Drug rehabilitation, or drug rehab, is designed to help individuals stop using addictive substances and manage substance use disorders. Medically, these are defined as conditions causing significant impairment due to a harmful pattern of substance use. The primary purpose of drug rehab is to achieve and maintain sobriety, improving the individual’s quality of life.

Drug rehab is necessary due to the high rates of substance abuse. According to the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA), in 2019, 20.4 million Americans aged 12 or older had a substance use disorder.

Drug rehab is essential for treating alcohol and opioid use disorders, which can lead to severe health issues and fatalities. Programs aim to detoxify the body and prevent relapse, addressing a public health issue that affects millions worldwide.

Drug rehabilitation serves as a critical lifeline, offering a combination of medical, psychological, and social support to break the cycle of addiction and pave the way for long-term recovery.

How Does Drug Rehabilitation Work?

Drug rehabilitation works through a carefully structured, multi-step process that begins with an in-depth assessment to identify an individual’s unique needs. This assessment covers medical history, mental health, and the specific patterns of substance abuse, setting the stage for a personalized treatment plan. Accurate assessment is pivotal; SAMHSA reports that in 2015, only about 11% of Americans needing substance use treatment received it.

Following assessment, detoxification is the next crucial phase. This is where addictive substances are purged from the body, allowing for effective psychological treatment. Detox manages severe withdrawal symptoms and, in some cases, prevents life-threatening complications.

Then, various therapies like Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) are introduced, targeting the behavioral patterns contributing to substance abuse. Evidence shows that CBT is effective, with about 60% of participants reducing substance use significantly. Other therapeutic methods like Dialectical Behavioral Therapy or Motivational Interviewing may also be employed depending on individual needs.

Specialized treatments like dual diagnosis therapies address co-occurring mental health issues. Some programs even offer academic counseling for teenagers or holistic therapies like mindfulness and art therapy. Medication management is another facet, especially useful in mitigating withdrawal symptoms and preventing relapse. Studies have shown medications like methadone and buprenorphine can significantly reduce relapse rates for opioid addictions.

Support from peers and family is often integrated into the treatment, augmenting its efficacy. Research indicates that peer support can reduce post-treatment substance use by as much as 20%. An aftercare plan with regular follow-ups helps sustain the gains made during rehab and, according to SAMHSA, boosts the likelihood of remaining sober by 10% one-year post-treatment.

What Are the Types of Drug Rehab?

Several evidence-based drug rehabilitation programs have effectively addressed substance use disorders. These programs are backed by research from authoritative sources such as the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA), the National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA), and drug and alcohol authorities. The various drug rehab programs include inpatient (residential) treatment, outpatient treatment, medication-assisted treatment (MAT), dual diagnosis treatment, 12-step programs and support groups, and holistic and alternative therapies.

Inpatient (Residential) Treatment:

Inpatient treatment involves residing within a controlled environment where individuals receive comprehensive care and support. According to SAMHSA, in 2019, approximately 26.4% of all substance abuse treatment admissions in the United States were for residential programs. Inpatient treatment is widely utilized for individuals seeking intensive care and support during their recovery journey.

Outpatient Treatment:

Outpatient treatment allows individuals to attend therapy sessions while living at home or in a supportive environment. SAMHSA reports that around 35.5% of all substance abuse treatment admissions 2019 were for outpatient programs. Outpatient programs’s popularity underscores their flexibility in treatment options, enabling individuals to balance recovery with daily responsibilities.

Medication-Assisted Treatment (MAT):

MAT involves using FDA-approved medications in combination with counseling and therapy to treat substance use disorders. NIDA highlights that MAT has been shown to improve treatment outcomes and reduce overdose deaths related to opioids. Buprenorphine, methadone, and naltrexone are commonly used medications for opioid use disorder. NIDA recognizes MAT’s effectiveness as a crucial aspect of comprehensive addiction treatment.

Dual Diagnosis Treatment:

Dual diagnosis treatment addresses both substance use disorders and co-occurring mental health disorders. The National Survey on Drug Use and Health (NSDUH) estimates that approximately 9.5 million adults in the U.S. had a co-occurring mental illness and substance use disorder in 2019. Integrated treatment approaches that simultaneously address these conditions have shown improved outcomes compared to treating each disorder separately. Addressing both aspects is crucial for achieving effective and lasting recovery.

12-Step Programs and Support Groups:

12-step programs like Alcoholics Anonymous (AA) and Narcotics Anonymous (NA) provide a supportive community and structured approach to recovery. NIDA recognizes that mutual support groups can play a vital role in maintaining abstinence and sustaining recovery. These programs emphasize peer support, accountability, and spirituality as central components of the recovery process, making them valuable resources for individuals seeking a comprehensive approach to recovery.

