When you hear the term “rehab” what do you think of? Do you think of the countless news stories revolving celebrities, do you think of a solution that is only for people who hit rock bottom, or do think of an institution that is built to help people? If you’re like most people, the word comes with negative feelings and imagery. But that’s not the truth about rehab. So, what is rehab?
Today, we at Direct2Recovery are going to go over what rehab is, along with common myths and misconceptions about it. We want to tackle those negative feelings head on and clear the air about reputable rehab clinics so you can be confident in your decision, or so you can be more informed about rehab in general.
Let’s get right into it.
What is Rehab?
“Rehab” is a general term for intensive, supervised programs designed to help people stop using drugs or alcohol. On the surface, that sounds scary. We get it. But let’s go deeper than just the surface. Rehab is more than just recovering from addiction; it’s about giving you the tools you need to stay clean for the rest of your life. It’s a literal life-changing program with your best interests in mind.
Rehab can help you or someone you love step down from addiction safely and stay sober after detox. However, the length and form of treatment varies, based on your personal situation and dependence on drugs or alcohol. No single treatment works for everyone. It’s important to figure out if rehab is right for you and then choose a program that meets your needs.
There are several types of drug and alcohol rehab available, but they typically involve the same general steps toward recovery. There is detox, which removes the drugs from the patient’s system; therapy, which helps the patient change their behaviors and cope with triggers; and resocialization, which helps patients learn how to live while sober.
Some rehabs specialize in one, while others combine two or all three. Direct2Recovery is a combination. As an outpatient facility, we specialize in medicine assisted treatment, meaning we emphasize detox and therapy.
What’s an Outpatient Clinic?
Outpatient rehab clinics involve daily treatment, such as therapy, counseling, or group sessions, at a clinic or facility. Once the daily treatment is finished, patients go about their daily lives. They are not restricted to the clinic – they can go home whenever they want. Some outpatient facilities, like Direct2Recovery, even offer telemedicine options.
Most programs involve individual or group counseling and use a step-down approach, which means sessions become less intensive and frequent as you grow during treatment to help maintain recovery over the long-term.
What About Inpatient?
Inpatient clinics provide patients with a place to stay during their recovery. They’re also called residential rehab, because the patient lives at the facility. Inpatient rehab can be effective for people with severe problems with drugs or alcohol as it helps the patient avoid temptations and influences that trigger substance use.
Common Misconceptions and Myths about Rehab
Now that you know what rehab is, let’s go over what rehab is not.
Rehab is not for those who hit “rock bottom.” It’s not the final option, last resort solution, or final step before jail. Rehab is for everyone who wants help with their addiction. You don’t have to wait until you experience a devastating consequence of drinking or doing drugs such as losing your job, getting a DUI or destroying your marriage.
Those who go to rehab do not share the same story, nor are they all in the same dead-end place in their lives or recovery cycle. They come from all walks of life and each have their own individual stories, problems, and hopes. They’re not all at rock bottom. In fact, most are here because they have hope for a better life.
Myth 2: Rehab Isn’t Covered By Insurance
Many people avoid rehab because they’re worried about the cost that comes with it. However, rehab is more affordable than you may think. Some insurances even cover it.
If you bought insurance through the Affordable Care Act (ACA) Marketplace, substance use treatment is considered an “essential health benefit.”7 This means that you can’t be denied coverage for treatment of an existing substance use disorder and that the plans cannot impose yearly or lifetime coverage limits. Contact your insurance plan for more details about your specific coverage.
If your insurance plan won’t cover your treatment, rehab centers will help you find a payment plan that works for you. Many programs will help you access the care you need by offering financing, loans, or sliding payment scales based on your income.
Myth 3: If You’re in Rehab, You’re Weak
The hardest thing anyone can do is admit they have a problem and take steps to fix it. If you’re in rehab or , you’re not not weak. You’re the strongest you that you’ve ever been. You’re actively saying “no” to something that’s changed your life for the worst and actively turning your back to addiction.
That will never make you weak.
This myth is one of the most harmful ones we hear. So many people believe they are weak if they seek help and that they are strong enough to beat their addiction themselves. Whether you are, or whether you need a little extra help, that is not a sign of weakness.
Addiction is a chronic and progressive disease that changes your brain chemistry. Treating a substance use disorder is much more complex than simply quitting. Permanent recovery is an ongoing process that requires hard work to heal physically and mentally and to acquire the life skills and spiritual practices needed to build a healthy and fulfilling sober life.
You’re making the harder choice to recover. You’re making the choice to be a stronger person; stronger than addiction and stronger than previous bad decisions.
Myth 4: I’ll Get Fired for Going to Rehab
You’re actually protected against being fired if you go to rehab (in most cases). The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) protects individuals who work in state and local governmental units, as well as private companies with 15 or more employees, from being fired for attending treatment for drug addiction.
There are some restrictions, such as if you can’t do your job safely and competently when you return to work or if you test positive for illegal drugs, you may be legally terminated.
You should also know that many companies have Employee Assistance Programs (EAPs), which offer a range of services to support employees, including help for those who need treatment for addiction. Look into it and know your rights. You’re more protected than you may think!
Where Can You Find Rehab Clinics?
Finding what you need can be a challenge, but a little research will put you on the right path. You could benefit the most from an in-patient facility, or you could try our MAT plan. We combine Suboxone with counseling to maximize your chances of recovery. We also offer telemedicine plans too, so you can feel comfortable and safe at home. Reach out online or give us a call to get started. We’ll be happy to walk you through the process and to help.
