If you are reading this, then chances are you are ready to take that giant leap into a sober, fulfilling life. Congratulations! You didn’t plan to become addicted to alcohol, and you are eager to change your life around. Of course, you’re also here because you are curious about this new, exciting stage in your life. What happens in alcohol rehab once you commit to a program? What can you expect to learn? What is the process like from start to finish? These questions and more are normal when you haven’t been in rehab before, so let’s read on to learn the answers.
The First Step- Intake
The intake process will begin when the addict or family member first contacts the alcohol facility, usually by phone or personal visit. This first step will be an opportunity for the center to develop a relationship between the client and the family that supports them. The main goals of the intake process include:
Eligibility- The intake interview will determine whether the potential patient meets any federal or state regulations they may need if they are receiving care through an outside program.
Crisis intervention- Some patients will meet the requirements for immediate assistance if they are in severe withdrawal, are suicidal or are the victim of domestic abuse.
Financial requirements- Any financial matters will be settled before the patient begins the rehab program. Personnel will go over insurance coverage or how treatment will be paid for.
Mental health conditions- Patients will talk with on-site medical personnel to discuss any underlying mental health conditions that will need to be addressed during treatment.
The Second Step- Detox
Once you are officially a patient of alcohol rehab, you will go through the detox process if you are still withdrawing from alcohol. The process will be different depending on the severity of your illness.
If you are suffering from severe withdrawal symptoms, you may be placed in an inpatient hospital setting to get the help you need. You’ll be monitored day and night by doctors and other medical support staff while you go through withdrawal. If you have other medical issues, such as cirrhosis of the liver, you’ll be treated for them as well. In many cases, your doctor will prescribe medication that will help you with the mental and physical side effects of withdrawal.
If you are not as heavily addicted to alcohol, you may be able to participate in a residential detox program within the very center you will be staying at. The facility will also have qualified medical staff on board who will make sure you are getting the proper treatment during detox. Again, you may or may not be prescribed medication for your withdrawal symptoms.
The Third Step- Therapy
Therapy sessions will usually begin the day you check into the rehab. They will involve a combination of private, group, and family therapy. During private therapy, your counselor will talk to you about the reasons why you turn to alcohol or drugs. You’ll participate in behavioral therapy sessions to learn how to recognize potential triggers and how to change your mindset. If you have an underlying mental health condition, these private therapy sessions will be the time to talk about your concerns.
Group therapy sessions are also an important part of the rehab process. While it isn’t always easy for some patients to open up to strangers, most soon develop strong bonds with the other residents of a rehab center. Another part of alcohol rehab may be family therapy sessions. However, these sessions generally won’t occur until a few weeks into the program.
The Fourth Step- Continuing Care
Rehab will not end the second you walk out of the program. Your therapist will help you find continuing care that will help you maintain your sobriety once you get back to your normal, everyday lifestyle. This often includes a stay in a sober living home directly after the rehab program if you need additional structure. Your therapist will also make sure you know where you can go to recovery groups, such as Alcoholics Anonymous or other 12-step meetings. Recovery efforts will go on after you leave the facility, so take the time to scout out the best places to go when you need additional support and help.
We’re Here to Help
When you’re ready to get the assistance that you need for your addiction, we’re here to help. Call today at 833-820-2922 to find out how our facility has changed the lives of many men and women struggling with addiction.