Substance abuse is a huge problem in today’s society. Addiction is a horrible disease that is indiscriminate in those it affects. Once an addiction is so extreme there are few options for full recovery. This is why there are substance abuse rehabilitation centers that offer inpatient addiction rehabilitation for those who are addicted to drugs, alcohol, or both.
Addiction
There are many kinds of addictions, the most common surround drugs and alcohol. An addiction takes over a person’s life. Not only does an addiction affect their body physically, it effects relationships with family and friends and has a major impact on the mental health and status of an addict.
Detox
Because an addiction to drugs or alcohol has such an effect on the body, the body begins to rely on the substance in order to function properly. This is why one of the first steps in recovery is going through a alcohol medical detox program. Detox should be conducted in a safe environment with medical supervision around due to the severe reactions that can occur.
Rehab
After detox the real recovery begins. Rehabilitation programs help a recovering addict restore all aspects of their life. Rehabilitation is a derivative of the French verb to live. Basically, rehab, teaches addicts how to live again. It teaches them the basics of life without their addiction. This is an important process.
Counseling
One of the key aspects to rehabilitation is counseling. Counseling provides an outlet for the addict to discuss their addiction and how it affected their life. It is an important tool in the recovery process. There are many forms of counseling like group counseling, individual counseling, and family counseling. Addictions often are a symptom of an underlying disorder or a co-occurring disorder such as depression or post-traumatic stress syndrome. It’s important that both the addiction and co-occurring disorder be treated.
Therapy
Therapy can be conducted in a variety of settings. There is group therapy where addicts, as a group, will cope with feelings of addiction and withdrawal. There is also individual therapy which is similar to counseling but a more intensive level. There are different approaches to therapy as well. Sometimes people choose a more holistic approach.
Aftercare
Once inpatient rehabilitation is complete there is follow up care that must be adhered to in order for recovery to stick. Aftercare is a support system built in for those recently released from rehabilitation. It is a safety net that will aid former addicts in their transition from rehab to their normal daily life. Aftercare includes therapy and counseling, as well as 12 step programs to help an addict stay on track. It is also a valuable asset if a recovered addict feels the need to use again.