Alcoholism can adversely affect many, if not all, aspects of a person’s life. It is considered a disease which usually afflicts those with addictive personalities. The decision to go through treatment for alcohol addiction recovery is an important decision, one that can change the life of the patient, as well as those around him or her. After making the decision to go through rehabilitation, the next step is finding the best possible method of recovery.
Cost of Alcohol Recovery
Treatments can range in cost from being free through one’s insurance to being tens of thousands of dollars for a month-long program. One should be sure to check with the insurance company before committing to a pricey alcoholism recovery facility. Lately, many insurance companies are resisting coverage for drug or alcohol rehabilitation. In the end, it may be wise to search out a more moderately-priced program.
Types of Alcohol Recovery Programs
There are several types of alcohol recovery programs out there. Each one caters to a different need. Some have philosophical differences, such as Christian-based, holistic, or gender specific. However, all have the common goal of long-term sobriety. Most of the several thousand existing alcohol addiction recovery programs are based on the 12-step program model. Most rehabilitation programs offer counseling, behavioral or group therapy, lectures, classes, and workshops on substance abuse, and/or relapse prevention therapy in the frame of in-patient or out-patient care.
In-Patient Care
For those people who have been struggling with heavy alcoholism for several years, or have tried to quit in the past but have failed, an in-patient care facility may be the best route. Specifically, in-patient care has two distinct types: detox and residential primary treatment. Detox covers the first week to 10 days of sobriety and focuses on detoxification of the body and managing withdrawal symptoms. Residential primary treatment is full time counseling and monitoring. These are roughly 21 to 45 days long, although some can be as long as a year or more. The stay depends on the patient’s progress and condition. Patents receive therapy and education, as well as time to physically heal.
Out-Patient Care
Out-patient alcohol abuse recovery treatments are for those who have either already gone through an in-patient care program and are getting back on their feet or are for those who have proper support from friends and family. This type of program usually requires people to attend group meetings and activities, about 3 to 4 hours per day, 3 to 5 days per week. Out-patient programs do not require people to commit to full time treatment. Many patients have jobs and go to class during the day while going to rehab at night.
Determining Factors
Deciding to be sober is a hugely important step that takes commitment and trust. One must trust and feel comfortable at the drug alcohol rehab one chooses. Be sure to select an environment that allows concentration on recovery and transition. Taking a tour of the facility, asking to review a typical day, or talking with some of the counselors at the facility will help give an accurate idea of what to expect. Make sure the facility offers a variety of services which include ones that will be needed most. Understand patient rights and payment plans before signing on the dotted line. Lastly, bring a trusted friend or family member to inspect a few alcoholism recovery centers before deciding on one. Knowing that the right program was chosen will give much-needed peace of mind during a time of intense transition and vulnerability.
If you know someone who is struggling with addiction, please call 866.206.8656 for a list of detox centers.