Drug and Alcohol Rehab Programs for Beginners

Posted by Amos Fred on March 16th, 2020

Checking into a facility for drug and alcohol rehab in Orange County isn’t the kind of experience anyone wants to have. But if you’re struggling with substance abuse and you’re taking steps to change your life, going into a rehab program is a step in the right direction. Find out what to expect when you seek out treatment, so you’ll be emotionally prepared for what’s ahead.

Expect No Locks

Becoming a part of a residential program often means staying in a room with no locks on the doors, VeryWell says. That’s not by accident, though. No locks on the door is reflective of the facility’s stand, that people are free to leave at any time. This also means that if you check into the program, you’ll have to deal with the lack of privacy, as you’ll be under constant monitoring and supervision by the staff.

Go Through Detox

Before treatment can start, you’ll need to undergo detox, which involves flushing the drugs or alcohol out of your system. If you have alcohol dependence, you’ll develop withdrawal symptoms within six to twenty-four hours after your last drink, the WebMD says. The withdrawal symptoms include anxiety, nausea, depression, shakiness (especially in your hands), sleeping problems, unstable changes in blood pressure and heart rate, among others.

Follow a Customized Care Plan

Rehab facilities with high rates of recovery success believe in providing patients with personalized care plans. Patients have different situations. Treatment plans that factor in those conditions and that address their specific needs have a better chance of helping along with their recovery. If the facility doesn’t offer a personalized care plan, don’t bother going back. Consult with other options on your list until you find a facility that fits the bill. Do they offer customized treatment plans? Find out.

Consider the Costs

The cost of ongoing treatment can set you back by a lot. Look for ways that you could afford the treatment. Some offer discounts. Some insurance companies cover a portion of the treatment costs, which saves you some money. Think about rehab facilities that can help you get back on track without draining your budget dry. By doing the math, you’ll also know which facilities are much more suited to what you need.

Recovery is an Ongoing Cycle

Your recovery efforts don’t end when the program does. If you’re enrolling in rehab with the idea that you’ll only need to be in and out for the program and that you’ll magically be able to cope with the addiction by the end of the treatment, you’ll be disappointed. Instead, enroll in the treatment with the mindset that you’ll have a lot to learn about recovery and healing, that recovery is ongoing.

Ask About Aftercare Support

Transitioning to the real world after rehab often tests the resolve of an addict in recovery. Whether you’re dealing with drugs or alcohol abuse, finding a treatment facility with great aftercare support will help keep you sober and prevent a relapse. That, coupled with support from your loved ones, will help you change your life for the better.