Options for Residential Drug Rehab

If you’ve realized that an addiction to drugs or alcohol is wreaking havoc in your life – or if you are a family member or friend exploring treatment options for someone else before a drug intervention – there are a number of different types of programs available to you. In addition to residential rehab, which will be the focus of this article, other possibilities might be inpatient treatment, executive rehab, partial hospitalization, intensive outpatient treatment, or regular outpatient treatment.

How long will I have to be at a residential rehab?

Choosing to go to a residential rehab will require you to relocate to the facility – whether it be in your town or out of state – for a period that usually ranges between one and three months.  Depending on the substance and your life situation, some residential programs can be as long as two years.

What happens at residential rehab?

Individual programs have different philosophies and amenities, and each person’s recovery needs will be different. There are a few general trends that you will find at this type of rehab, but remember, not all facilities provide all of the services described below.

• Detox – Unless you’ve already gone through withdrawal on your own or at a medical facility, the personnel at the rehab will help make the detoxification process as comfortable as possible.
• Group therapy – Becoming part of a community of others who have been through a similar experience can be freeing to addicts who feel alone in their suffering. The group members address common struggles associated with staying sober and encourage other members throughout the process.
• Individual therapy – In these sessions, individuals will be able to work one-on-one with a psychologist or counselor to resolve personal issues, relationship conflicts, and/or past traumatic experiences that may have contributed to the addiction. Personal responsibility and accountability for remaining sober are emphasized.
• Skills training – Some programs help participants earn a GED, while others teach job skills.
• Legal assistance – Prolonged use of illegal substances can often be associated with other legal problems from crimes committed to acquire the substance to those committed while intoxicated. Some programs offer assistance for dealing with related matters.