What To Expect in Rehab

After a person struggling with substance abuse realizes that they need to seek professional treatment, their minds often race with endless questions and concerns. Entering a rehab center can be intimidating, especially for those who have never received treatment in a clinical setting before. A lot of the concern surrounding rehab is simply a fear of the unknown.

While rehab centers can vary from one center to another, they all want to provide effective rehab treatment to patients. Transformations can assist, whether you need help in determining if rehab is needed or by providing continuing care throughout your journey to recovery.

When Rehab Should Be Considered

Before diving into the specifics of a rehab treatment center, you should determine whether rehab is right for you. A plethora of different arrangements can treat all levels of addiction, and not all of them require long-term inpatient treatment.

It can be tough to recognize and admit that you need help, but rehab can often provide the tools you need. Although it’s tempting to go “cold turkey,” this is rarely effective. Likewise, withdrawal from alcohol and other substances can be dangerous. Because of this, an inpatient rehab center is a good choice to ensure your safety and overall wellbeing. If you want to learn more about whether rehab is right for you, Transformations can assist with answering any questions you may have.

Types of Rehabs for Substance Abuse Disorders

The most significant determining factor of what to expect in rehab lies in the type of rehab center you will attend. While it can be difficult to decide which type of rehab you need, a doctor can typically recommend the best option for your circumstances.

For example, if you need to go through detox, you will likely need overnight care. If you have previously detoxed and just need some extra help getting through a tough time, you might not need to live in a facility. Again, a doctor must help determine which level of care is needed based on the severity of your addiction and the type of substance you are struggling with.

Long-Term Rehab Treatment – Long-term rehab centers provide around-the-clock care to patients living within the rehab facility. These treatments are intensive, long-term programs that take anywhere from six months to a year to complete. They are best for those with severe addictions who require serious rehabilitation to get their lives back on track.

These facilities provide everything from detox care to educational programs, group counseling, and even proper nutrition. Many patients find it helpful to be surrounded by other residents who are struggling with the same problems and also working to get their lives back on track.

Short-Term Rehab Treatment – Short-term rehab centers operate similarly to long-term rehab treatment facilities. However, patients stay for a much shorter timeframe at short-term rehab treatment centers. Patients in these programs are typically admitted and remain in the facility for anywhere from three to six weeks. Once they complete the program, they immediately transfer to outpatient talk therapy sessions and group therapy or support groups. This allows them to return home more quickly, but the regular therapy sessions aim to reduce the risk of relapse.

Outpatient Treatments – Outpatient treatment programs differ from other types because they do not require the patient to be admitted to the facility. While other programs require residents to live at the rehab center for weeks and months, patients of outpatient treatment programs live at home. They will visit the treatment center several times a week and will complete programs that are similar to those that residential rehabs offer.

Intake Interview and Check-In

An intake interview or check-in is an appointment that occurs before entering the rehab facility. During this initial interview, staff members will aim to understand your specific circumstances. Some of the questions cover your basic information, such as your age and medical history, along with more complex questions like criminal history, drugs of choice, substance abuse habits, and any trauma that may have been experienced. All of these factors are crucial in developing a solid treatment plan in rehab.

The Detox Process

Your experience will vary based on which type of facility you are attending. Despite this, if you need to detox, this process will consume your first days in rehab. The process is not pleasant, but it is crucial to get started on the path to recovery. Depending on the type of substance you are detoxing from, you may require medical monitoring or intervention to ensure your safety. This is the safest option in many cases, as withdrawal from alcohol or certain drugs can increase your risk of serious complications.

Nurses will monitor you throughout the day and provide medications for withdrawal symptoms as prescribed by a doctor. Likewise, they will also work to determine if any existing mental health disorders need to be treated. This is crucial as many people who suffer from untreated mental health disorders tend to self-medicate with other substances. This aids in treating the underlying cause of your addiction and can help provide better success throughout your journey.

A Typical Day in Rehab

You will be served lunch and will likely have some downtime to relax. From there, you may take nutrition, fitness, or life skills classes. You might also attend support group or family therapy sessions. These classes and therapy sessions will vary depending on your unique circumstances. Many of these classes also discuss mental health disorders and self-medicating with substances to help you understand your addiction. Additionally, you may have medical evaluations done to monitor your overall health.

After dinner, you can spend time alone to reflect on the information you have learned throughout the day. In many cases, you are also encouraged to keep a journal to help you remember information or to explore your feelings before your next therapy session.

If you want to learn more about therapy sessions and how they can benefit your recovery, reach out to Transformations for more information. We are happy to assist by answering your questions.

Planning for Aftercare

A large portion of your stay in rehab focuses on planning for aftercare. A rehab center is only a temporary solution that is intended to equip you with the tools and knowledge that you need to jumpstart your recovery. Addiction, however, remains a lifelong battle, and addicts generally need to remain involved in therapy, support groups, or 12-step programs for many years after rehab.

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