An alcohol rehab program can help you or a loved one get sober. It can also address underlying mental health issues. However, it is important to know what to expect before attending treatment.
There are many different types of rehab programs, and they all vary in length. Some are more intensive than others. But most are based on a thorough assessment of your needs, including medical and family history.
Medically supervised treatment
In the case of Alcohol rehab, a medically supervised treatment plan is often recommended. This level of care is more intensive than standard outpatient treatment and involves staying in a rehab facility as well as attending therapy sessions and support groups. These programs can be as short as a few days or a couple weeks.
This level of care typically begins with a detox program that focuses on safely removing the substance from your body. You will be under the care of physicians, nurses, therapists and dieticians who will monitor you and your symptoms to ensure that you stay as comfortable as possible.
This type of treatment can reveal underlying health issues that you may not be aware of. These conditions can include Hepatitis and other ailments.
Group therapy
Group therapy as part of an Alcohol rehab program helps people connect with others in a similar situation. It can help people feel more connected to their recovery and improve self-esteem. It can also provide encouragement to keep on track with their recovery goals. However, some people may not do well in group therapy. Personality clashes, outside obligations, and stressors can cause problems in a group setting.
One of the most important benefits of group therapy is that it teaches participants that they are not alone. Many addictions stem from feelings of shame and isolation, and many people struggle with the stigma of being a “drug user.” It can be liberating to realize that you are not the only person dealing with these struggles.
Individual therapy
Individual therapy is a crucial part of the Alcohol rehab program. It gives individuals the opportunity to work one-on-one with a professional therapist to address issues, thoughts and emotions that contributed to their substance abuse. These sessions allow people to learn more about their addiction and gain tools for long-term recovery.
This form of therapy can include a variety of therapeutic techniques, including dialectical behavioral therapy (DBT), psychodynamic therapy and family systems therapy. Each approach is designed to help people become more mindful of their thoughts and feelings and develop healthy coping skills.
A treatment program should also include peer support groups like alcoholics anonymous. These can help people develop a network of sober friends and build vital coping skills that will prepare them for long-term recovery.
Family therapy
A good alcohol rehab program includes family therapy sessions to help you and your loved ones understand your addiction. These sessions will teach you how to communicate in a respectful and productive manner. Your therapist will also teach you how to identify and resolve conflicts.
In addition to family therapy, a comprehensive alcohol rehab program will include individual and group therapy sessions, education, and support groups. You may also participate in specialized treatment programs that are tailored to specific populations or careers. These programs can be a great option for those with limited resources or who are unable to travel long distances.
These treatments focus on addressing the root causes of your alcohol use disorder and teach you healthy ways to cope with stress, conflict, and negative emotions. They also encourage self-care, which can easily fall by the wayside when a loved one is dealing with substance abuse.
Counseling
The first step in an Alcohol rehab program is recognizing the problem. Some people recognize their drinking problems on their own, but others need to be encouraged by loved ones to seek treatment. Often, Alcohol rehab programs are recommended by primary care physicians or mental health professionals. ADAA also publishes resources about treatment and a directory of therapists who specialize in alcoholism.
Alcohol rehabilitation programs typically involve group therapy sessions, individual counseling sessions, and educational programs about alcohol abuse and addiction. These are designed to help people learn about underlying issues that contribute to drinking problems and develop coping skills to avoid relapse after treatment. These counseling sessions can be done in person or through video conference. Patients can also connect with other recovering alcohol addicts to form a support network that helps them resist the temptation to drink again.
