Once you’ve decided to seek help for drug or alcohol abuse, the most important question is how to choose a treatment center that’s right for you. There are a variety of factors to consider, including location, certification, finances, and the programs offered. Knowing the right questions to ask can save both money and heartache, whether you’re looking on behalf of yourself or a family member.
First, consider whether the program is short term or long term. While shorter stays mean less money, it’s important to remember that addiction is complex and often cannot be overcome in less than a month. Medical detox is usually the first step in the process, but it can vary from place to place. Some programs have no onsite monitoring at all, while others provide 24-hour access to a medical team. People who are medically stable but require some supervision might choose a partial hospitalization program. Those who need around-the-clock mental health assistance would be better off with inpatient rehab. Outpatient care allows you to continue working or going to school while still receiving therapy. Understand your needs and motivations, and choose a program that will work for you.
Another question is how the center deals with cravings, both mental and physical. Some places offer medication to alleviate the symptoms, but it is unfortunately easy for a user to switch their addiction from one drug to another. For example, Xanax, a tranquilizer that is used to treat panic and anxiety disorders, can become addictive after just twelve weeks. Other medications have harmful side effects that may outweigh the benefits to recovery. Antabuse is sometimes given to alcoholics to make them feel sick when they drink. It can be an effective treatment for alcoholism, but it can also cause fatal liver problems. Knowing what medications a facility offers can be vital to your long-term health.
There are options besides medication to conquer the cravings. Look for places that offer counseling, recreation, and physical activity. Nutrition is also a key component of recovery. One study found that opiate abuse can cause malnutrition, and alcoholism can cause anemia and brain disease as a result of nutritional deficiencies.
The program should also have a plan in place for reintegration into the world. An addict may need to learn new life skills and coping mechanisms, such as how to deal with stress and break old patterns. Make sure that the program isn’t offering a miracle cure. Recovery takes time and a well-rounded plan, so don’t be fooled by claims that a 10-day course of electric shocks is going to result in a permanent cure.
Asana Recovery strives to provide our clients with everything they need for an effective and lasting recovery. We offer detox, which transitions into a more personalized plan including residential and outpatient treatment. Meals are prepared by a chef and planned by a dietitian for maximum nutritional value. Our method involves both medication-based therapy like Suboxone, and alternative approaches including art therapy. Call us at (949) 438-4504 to learn more.
