Is Rehab the Only Option for Substance Abuse?

Addiction can’t be cured. It can, however, be successfully treated. A person who suffers from substance abuse will never be cured. There’s always a chance that they will relapse. Once a person completes treatment, they will be in recovery. Recovery is when a person stops using drugs and resumes a productive, normal life. Most people cannot stop using drugs on their own. They need help and this usually takes place in a clinical setting where they can be monitored. A rehab facility is equipped to handle medical emergencies and closely monitor a person who is experiencing withdrawals and any other unpleasant side effects. While there are many approaches to drug abuse treatment, rehab is the most effective.

Rehabilitation for Drug Abuse

A person who is addicted to drugs may need rehab to break the vicious cycle that is drug abuse. The professionals at Hickory Treatment Centers are compassionate and will provide professional medical care so that you experience rehab in a safe and controlled environment. Rehab will ensure you don’t experience extreme withdrawals. Rehab often involves a combination of treatments including:

  • Medications
  • Behavioral counseling
  • Evaluation and treatment for co-existing mental health conditions such as depression
  • Long-term follow-up to lessen the chance of relapse

Inpatient Treatment

Inpatient treatment is the best option for someone who has been addicted to drugs for a long time and will experience severe withdrawal symptoms once drug use ceases. Medical professionals will monitor a person and give medications to prevent many of the unpleasant withdrawal symptoms. Trying to quit cold turkey could make you very sick, and in extreme cases can be fatal.

Outpatient Treatment

Patients who are able to carry on with daily life, but are struggling with a drug or alcohol addiction may opt for outpatient treatment. Although intense, outpatient treatment allows a person to be treated several times a week while allowing them to take care of personal and work responsibilities. A person may be required to attend group therapy sessions as well as individual counseling. Patients who have completed inpatient treatment often move to outpatient treatment as the next phase of their treatment plan.

Primary Goals of Rehab

The National Library of Medicine reported on a study that found that untreated individuals were less likely to achieve a 3-year remission and more likely to relapse than those who had been treated for substance abuse. The ultimate goal of rehab and subsequent treatment is to prevent relapse. Individuals who complete rehab and continue therapy after treatment are much less likely to relapse.

Rehab is necessary to treat withdrawal symptoms. These symptoms depend on the drug of choice, the length of time the drug was used and a person’s overall health. When a person stops using the drug, he or she will experience emotions and physical symptoms that are best treated in a clinical setting. Getting through withdrawal is the first step to getting clean.

Another goal of rehab is to encourage the person to stay in treatment. This can involve individual counseling and group therapy. These can help in preventing relapse and help a person lead a happy and productive life.

If you want to make a positive change, contact Hickory Treatment Centers. Our compassionate staff is here to help you and will be with you every step of the way.

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If you have tried to stop using alcohol or drugs on your own, you may feel that sobriety and clean living seem far away. However, with the help of caring staff members and a safe, structured environment, you can receive the guidance you need to fight cravings and regain control of your life.

Contact us today to schedule an appointment with our admission staff or learn more about our healing programs.