Entering a drug rehabilitation program is a significant step towards recovery and a healthier life. While movies and TV shows often depict a person agreeing to rehab on the spot during an intervention, it doesn’t look this way for everyone. For instance, you may be someone who is struggling with substance use but still functioning, allowing you to do your own research. Or, you may be someone who is looking for help for a loved one. Either way, the right preparation can help make the rehab experience more positive and effective.
Let’s look closer at some of the ways you can prepare for a drug and alcohol rehab program.
Acknowledge the Need for Help
Denial is a symptom of addiction, and it can stop people from seeking help when they need it. You may assume that you have things under control or can quit when you want, but this probably isn’t the case. Addiction is not an issue with willpower or self-control. It is a brain disease that involves the compulsive urge to continue using substances despite negative consequences. Acknowledging that there is a problem is a huge step in the right direction, and one that will allow you to start healing. Because treatment exists on a spectrum, you can receive care at any time. You do not need to wait until things are out of control before seeking help.
Research Your Treatment Options
There are many treatment options available, which is a huge advantage, but it can also make things overwhelming. Start by considering the type of treatment you need to start your recovery. An inpatient program is ideal for treating severe addictions and mental health issues as it provides 24-hour support and monitoring. It is more expensive, and you will be living at the facility. However, it can be a great fit for those who need structure and distance from their home life.
An outpatient program is far more flexible as it allows you to return home at night. There are different types of outpatient programs, including partial hospitalization programs (PHPs), intensive outpatient programs (IOPs) and standard outpatient programs (OPs). Oftentimes, individuals follow a “step down” approach where they gradually step down to lower levels of care. This means that you’ll spend less and less time in treatment as you grow stronger in recovery.
Aside from inpatient and outpatient programs, some other factors to consider are:
- Holistic treatment. Do you want to supplement your recovery with holistic practices, such as meditation, yoga, mindfulnesses or deep breathing? If so, look for a program that offers these services.
- 12-step introductions. The 12-step model is effective for many people. Some programs offer an introduction to the 12 steps so that you can attend these meetings right away.
- Dual diagnosis. Mental health disorders often go along with substance use disorders. Dual diagnosis care ensures that both disorders are treated simultaneously for the best results.
- Location. Consider whether or not you want to stay close to home during your treatment. Some people prefer the support system they have at home, while others want to limit distractions.
Financial Planning
The cost of rehab is a concern for most families as any type of health care can get expensive quickly. Fortunately, there are options to make rehab more affordable. First, reach out to your insurance provider and see what benefits you have for substance use treatment. You can also ask the treatment center of your choice to verify your benefits.
Once you know what your out of pocket costs will look like, you can choose how you’re going to pay. You may only have to pay a little out of pocket after insurance, but if you need to pay a lot, this can be arranged with credit cards or other financing options. Remember, you are investing in your life.
Take Care of Work and Legal Matters
The ADA protects your job as long as you seek treatment before showing up to work impaired. You may also be eligible for FMLA, which allows you to take time off to attend rehab without losing your job. As you step down to outpatient care, you may be able to work part time. However, your focus right now is on your recovery. Once you get healthier, you can start working and contributing to your bills.
Arrange Personal Matters
Also be sure to account for other personal matters such as bills, pets and children. Ensure your children are cared for by trusted friends or family, and find someone reliable to look after your pets. Set up automatic payments for your bills so you don’t need to worry about them, or have someone pay them while you’re away. The goal is to alleviate these worries so that you can focus on healing.
Affordable, Flexible and Convenient Drug Rehab in Santa Rosa, CA
These are some of the best ways to prepare for drug rehab. By addressing these aspects beforehand, you’ll feel more in control when it’s time to enter the program. Pura Vida Recovery offers various treatment programs in Santa Rosa, CA. We even provide sober living for those who want to get away, focus on their recovery and be in a positive and sober environment. Contact us today to learn more about how we can help you achieve sobriety.
