currently impaired. In other words, it’s not easy to figure out which program will work best for you. The time you spend in rehab can vary greatly depending on what your addiction and circumstances call for. Typically, patients have between three and six months in which they stay at a treatment facility while receiving care from a team of professionals and attending group counseling sessions with other recovering addicts. However, if your addiction is severe enough that a short term stay would still put you at risk of relapse, then an extended rehabilitation is probably more appropriate.
How does an inpatient rehab center treat my drug addiction?
Inpatient rehab centers have a medically-supervised detox period that usually lasts about a week, depending on how your drug use has affected your body. Detox consists of physical therapy, behavioral therapy and nutritional counseling. Medications are available to help manage many of your withdrawal symptoms, like nausea and insomnia. If you’re comfortable with it, family members or friends can visit you at inpatient rehab during your detox phase. Friends and family may also participate in group sessions with you during rehabilitation if they choose. It’s best for everyone involved—you included—if those around you are supportive of your decision to seek treatment for drug addiction.