Holistic and Alternative Therapies:

Holistic treatment programs incorporate alternative therapies such as yoga, mindfulness meditation, art therapy, and acupuncture. These approaches aim to address addiction’s physical, emotional, and spiritual aspects. The Journal of Substance Abuse Treatment notes that holistic therapies can complement traditional treatments and contribute to overall well-being during recovery. A holistic approach significantly promotes a comprehensive sense of well-being during recovery.

What Are the Different Levels of Care Provided by Drug Rehab?

The levels of rehabilitation depend on the severity of the substance use disorder and the individual’s specific needs. These levels range from early intervention services to medically-managed intensive inpatient services. Specifically, the primary levels of rehab are listed below:

• Level 0.5 – Early Intervention Services
• Level 1 – Outpatient Services
• Level 2 – Intensive Outpatient/Partial Hospitalization Services
• Level 3 – Residential/Inpatient Services
• Level 4 – Medically Managed Intensive Inpatient Services

There are various rehabilitation facilities to consider, such as acute care rehab, subacute care rehab, and long-term acute care rehab. Each facility may offer a range of these levels of care.

There are also three main types of therapies used across these levels: occupational therapy, physical therapy, and speech therapy. Although these therapies serve unique purposes, they all share the ultimate goal of helping the patient return to a healthy and active lifestyle.

Based on a comprehensive assessment, treatment professionals use these levels to place patients in the most appropriate setting for their recovery. Throughout an individual’s treatment journey, they may move between different levels of care as their needs change. This flexibility ensures that the treatment remains responsive to the complexities of addiction, thereby increasing the chances of a successful recovery.

How Long Do Rehab Programs Last?

The duration of rehab programs can vary depending on the type of treatment and the individual’s specific needs. There are two main types of rehab programs: Inpatient treatment and outpatient treatment.

How Long Does Inpatient Treatment Last?

Inpatient treatment involves admitting an individual to a medical or clinical facility, where they receive continuous care from medical professionals. During inpatient treatment, patients stay on-site and receive comprehensive care, including medical assessments, therapies, and group sessions. Inpatient treatment is particularly suitable for detoxification or residential care. The duration of inpatient treatment can vary widely, ranging from a few days to several weeks, even up to a month. The length of stay is determined by the patient’s medical requirements and progress. The decision to choose inpatient care should be guided by medical professionals who assess the patient’s medical necessity.

How Long Does Outpatient Treatment Last?

Outpatient treatment allows individuals to live at home or in a supportive environment while attending treatment sessions. Patients visit the treatment center on specific days, usually multiple times a week, for sessions that last a few hours each. Outpatient treatment includes group therapy, assessments, and individual therapies. This approach suits individuals who can manage their commitments while receiving treatment. The duration of time spent in outpatient treatment varies and is typically determined collaboratively by the patient, therapist, or medical professional.

How to Choose the Right Time to Leave Treatment?

As per our Addiction Medicine Specialist, Dr Ryan Peterson, contrary to the misconception of fixed time frames for completing treatment, such as 30, 60, or 90 days, the decision to conclude rehab should rely on the individual’s progress, functional improvement, and readiness to reintegrate into their daily life.

The timing of discharge, whether from inpatient or outpatient treatment, should be discussed with the medical team to ensure a successful transition and ongoing recovery. Each person’s journey is unique, and the decision to leave treatment should be determined based on the individual’s well-being and overall progress.

What is the Importance of Drug Rehabilitation?

Drug rehabilitation is pivotal in addressing the complex challenges of substance abuse and addiction. Backed by extensive clinical research and evidence-based practices, drug rehabilitation programs offer a range of benefits that contribute to the well-being and recovery of individuals struggling with substance use disorders.

• Breaking the Cycle of Addiction: Drug rehabilitation allows individuals to break free from the cycle of addiction. Research indicates that structured treatment programs significantly improve an individual’s chances of overcoming addiction and maintaining abstinence over the long term. A study published in the “Journal of Substance Abuse Treatment” found that individuals who completed rehabilitation programs had higher rates of sustained abstinence compared to those who did not engage in treatment.
• Medical and Psychological Support: Comprehensive drug rehabilitation programs offer medical and psychological support tailored to the individual’s needs. This approach is crucial, as substance abuse often takes a toll on both physical health and mental well-being. Research published in the “Journal of Consulting and Clinical Psychology” highlights the effectiveness of integrating medical care and psychological therapies in rehab settings, leading to improved recovery outcomes.
• Addressing Underlying Issues: Substance abuse is often linked to psychological, emotional, or traumatic issues. Effective drug rehabilitation programs incorporate cognitive-behavioral and trauma-focused therapy to address these root causes. A study published in the “Journal of Substance Abuse Treatment” demonstrated the positive impact of integrated therapies on reducing relapse rates and promoting sustained recovery.
• Reducing Public Health Burden: Substance abuse and addiction substantially burden public health systems, communities, and economies. Research from the National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA) highlights that for every dollar invested in drug rehabilitation, society saves up to $12 in healthcare, criminal justice, and productivity-related costs.
• Enhancing Family and Social Relationships: Drug rehabilitation programs often include family and social therapy components to repair relationships strained by addiction. Evidence suggests that family involvement in treatment can lead to better outcomes. A study published in the “Journal of Marital and Family Therapy” demonstrated that family therapy interventions improved family functioning and reduced adolescent substance use.
• Preventing Relapse: Achieving and maintaining long-term recovery requires effective relapse prevention strategies. Research from the “Journal of Substance Abuse Treatment” underscores the significance of relapse prevention programs within rehabilitation, as they equip individuals with coping skills, strategies, and tools to navigate triggers and high-risk situations.

