Before considering the option of entering a rehab, consider the nature of your substance-related problem and whether rehab is a good solution. Thousands of trained professionals are available to help you decide if rehab is the right treatment for you. Once you've made the decision to enter rehab, you'll need to choose the right type of facility. Listed below are the benefits of inpatient rehab versus sober living. Read on to learn more about each of these programs.

Addiction is a chronic, relapsing brain disorder

While most people think addiction is a mental health disorder that cannot be cured, the reality is quite different. This chronic, relapsing disorder is a chronic brain disorder that requires treatment throughout one's lifetime. Addiction treatment must address the physical, mental, and social problems that may have contributed to the substance abuse. In many cases, substance abuse begins with a decision, such as obtaining a prescription for alcohol or prescription drugs, which then leads to addiction.

A thorough understanding of how the brain influences drug and alcohol addiction can help break down the stigma associated with addiction. According to the NIDA, addiction is a chronic, relapsing brain disorder. It's characterized by compulsive drug seeking and use despite the negative consequences of these behaviors. By focusing on the brain's involvement in the disease, we can better treat patients and prevent negative attitudes toward people with addiction.

Treatment involves counseling and therapy

Addiction can be a life-altering experience that leaves individuals with mental and physical consequences. Drug rehab treatment combines medical care with psychotherapy to address these issues. Patients develop new coping skills and develop new insights into addiction. Counseling and therapy helps patients learn to control their behavior and understand their addiction. The goal of the therapy is to prevent the relapse of a patient or family member, and also addresses mental health issues in the family.

In addition to providing counseling and therapy to patients, drug rehab treatment programs provide a comprehensive physical exam and health monitoring. A patient may also require services from child welfare services, housing, and transportation. Treatment providers arrange for and coordinate these services. They may also help the individual access services that can prevent and respond to situations of domestic violence. Drug rehab treatment also includes case management services. As part of a patient's recovery, they will work with other medical professionals and social service agencies to make sure they have access to the best possible health care.

Medication can help

Medication can be used to treat withdrawal symptoms during a drug rehab program. Various medications can help patients manage symptoms of long-term withdrawal from drugs or alcohol. Behavioral counseling can help the recovering addict identify triggers and develop healthier coping mechanisms. Medication may also be prescribed to ease withdrawal symptoms, prevent relapse, and treat co-occurring mental health issues. Patients may also be prescribed medication during detoxification to treat withdrawal symptoms and mental health conditions. Aftercare programs provide ongoing support for the recovery process, including ongoing treatment and ongoing medication.

Medications aren't a "miracle cure" for addiction, but they can be a useful aid during rehabilitation. While they aren't a miracle cure, these treatments can help the recovering addict manage the withdrawal symptoms and improve his or her chances of success. It's important to remember that medication can't eliminate the physical cause of addiction, but it can certainly improve one's chances of recovering.

Sober living is an alternative to inpatient rehab

Sober living is different from residential treatment centers. Although sober living facilities may have strict curfew rules, residents are allowed to come and go during the day to attend meetings, work, doctor's appointments, or even visit family. Residents of sober living homes are responsible for their own recovery. This means that they must be prepared and committed to their recovery. If the residents are not ready and committed, they could harm the recovery process.

A more intensive treatment program than sober living is available in some states. Some sober living programs are integrated with intensive outpatient programs. These programs provide a therapy plan for recovering addicts outside the treatment facility. Other SLHs offer integrated IOP, which combines long-term support and clinical therapy. Some SLHs also include a psychiatric treatment program. These programs are sometimes referred to as "next steps."

Outpatient treatment is more effective than inpatient treatment

Compared to inpatient drug rehab treatment, outpatient care is less costly and flexible. Patients can go to therapy sessions during the daytime and continue living at home, work, or go to school. However, outpatient treatment is not for everyone. Addiction is a disease that can lead to physical disabilities and even death. Without treatment, overcoming addiction is difficult. Outpatient treatment can help those who fear relapse.

Unlike inpatient care, outpatient treatment does not require a patient to stay at the rehab facility throughout the duration of the program. Instead, the patient can continue to do other activities and meet with counselors. Patients also get one-on-one attention from a counselor and participate in group meetings. This type of treatment is harder on people with unpredictable schedules. Nonetheless, outpatient care is still effective.