Drug abuse in America is epidemic. Did you know that drug related expenses cost the U.S government about $181 billion dollars a year? It is a health care crisis that is costing not only money, but the lives of innocent people. Addiction can take everything away.
Thousands of people each year seek a new start in residential treatment programs. If you are soon to be one of these people, you may have a lot of questions. Let us take a closer look at what someone can expect at a residential treatment program like Vista Taos Drug Abuse Treatment Center in Taos, New Mexico. Remember that not all treatment centers are created equally and to always do your research before entering any facility or program.
The entire purpose for entering a residential treatment program is to get sober. You will find a host of services at these facilities that work toward helping you battle your addiction. Upon your entry into the clinic, an assessment will be completed of your current alcohol and/or drug use, along with a review of your emotional-wellbeing and medical history. Your family and any legal issues will also be evaluated. You will speak with a counselor to receive an overview of the program and the services that you will be receiving and participating in, and how your individual needs can best be met by the center.
It is important to be honest about your emotional state. Did you know that many who suffer from addiction are simply doing so to self-medicate? Some people may not even know they are self-medicating because they have repressed their emotions. These may come out later during the treatment process. But yes, many people enter rehab and are given a ‘dual diagnosis.’ That is why knowing you will get drug abuse counseling is just as important as knowing that emotional and mental help assistance is also available by licensed staff members should you need it.
You may need detoxification services when you arrive at the drug abuse treatment center. Medications may be ordered by the physician to assist with the process; however staff closely monitors patients in detoxification. Under proper care, your detoxification process at the drug abuse treatment center will be effective and as comfortable as possible. Medications and/or natural remedies like massage and acupuncture help ease discomfort, anxiety and sleep problems that are commonly associated with the overall detoxification process.
A residential treatment program is typically very structured in nature and maintaining a regular schedule is important. Routines and activities keep the mind busy during the healing process. It is all for the greater good. The treatment program will educate the patient on how to avoid relapse in the future and work on behavioral issues and strategies. An individualized family program is critical to address the impact of the addiction on the family as well helping other family members identify their role in Family therapy may be necessary if the patient’s addiction caused problems with their loved ones. Throughout treatment, patients are taught that there is no simple cure to their addiction, only treatment and the importance of ongoing support. It is a lifelong battle that can be overcome by perseverance and a strong support network.
Regardless of which residential treatment program you choose, you will be introduced to a new way of life. When you enter rehabilitation at a drug abuse treatment center, there will be moments where your insecurities and anxieties may get the best of you. These are all normal feelings that need to be worked on during treatment. Stick to the program, build your support system and always be honest with your drug counselors and others in your support system, their only intention is to help you remain sober. Never underestimate the importance of an extended care or outpatient program after primary residential treatment. Maintain your support system after primary treatment and continue therapy for as long as possible for continued sobriety. Remember: a residential treatment program is like what chemotherapy is to cancer. There is no cure for your addiction but there is hope with education, therapy and a solid support system.
