Attending rehab for the first time can seem like an intimidating experience. Even if you are ready to stop using drugs, it can be tough to know what to expect from your program. However, knowing what happens in rehab can ease your mind and help you prepare. In this post, we will go over some of the most common features of drug rehab programs so that you know what to expect.
Checking In
When you first check in, the staff members will probably have you complete an intake interview. This interview will cover your addiction and personal history. You may also be asked to take a drug test. This is a key part of the process because it will help your healthcare professionals begin to create a customized treatment plan for you.
After the interview, you will be given a room and shown around the facility. Orientation typically includes a tour of the grounds, an introduction to staff members, and information about house rules.
Detoxification
The first step in the actual rehabilitation process is detoxification (or “detox” for short). This is the process of removing all traces of drugs and alcohol from your system. Detox can be uncomfortable, but it is essential because it rids your body of all toxins before beginning treatment.
Most detox programs last for about a week, but this may vary depending on the drug you are addicted to. On average, they last between 3 and 14 days. During detox, you will likely experience withdrawal symptoms. These can range from mild to severe, but the staff will be there to help you through it.
Therapy
After detox, you will begin therapy. This is where the real work of rehab begins. You and your therapist will work together to identify the causes of your addiction and develop a plan to address them. There are numerous kinds of therapy that you might go through during this part of the process. Some common ones include:
Individual Therapy
The most common type of therapy, individual therapy focuses on you as an individual. Your therapist will help you identify the issues that led to your addiction and develop coping mechanisms to deal with them.
Group Therapy
In group therapy, you will meet with a small group of people who are also in rehab. This is a great opportunity to share your experiences and learn from others. It can also be a support system during your time in rehab.
Family Counseling
If you are close to your family, they may participate in family therapy. This is a chance for them to learn about addiction and how to best support you during and after rehab.
Aftercare
Once you finish rehab, it is important to have a plan for continuing treatment by the end of your treatment program, your counselor will have curated a plan for you to remain sober after you return home. This plan may include continued therapy, support groups, transitional housing, and social and medical support services that can help you stay on track with your recovery.
Rehab is not easy, but it is worth it. With the right attitude and a willingness to work hard, you can overcome your addiction and get your life back on track. Knowing what to expect from drug rehab can make the process a little less intimidating. If you are looking for drug rehab near me, make sure to reach out to local facilities to find one that best suits your needs.
Author: Mandy Kloppers
Mandy is a qualified therapist who treats depression, anxiety, OCD, PTSD, trauma, and many other types of mental health issues. She provides online therapy around the world for those needing support and also provides relationship counselling.
