Making the decision to check into a drug rehab facility is one that will bring positive results. With drug and alcohol addiction being a rampant problem throughout the country, there are plenty of facilities that will help you if you need treatment. Of course, you’re here because you are wondering how drug rehab actually works. Will you have to take time off from work to attend? Can you still take care of family responsibilities while you are a patient? We’re here to help answer these questions and more.
What to Expect
While every facility is different, most centers follow the same sort of pattern. You can expect the following when you attend a rehab program:
• Inpatient assessment
• Detox process
• Therapy sessions
• Aftercare
So how does each one work? Let’s take a closer look at what you can expect at every turn.
Inpatient assessment- On the very first day of your rehab stay, the staff will talk with you about your addiction. They will want to know your past history with drugs or alcohol, what you use, how often, and how much. They will ask you if you have ever tried to go through detox or rehab before. This is the time to be as open and honest as you can. They will put together a comprehensive plan for your detox and therapy sessions after your initial evaluation.
Detox process- many patients are unsure of whether they can come into a center when they are still under the influence. The answer is yes. The rehab facility does not expect their patients to be sober when they arrive, although you are of course permitted to be if that is your choice. You will, however, begin the process of detox as soon as you get settled in. This may or may not include medication that helps with your withdrawal symptoms. You will be closely monitored during this phase to ensure you stay healthy and comfortable.
Therapy sessions- From the very first day of rehab, patients are expected to attend therapy sessions. Group therapy sessions are generally held multiple times every day. Some even have therapy sessions in the middle of the night for those that need them. You’ll always be expected to participate in group therapy while you are a patient.
One-on-one therapy sessions are also a huge part of the rehab process. A qualified addiction therapist will be appointed for you, and you will usually begin sessions immediately upon arrival. If you are dealing with any sort of mental health disorder, including anxiety, depression, or PTSD, this will be the time to discuss it.
Family therapy sessions are often a part of rehab. In most facilities, you won’t see your family until you are completely sober. Some centers ask that families stay away for at least a couple of weeks. Your therapist will help determine when the best time will be in your case.
Aftercare- Before you leave rehab, your therapist will help you come up with an aftercare plan. This may mean continued therapy sessions in a different facility, or it may mean setting you up in a room at a local sober living facility. They will help you make the transition from rehab to your next living arrangement.
Do I Need to Take Time Off From Work?
The answer to this question will depend on your situation. If you can take off work for a couple of weeks, staying in an inpatient rehab will be amazing for your sobriety. Some companies offer medical leave for employees who need help with personal issues, even rehab and detox. The Family Medical Leave Act, if your company offers it, gives qualified employees up to 12 weeks of leave for different reasons. If you need to take off work for treatment, talk to your HR department or supervisor about receiving the necessary time off.
If you find that you cannot take off work, consider attending an outpatient rehab facility instead of inpatient. Outpatient treatment allows you to attend detox and therapy sessions around your work schedule. You will not have to stay overnight in a facility, so you will be able to continue working while receiving treatment. This may be the best option if you cannot stop working, even for detox or rehab.
Don’t be afraid to ask for help
When you are ready to start on the path to sobriety, don’t be afraid to ask for help. Give us a call today at 844-903-2111 to get the ball rolling. We are here for you when you need us.
