When deciding how effective is rehab, we need to understand that some drugs are harder to treat than others. Things like where the treatment is and what kind of treatment it is can also affect how well it works. Like any long-term illness, some people find the right treatment and do well. Others might get better for a while but then relapse.
This guide will look at how well rehab works, and show you how to find the right treatment for you.
What Is Rehab?
Rehab, short for rehabilitation, is a place where people go to get help for drug or alcohol problems. In rehab, people work with doctors, counselors, and other professionals to stop using drugs or alcohol and learn how to live a healthier life.
Types of rehab
There are different types of rehabs to fit different needs:
- Inpatient rehab: Inpatient rehab means you stay at the rehab center full-time. This type of rehab is good for people who need a lot of support and want to get away from triggers that make them use drugs or alcohol.
- Outpatient rehab: Outpatient rehab means you live at home but go to the rehab center for treatment during the day. This type of rehab is good for people who have a strong support system at home and can manage their daily responsibilities while getting help.
Both inpatient and outpatient rehabs offer therapy and counseling. These sessions help people understand why they use drugs or alcohol and teach them new ways to cope with their problems.
What happens in rehab?
In rehab, people follow a treatment plan designed just for them. Here are some things that might be part of a treatment plan:
- Detox: This is the first step where the body gets rid of the drugs or alcohol. Detox can be hard, but it’s the first essential part of recovery.
- Therapy sessions: People attend individual or group therapy sessions. In these sessions, they talk about their feelings, learn about addiction, and find ways to stay sober.
- Education: Rehab programs often include education about addiction and how it affects the body and mind. Learning about addiction helps people understand their condition and how to fight it.
- Activities: Many rehabs offer activities like exercise, art, or meditation. These activities help people find new hobbies and ways to relax without using drugs or alcohol.
Why rehab works
Rehab works because it provides a safe and supportive environment. People in rehab are surrounded by others who understand what they’re going through. They get professional help and learn new skills to live a drug-free life. It offers the tools and support needed to start a new, healthier chapter in life.
How Effective Is Rehab for Addiction?
There is no standard way to measure rehab effectiveness. Many facilities use different factors to determine rehab success rates, such as:
- The number of people who finish the program.
- The percentage of people who stay sober right after treatment.
- Interviews with former patients.
- Internal studies by the facility.
A better way to measure success is by looking at the quality of care the facility provides, both during and after treatment.
Relapse rates for drug and alcohol use are similar to those of other chronic diseases like hypertension and diabetes. About 40 to 60% of people relapse in recovery.
National surveys show that only about one-third of people with alcohol use disorder try to quit drinking each year. Of those, only about 25% moderate their drinking for more than a year.
Prescription opioid addiction and heroin addiction often start because of chronic pain. Even if you take opioids as the doctor tells you, your body can become dependent on them if you take them for a long time. Staying sober can be tough. One study found that 60% of people who finished opioid rehab relapsed within a week, and up to 80% relapsed in the first year. To help with this, the government supports MAT (medication-assisted treatment) programs. These programs use medicine and talk therapy together to help people.
Research shows that the longer a person stays in rehab, the more chance they’ll stay sober after they leave.
Addiction is a long-term condition, so relapse, or going back to drug or alcohol use, can happen. Newer treatments help reduce the risk of relapse, and an aftercare plan helps people stay on track even after completing a treatment program. Research shows that most people who get and stay in treatment stop misusing drugs and alcohol, and improve their social and mental health.
Relapse does not mean treatment has failed. It means the person needs to contact their doctor or another healthcare provider to resume treatment, change the approach, or try a different rehab program.
Types of Rehab Treatments & Their Success Rates
There are various types of rehab treatments available, each with different success rates. Here are some common types:
Inpatient rehab
Inpatient rehab requires people to stay at a facility full-time. This type of rehab provides a structured environment and intensive support. The success rate for inpatient rehab can be high, particularly for individuals with severe addictions, as it removes them from their usual environment and potential triggers.
