Q: What is “rehab”?
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.