How to Choose a Drug Rehabilitation Program?

When selecting the right drug rehabilitation program for effective treatment, several key considerations must be remembered. We asked Dr. Ryan Peterson on “How to Find the Best Drug Rehab” and below is his answer:

Over my years of experience in addiction medicine, I’ve found that making an informed choice can significantly impact an individual’s journey toward recovery. Let’s dive into some crucial factors that can guide your decision-making process for finding the best drug rehab:

Understanding Addiction as a Chronic Disease:
One of the fundamental aspects to grasp is that addiction is akin to a chronic disease, not a quick fix. This perspective is vital because it shifts the focus from short-term solutions to a more comprehensive and sustained approach. Like diabetes, addiction demands ongoing care, education, and management. Prioritizing programs that align with this philosophy can significantly enhance the likelihood of successful and lasting recovery.

Embracing Harm Reduction Principles:
Seek out rehabilitation programs that embrace harm reduction principles. This approach centers around patient-centered care without judgment. Such programs recognize that individuals may be at different stages of readiness for change and tailor their treatment accordingly. By offering resources and support that meet individuals where they are, these programs contribute to a more holistic and effective recovery journey.

Exploring Medication-Assisted Treatment (MAT):
Considering programs that support medication-assisted treatment (MAT) is crucial. MAT involves combining medications with counseling and behavioral therapies to provide a comprehensive approach to addiction treatment. This approach has demonstrated efficacy in aiding recovery and preventing relapse, particularly for individuals grappling with opioid or alcohol use disorders.

Informed Decision-Making:
Making an informed decision about a rehabilitation program involves asking the right questions. Inquire about the program’s approach to treating addiction as a chronic disease. Understand their stance on harm reduction and whether they offer MAT as part of their treatment options. An open dialogue with treatment providers can provide insights into their treatment philosophy and methods, helping you align your goals with their offerings.

Consideration of Location:
While the geographical location of a rehab center is important, it’s equally vital to prioritize the program’s quality over its proximity. Traveling for rehabilitation might be viable if it means accessing a program that aligns with your needs and values. Effective treatment can significantly impact your recovery journey, making the distance to the program a secondary consideration.

How Much Does Rehab Cost?

Drug rehab costs vary based on factors like program type, duration, services, and location. The table below summarizes average cost estimates:

Note: These are average estimates; actual costs may differ.

Don’t let cost deter you from seeking treatment. Investing in rehab is a step toward a healthier, addiction-free future. Always choose a program that aligns with your needs for the best chance at long-term recovery. Our admission specialists and case managers are available 24/7 to help you out. Just complete the form or call us at (323) 307-7997.

How to Pay for Drug Rehabilitation?

Paying for drug rehabilitation can be a financial hurdle, but there are targeted methods to make it manageable. Here’s a focus on some of the most accessible ways:

Insurance: Health insurance is the most common way to offset the cost of rehab. Coverage can vary widely depending on your plan, but the Affordable Care Act mandates that most health plans must include services for substance use disorders. It’s crucial to consult with your insurance provider to understand what portion of the treatment they will cover, as out-of-pocket costs can still be significant.

Public Funding: Government-funded programs can also assist in covering the cost of rehab. Medicaid often provides coverage for substance abuse services, though the extent of coverage can vary from state to state. It’s essential to check local resources to see if you qualify for this type of aid.

Sliding-Scale Fees: Many rehab centers offer sliding-scale fees based on your income. This system adjusts the cost of treatment based on your ability to pay, making rehab more affordable for those with limited financial resources.

Employer Assistance: Some companies offer Employee Assistance Programs (EAPs), including short-term substance abuse treatment services. If your employer offers an EAP, this can be an excellent way to receive treatment at a reduced cost or even for free. Always consult your Human Resources department for specific details.

Out-of-Pocket: For those without insurance or other means of financial aid, paying for rehab out-of-pocket is an option. Some facilities offer discounts for payments made upfront or provide the option of installment payments.