Often, people who are addicted to drugs may not realize they have a problem with addiction. Drug addiction can become the main focus of a persons life very quickly; quitting may not be an option by the time they realize they are addicted to drugs. Realizing you have a problem and asking for help is the first step to recovering from drug addiction.



You can contact your personal doctor or look in the local phone book to find help for your drug addiction. You will then be assessed for drug addiction and referred to a drug rehab program. There are many rehab options, including residential or inpatient rehab, outpatient rehab and alternative rehab programs.

Treatment in a Drug Rehab Program

Typical treatment in a drug rehab will include many types of therapy and counseling, including:

1) Personal Therapy, designed to promote goal planning and identify mental disorders, 2) Group therapy, designed to promote personal growth, 3) Martial and Family Therapy, which may help resolve family conflicts

You will also typically receive classes to re-learn practical skills, suck as maintaining your health through proper nutrition. Depending on the type of program you attend, these basic services are supplemented with other services.

Residential Drug Rehab Program

Residential drug rehab programs are often the most successful type of treatment for drug addiction. Residential drug rehab programs are more successful for a number of reasons, including the isolation from outside stress and circumstances as well as being more comprehensive and personalized than other types of treatments.

Residential treatment programs may last for a few weeks up to a few months, however some residential treatment centers may recommend that you attend extended treatment that could lasts up to two years.

Residential drug rehab programs offer some financial assistance, including free or low-cost treatment, to patients.

Residential drug rehab programs also offer comprehensive medical care. Medical care is often important during the detoxification period, when the body is overcoming its physical dependence on drugs.

Outpatient Drug Rehab Programs

Outpatient rehab programs are often more successful for people who have short term, moderate addictions, as well as an alternative to residential rehab for those who have full-time jobs or small children they need to care for.

Outpatient drug rehab programs are typically less intensive than residential drug rehab programs, but offer many of the same services, such as therapy, medical care and teaching re-socialization skills.

Alternative Drug Rehab Programs

There are many alternative drug rehab programs, including Christian drug rehab and twelve step alternative programs, as well as drug rehab programs that emphasize holistic care.

Holistic drug rehab programs focus on balancing the mind, body and spirit and utilize all available resources to aid your recovery. Holistic drug rehab programs use acupuncture, yoga, and medical services, plus they regularly incorporate 12-step programs within their addiction recovery methods.

Deciding which treatment plan is best for you may be confusing, so don't be afraid to ask for help. Your family, your doctor or therapist usually will assist you in deciding which drug abuse program will best fit your personal needs and situation.

Copyright (c) 2008 Bob Simons