Substance abuse treatment works best with a combination of approaches. For many people, this can include medical detox, residential treatment, outpatient treatment, counseling or therapy, and any number of alternative approaches. One effective method for when a recovering addict returns home is centered around the community he or she lives in. Isolation is one of the worst things for someone in recovery. Loneliness, boredom, depression – these are all possibilities when you seclude yourself, and they are also triggers for relapse. Community based rehab involves your community in your recovery, and you in your community. Community, in this case, can mean either your literal neighborhood or a group of people in similar circumstances (though still living close by, unlike an online support group.)
Community based recovery housing is one option for people who are homeless or have no one they’re close to who they can live with. This includes things like halfway houses and sober houses and gives an individual a sort of built in support system. Recovery housing should be safe, healthy, and substance-free, and it provides both peer support and access to other services and support systems.
Twelve step groups are another form of community support. This groups can be grounded in Christianity, like Alcoholics Anonymous, and in a general sort of spirituality like Cocaine Anonymous. Some don’t focus on religion at all, like Secular A.A., which does not reject or accept any religion or lack thereof. No matter the specific type of group, they all work by having members share their experiences with one another, as well as the ways they’ve learned to cope, and providing a support network.
Community based treatment can be the best option for someone with no insurance or money to spare, or someone who needs to be able to continue working. By attending outpatient programs, for example, the individual has some flexibility in their schedule – and depending on the facility, access to childcare if needed. There are day rehabs, which can be located in treatment centers or clinics or hospitals, that require a few hours commitment five to seven days a week. There are also more intensive outpatient programs that can last for several months.
One benefit to involving a community in drug treatment is that it can help destigmatize drug use. Despite the many benefits of a group like A.A., the anonymity can help perpetuate the stigma, even if it’s just inside the addict’s mind. Also, oftentimes getting clean is just the beginning, and a person will need help finding housing, education, or a job. Involving the community in this effort can greatly increase their chances.
Unfortunately, there are many places both in the U.S. and overseas that are too poor or otherwise don’t have the resources for these sorts of programs. Experts say that it is vital to find a way to redirect funds to support them.
If you or a loved one need help with quitting drugs or alcohol, consider Asana Recovery. We offer medical detox, along with both residential and outpatient programs, and you’ll be supervised by a highly trained staff of medical professionals, counselors, and therapists. Call us any time at (949) 438-4504.
