How will a drug rehab help you?

How does a drug or alcohol rehab work? What is a ‘treatment plan’ and how does it help an individual recover? A typical treatment plan in a drug rehab center consists of structured steps, each stage designed to address an aspect of your addiction. Sure, it isn’t easy. But it’s worth it!

Detoxification is the first stage

The first stage is detoxification. When you stop the intake of any addictive substances, your body takes time to process this while freeing itself from the chemicals. The duration of detoxification varies from individual to individual – a few days to weeks – depending on various factors such as the nature of the chemical, history of abuse and the physical condition of the person.

During detoxification, you are likely to feel various uncomfortable symptoms. Many of these symptoms were likely the reason you continued to use whatever substance you were addicted to.

Withdrawal symptoms may consist of:

• Restless

• Nausea

• Depression/ anxiety

• Sleeplessness

• Tremors

• Body aches

In severe cases, you may even experience seizures or ‘delirium tremens’, which may cause hallucinations. However, the medical team at the rehab will try and minimize the severity of these symptoms with medications and some emotional support. A good rehab will also get a comprehensive physical and psychiatric evaluation so that any existing condition can also be addressed.

Psychological Care is the second stage

Physical cleansing is just the beginning of the process. The second, and perhaps most important, stage will be assessing any underlying or co-occurring psychological issues. People with psychological problems (also known as co-occurring disorders) often get into alcohol or drug addiction. With other people, long term use of chemicals causes a psychological problem. These mental health concerns must be identified for an effective individual treatment plan to be evolved.

Holistic treatment is the third stage

Once an individual treatment plan is made based on the initial assessments, the actual treatment begins. Since addiction affects all areas of the person, the treatment should be multi-dimensional, addressing the physical, psychological, social and spiritual areas. This may be done by mixing various disciplines and techniques, such as:

• Psychotherapy

• Group therapy

• Individual counselling

• Art therapy

• Yoga

• Meditation

• 12 Step work

Behavioral Modification breaks unhealthy habits

Ultimately, the addict needs to change his or her behaviour – or habits. Behaviour modification is done with the help of various therapies such as:

• Contingency management therapy (rewards for proper behavior)

• Cognitive behavioral therapy (learning new and appropriate coping mechanisms)

• Drug counseling (educating more about the dangers of drugs and how to prevent relapses)

• Dialectical behavior therapy (similar to cognitive behavioral therapy)

Behaviour modification also leads to altered attitudes. You may now begin to have a more positive outlook toward others and life in general. Hope Trust also works out a Relapse Prevention Plan specific to the individual.

Yoga and meditation bring balance in the individual’s body and mind through time-tested techniques. Hope Trust has developed special programs and integrated these into the treatment protocols.

Treatment does not stop here. There’s one more step after you complete your treatment at the alcohol or drug rehab:

Aftercare is essential for lasting success

Since addiction is highly relapse-prone, it is always a good idea to enroll in an aftercare program of the rehab. Early recovery can be challenging and it is helpful to seek support of your therapist, especially at the rehab who is familiar with your history and unique issues.

Hope Trust has an effective Aftercare program that can be done from anywhere using Skype.

Ask for help, before it’s too late

We understand how difficult it may be for you to ask for help. However, keep in mind that addiction is a downward spiral. Addiction to alcohol or drugs destroys families and ultimately kills the addict. Get help before it’s too late.