Drug Rehab FAQ » Addiction

What is “rehab”?

admin — Sat, 07 Mar 2009 08:00:29 +0000

Historically, “rehab” was a term used to describe treatment for alcohol and/or drug addiction. You often hear “drug rehab” or “alcohol rehab,” specifying the type of treatment the program offers. Many of today’s rehab programs address a broader spectrum of addictive behaviors involving sex, gambling and money issues, work, food, and relationships. In addition, rehab programs treat depression, anxiety, mood disorders, and other behavioral issues. Rehab typically implies inpatient treatment and may include detoxification from the addictive substance and/or compulsive behaviors.

When a person seeks recovery from addictive behaviors, a rehab program helps him look at the underlying issues that have caused the self-destructive behaviors. Rehab programs offer a variety of treatment modalities to meet individual needs, often including 12 Step-based treatment. An experienced rehab program will use a multidisciplinary team approach — including psychiatrists, psychologists, professional counselors, and other specialists — to focus on the personal needs of each patient. Rehab programs usually last from 25 to 35 days; however, shorter and longer programs can be found.

How do I know if I need rehab?

admin — Fri, 06 Mar 2009 08:00:24 +0000

Individuals need rehab if their lives have become unmanageable because of their addictive behaviors. Addiction is characterized by the inability to control the use of drugs, alcohol, sex, and/or gambling despite negative consequences. These consequences often include losing employment, family, friends, health, etc., as well as legal issues.

If an individual is concerned he is addicted, he should contact a professional counselor, psychologist, psychiatrist, or addiction specialist for an assessment. If an individual is unable to stop the addictive behaviors on an outpatient basis, or if it is not safe for him to stay in his current setting, a rehab facility may be appropriate. In addition, if it is not safe to detox in an outpatient setting, a drug rehab or inpatient facility may be necessary.

Does rehab treatment differ depending on the type of dependency?

admin — Fri, 27 Feb 2009 08:00:05 +0000

While there are many common threads among addictions, facilities offer different tracks in certain areas of care.

What is inpatient treatment?

admin — Tue, 04 Mar 2008 08:00:08 +0000

Inpatient or residential treatment provides individuals with support 24 hours a day. An individual who is no longer safe in his home setting because of his addiction should seek inpatient treatment. Often, removing the individual from his former surroundings allows him to focus on living a drug-free lifestyle. Inpatient treatment may take place in a hospital setting or treatment center located on a “campus.” Inpatient treatment usually begins with a full assessment and evaluation, including a psychiatric evaluation, psychological testing, and a psychosocial assessment focusing on developing a treatment plan of individual and group counselling. Many inpatient and drug rehab facilities are 12 Step-based and offer 12 Step meetings at the facility or in the community.