Getting the Most Out of Drug Rehab

By Staff Writer

You can choose the best rehab centers in the country and still suffer relapse after relapse. Why? Because even the best rehab center can’t do the work of recovery for you.

Here are a few tips for getting the most out of your investment in drug rehab:

Change Your Outlook. Addiction can make life feel empty and hopeless. If you’ve tried to get help before and relapsed, it may seem that treatment just won’t work for you. But going into rehab with a negative attitude is a set-up for failure. Although no one expects you to be excited about rehab, knowing that you’re doing what it takes to create the life you want should set a positive mood for your recovery.

Set Realistic Expectations. Healing from addiction is hard work. You’re doing much more than fixing a bad habit – you’re creating a new way of life for yourself and those around you. If you expect too much of yourself or your drug rehab program too quickly – or if you think that you can be “cured” of addiction in just 30 days – you’ll likely get discouraged when drug cravings and temptations arise. Be prepared for rules, structure and supervision, and know that these are in place for your safety and success. Recovery is a lifelong process, so embrace the mindset that you’re in it for the long haul.

Choose the Best Rehab Center for Your Needs. Different drug rehab programs have different specialties. For example, a trauma drug rehab will have expertise in treating both addiction and emotional trauma. Other programs may specialize in other types of co-occurring disorders such as depression or anxiety. A thorough assessment will help you understand your particular needs so that you can begin researching the best rehab centers for you.

If addiction specialists recommend residential treatment, don’t settle for counseling or 12-Step meetings alone. If you’re facing a long and painful detox, find a program that has expertise in medication assisted detox. Choosing the right level of care and the right program will give you the best chance at avoiding the despair of relapse.

Take Advantage of What’s Available. Many components of a drug rehab program are mandatory, such as individual and group therapy, lectures and 12-Step meetings. You’ll get more out of these experiences if you share your stories and perspectives and do the recommended readings and therapeutic assignments. Start practicing the 12-Step principles of honesty and surrender in your daily life.

There are also many optional activities that are equally important. If you’re looking to get the most out of your treatment experience and truly learn about life in recovery, you’ll want to participate in sober recreational activities, get to know other people in treatment, and try out alternative therapies such as massage and acupuncture. By getting involved, you’re more likely to find the therapies and approaches that will help you achieve lifelong sobriety.

By entering rehab, you’ve sent a clear message: You are serious about your recovery. By continuing to make the next right decision, you’ll find that better health and happiness aren’t as far off as they once seemed.