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by Matt Brindisi
Each drug treatment center is unique, so there is no set answer to how a rehab facility will operate. The person who enters a drug rehab will have every opportunity to recover from a drug addiction or alcohol addiction. Many people think that all drug and alcohol treatment facilities are just like the places they see in the movies. Nothing could be farther from the truth. The truth is that the drug treatment centers for drug and alcohol addiction are just as unique as the people who utilize them on their roads to sobriety. In fact, getting sober usually relies heavily on the addict finding a rehab program that works for him/her (instead of trying to force themselves to adapt to something strange or different).
30 to 90 Day Inpatient Drug Treatment Center
When the alcoholic or drug addict checks into an inpatient drug rehab center or alcohol treatment program, they will usually be asked to pack a bag with clothing and a few personal effects. This largely depends on the rules of the treatment center-some centers restrict clients in terms of clothing types, colors, etc. When checking in, the bag will be examined to make sure that the client isn’t bringing any drugs or alcohol in with him and then he will be shown to his room. In most drug rehab center, the rooms house two or three people. After check in and orientation, the client can expect to have strictly regimented days. A schedule is enforced to create a structured environment. The day will usually feature an individual therapy session, a group therapy session, some education classes and community activities (and meals of course). Some inpatient drug rehabs are stricter than others. It is important to choose a rehab facility that works well with your individual needs.
Outpatient drug treatment centers offer their clients a lot more freedom than they will find at an inpatient drug treatment center. Some outpatient drug treatment programs are run much like inpatient facilities-a client will check in and be given a safe place to stay while he or she detoxes and then participate in activities and therapy when they want/need to. Other outpatient drug treatment facilities entrust that you will show up for your therapy and education appointments and allow you to live off site. You know yourself better than anyone. If you feel like you can handle the responsibility of staying sober in the “regular” world while you work through your addiction, you should choose one of the outpatient drug treatment facilities that have more leniency.
Many drug addicts are just not able to get sober when faced with the “regular world.” They need the comfort and seclusion of a drug treatment facility to help them as the drugs and alcohol leave their systems and they work to stay sober and get over their drug dependence. Other addicts are able to live at home and regain their sobriety without the help of a 24/7 facility. When choosing a drug and alcohol treatment center, be sure to pick one that has the ability to fill your specific needs and one who works with you towards you goal of compete recovery.
About the Author
Former CEO of Integrity Way Transitional Housing, now Admissions Coordinator of Transformations Treatment Center. I have been working with addicts at all levels of care.