Outpatient rehab
Outpatient rehab allows patients to live at home while attending treatment sessions. This is suitable for those with milder addictions or those who need to maintain daily responsibilities. Success rates for outpatient rehab can vary, as it requires strong personal commitment and support systems at home.
Therapy and counseling
Therapy and counseling, including CBT (cognitive behavioral therapy) and DBT (dialectical behavior therapy), are integral parts of both inpatient and outpatient programs. These treatments help people understand their addiction and develop coping strategies. Success rates improve when therapy is combined with other treatments like medication.
MAT
MAT (medication-assisted treatment) combines medications with counseling and behavioral therapies. It is often used for opioid and alcohol addictions. The success rates for MAT are generally high, as it helps manage withdrawal symptoms and reduce cravings.
12-step programs
12-step programs like AA (Alcoholics Anonymous) and NA (Narcotics Anonymous) focus on peer support and a step-by-step approach to recovery. These programs are widely accessible and can be effective, especially when combined with professional treatment. Success varies based on individual participation and commitment.
The effectiveness of each treatment type can depend on the individual’s specific needs, the quality of the program, and the level of support provided.
4 Ways to Choose the Right Rehab for You
Here’s how to choose the right rehab in four easy steps.
1) Decide what your goals and needs are
Before choosing a rehab, it’s important to know what you want to achieve. Different rehabs focus on different things and have various ways to measure success. Knowing your goals will help you pick the right place.
- Identify your goals: First, think about what substances or behaviors you want to stop. Sometimes, there are other problems you might not notice at first, but they can affect your recovery. Make a list of all the substances or behaviors you need help with.
- Check for other issues: Next, see if you have any other issues like mental health disorders or medical conditions such as heart or liver disease. Find a rehab that can treat these issues at the same time with dual diagnosis treatment.
- Define success: Decide what success looks like for you. Is your goal to finish detox and stay sober for 30 days? Do you need a longer stay to help you stay sober after treatment? Talk with your loved ones, but remember, the final choice is yours.
2) Investigate various rehab options
Whether you find a rehab online or by talking to a treatment provider, make sure it has everything you need. Look for information on their website and call them if you have more questions. Top-rated rehabs want you to succeed, so don’t hesitate to ask about anything you need to know.
3) Read testimonials and reviews
Hearing from others who have been through the program can help you decide. Look for reviews and testimonials from former patients. Positive feedback can give you confidence that the rehab is effective. Be cautious of any place with lots of negative reviews.
4) Speak with a treatment provider
Talking to a treatment provider is a great way to learn about your options and find a program that matches your goals. There are many choices, and a provider can help you understand what to look for. Treatment providers know a lot about the process and can explain things you might not be aware of. They can discuss available options and connect you with potential programs. To learn more about the treatment process, contact a treatment provider for free right now.
Get 24/7 help and call our addiction hotline to find the perfect rehab for you—call 844-575-6602.
Rehab Effectiveness | FAQs
How effective is rehab in treating addiction compared to other methods?
Rehab can be very effective because it offers a structured environment with medical and emotional support. It often combines different treatments, making it more comprehensive than other methods.
How long does it take to see the effects of rehab?
The effects of rehab can vary, but some people start feeling better within a few weeks. Full recovery can take several months or longer, depending on the person.
Are there certain kinds of rehabs that are more effective than others?
Some rehabs are more effective because they offer personalized treatment plans, experienced staff, and aftercare programs. Inpatient rehabs, where you stay at the facility, provide more intensive support in a setting tailored to promote recovery.
Call Addiction Hotline for Addiction & Rehab Resources
One of the most effective ways to learn about addiction and recovery is to call a substance abuse hotline. You will speak in confidence with someone committed to getting you the help you need.
Addiction Hotline staff can connect you with medical detox centers in California. These centers streamline drug and alcohol withdrawal by providing 24/7 care and medications.
We can also help you find inpatient and outpatient rehabs where you can deal with the mental side of addiction and learn healthy coping skills. Hotline staff can also put you in touch with local peer support groups if you need extra help.
Call our substance abuse hotline and get effective rehab at 844-575-6602.