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Page 1 of 3 Answers to frequently asked questions about drug rehab centers and alcoholism treatment programs.
What goes on in "drug rehab"?
- Whether we call it "drug rehab" or rehabilitation, both mean the same:
- An initial psychosocial evaluation.
- Detoxification or “detox.”
- Classes to learn about addiction and alcoholism and associated issues.
- Obtaining and maintaining complete abstinence from mood and mind altering substances.
- Individual therapy sessions.
- Family therapy or a family program.
- Group Therapy.
- 12 step meetings of Alcoholics Anonymous or Narcotics Anonymous.
Why go to "drug or alcohol rehab"?
Removal of denial is a major hurdle for every person to overcome. In most cases, the drug addict or alcoholic tend to minimize their use and the consequences associated with it. They tend to block out or deny the negative impact drug or alcohol abuse is having on themselves and their family. While in drug or alcohol rehab, thru the use of various clinical techniques, patients are assisted in "breaking" thru their denial and working towards accepting and taking responsibility for their actions.
The initial goal to achieve while in rehab is abstinence. As long as drug or alcohol remain in the blood stream, a person's thought process remains somewhat distorted. This process of gradual clearing may take days or even weeks as a person progresses through their detoxification process or "detox". As a person's system clears, so does their thought process. In cases, where a person's thought process remains "clouded", a psychiatric evaluation may be in order.
One aspect of addiction and alcoholism shared by everyone is the deterioration of personal relationships. People begin to isolate, as loneliness and depression set in. The rehab experience places addicts and alcoholics in an environment focused on the sharing of similar experiences. It is widely accepted that the bond that takes place between recovering people is unmatched. This process helps in creating strong interpersonal relationships. In many cases, these relationships will serve to form the beginning of a person's new support system.
Some people think rehab is a form of brainwashing. While it is not, professionals nationwide tend to agree that most of the brains addicts and alcoholics bring into rehab with them, could use a good washing. Many of the belief systems addicts or alcoholics depend upon have created exactly what they have today. Through educational classes, lectures and reviewing recovery literature, you will begin to replace old ideas with new ones, designed towards achieving and maintaining a long term recovery. Don't worry; you will still be able to have fun!!
What is addiction treatment about?
Treatment can take many different forms, vary in length of time and take place in a variety of settings. For many, treatment is a long term process that involves multiple attempts to achieve recovery. No single drug or alcoholism treatment approach is appropriate for everyone, but most incorporate the following levels of care:
Detoxification and Medical Stabilization
This focus of this component is to stabilize the patient medically and institute a protocol which allows the body to rid itself from all addictive substances, safely and comfortably. Secondly, it prepares the person for the next level of care necessary to achieve long term recovery.
Rehabilitation or Residential Care
The purpose of this level of care is for a person to learn the personal skills necessary to change behavior. They will confront belief systems, address issues within the family and resolve any feelings and issues impeding their recovery.
Outpatient Care
This level of care allows a person to put into practice that which they have learned in residential treatment, while continuing to address the issues that present themselves on a daily basis. These issues or challenges are addressed in a clinical setting, with a licensed addiction or mental health therapist.
Continuing Care or Aftercare
This level of care is designed to maintain a person's long term recovery. Issues such as relapse prevention, attendance at 12 step support groups, development of daily living skills and healthy support systems are of paramount importance.
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