What to Consider When Choosing a Rehab Program

Deciding to get help for your substance use disorder is a huge step in your path to recovery. However, now that you have made this decision, it can be challenging to know what to look for in rehab facilities. How do you know what program is right for you? Should you stay close to home or go out of state? There are many questions to consider, and being pointed in the right direction will help guide you along the way. Educating yourself on various rehab programs and what they offer and then ensuring the programs match up with what you need from treatment will give you the best healing opportunity.

Types of Programs

There are various types of rehab programs that are suited for different treatment circumstances and needs. The differences between programs include how long the program lasts, where the treatment is given, and how it is structured. Some programs are more intensive than others, while other programs offer more freedom within their treatment circles. It is crucial to seek a healthcare professional’s advice when considering a rehab program. They can assess your needs and help you determine which program is right for you.

Outpatient Treatment

In outpatient treatment, you will stay at home as you go about your typical daily activities and responsibilities but come into the facility for treatment sessions multiple times a week. Some programs can be more intensive, giving you the care you need while still managing your tasks at home.

Inpatient Treatment

Inpatient treatment is the opposite of outpatient in that it has patients living at a hospital or other treatment facility as they are given intensive care. This is usually for more severe addiction cases where individuals need to be monitored more closely by addiction treatment professionals.

Residential Treatment

Like inpatient treatment, patients stay at a facility full time. However, this facility is typically not in a hospital setting. These programs are great for shifting focus solely on recovery as patients learn life skills, go through counseling, and participate in various treatment modalities.

Recovery Housing

Recovery housing, or sober living homes, typically the next step after a rehab program. They are especially helpful in aiding those in recovery transition back into their everyday lives. These facilities offer more freedom than other treatment centers, but they are still structured in a way that helps residents focus on their recovery.

Know Your Needs

There are certain things to consider when you are looking at rehab programs. You should know your budget, your availability, and the level of your addiction. The first two are easier to consider as you look at your finances, insurance, and weigh your responsibilities at home. However, determining your addiction level can be difficult, as many individuals often believe they may not be in a bad situation. Fortunately, there are ways to help you determine which level of care you need based on your addiction severity. Speaking to a mental health professional and getting evaluated by a doctor can help determine the necessary criteria to find your appropriate level of care.

The ASAM Criteria

The ASAM Criteria was created to help determine the severity of one’s addiction. Your therapist or healthcare professional will ask you questions to determine how severe your addiction is to help choose the right method of care for you. Questions are asked according to multiple categories. These categories include:

  1. History with Substance Abuse
  2. Medical Conditions and Complications
  3. Mental and Emotional Health
  4. Desire and Readiness to Change
  5. Current Usage and Relapse Potential
  6. Living Situation and Recovery Support

Once all of the questions have been answered, your provider can help you develop a plan for treatment by determining what kind of care would be best for you. This way, you have the best chance of recovering and maintaining your sobriety over time.

Quality of Care

With so many rehab programs and facilities across the United States, it is essential to know that the one you are looking at provides quality care with treatment modalities proven to help with addiction. Luckily, the National Center on Addiction and Substance Abuse has created a quality care checklist to help you ensure that the program you are considering meets basic standards. The list of things to look out for includes:

  • Various treatment modalities are offered rather than only one
  • Treatment for other medical conditions is available
  • The program holds a license or accreditation
  • Aftercare and support following treatment are offered
  • One or more physicians that have specialized training and experience in treating addiction are on staff
  • Patients are not automatically removed from the program due to relapse
  • There is an addiction psychiatrist or addiction medicine physician on staff full time
  • Various treatment sessions that are proven to be effective are offered for a minimum of three hours per week

Considering rehab programs is a big first step on your road to recovery. While there are expensive rehabs that come with flash and glamour, it is essential to remember that you need to choose a facility that is right for you rather than one that seems to be the best. A program that works for one person may not be the best option for another. As you consider your personal needs, responsibilities, and budget, you should also consider the quality of the facility. Educate yourself on what to look for in a facility, the various types of facilities, and the type of care you will require. Talk to your doctor or another healthcare provider to see if they can help you determine what level of care is right for you. At Northstar Transitions, we want you to have the best chance at recovery. We understand how difficult it can be to get clean and stay clean, which is why choosing the right program is of the utmost importance. Call us today at (303) 558-6400 for help in choosing the right program for you.

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