Substance Abuse Rehab Patient

A Day in the Life of a Substance Abuse Rehab Patient

For those who have never been to rehab, the process can seem daunting. However, drug rehabilitation centers can offer a place of self-discovery. Clients learn more about themselves during detox and therapy sessions. Aftercare planning is a way to ensure that clients continue their journey of healing and rehabilitation long after they have finished with their drug rehab program. Along the way, it is important that clients have a support system by their side, including a substance abuse counselor.

Patients may find it difficult to go to rehab. Many people are eager to get the help they need, but fear of the unknown can prevent them from seeking it. Every person’s experience at a drug rehabilitation center is different, but here are the basics of a day in the life of a substance abuse rehab patient.

Detox Programs in Substance Abuse Rehab

The first step in addiction treatment is often a detox program. A team of nurses closely monitors withdrawal to make sure patients feel as comfortable as possible, even if they experience uncomfortable symptoms. Detox is the process by which the body gets rid of harmful substances like drugs and alcohol. 

To keep patients safe and comfortable during detox, most drug rehab centers offer a range of therapies to ease the pain of withdrawing from the addiction, known as a medically-supervised detoxification program. Some of these therapies include drug tapering, pain medication, and holistic approaches like yoga, acupuncture, and adventure therapies.

Substance Abuse Rehab Patient

Although detox is an essential step in addiction treatment, it can also be deadly and dangerous for some patients if withdrawal symptoms aren’t treated promptly and effectively. Patients who are addicted to alcohol, opioids, benzodiazepines, or barbiturates can be particularly at risk. These drugs can have a greater effect on the body than stimulants and hallucinogens.

Clients who have been addicted to any of these drugs will be treated during detox for withdrawal symptoms, such as:

  • Aching muscles
  • Insomnia
  • Intense mood swings
  • Hallucinations
  • Seizures
  • Stomachaches
  • Depression
  • Anxiety

The duration and severity of withdrawal symptoms will vary for each client depending on how long they have been addicted, what combination they used, and when they last drank or consumed drugs. Although withdrawal can be painful, it is necessary as part of addiction recovery.

Therapy Throughout Substance Abuse Rehab

Most drug rehab programs include therapy as an important part of their recovery programs. It helps patients to rediscover their true self without the use of drugs or alcohol and helps them to manage their lives without those abusive substances.

Individual Therapy

While enrolled in an Inpatient Program, clients will have one-on-one therapy sessions. Patients will see their therapist at least once per week during their time in the program to help them make progress on their recovery journey. A therapist will evaluate the motivations of the patient and help them set realistic recovery goals.

The following are some of the most important goals that therapists share with clients when they work in drug rehab programs:

  • Learning coping mechanisms
  • Drugs no longer being an option to manage emotions
  • Strengthening their support system
  • Concentrating on a healthy way of living
  • Daily self-love

A therapist will help their patient overcome childhood traumas and self-justifications that lead to their addiction. Together, the therapist and patient will work to transform their negative thoughts and behaviors into healthier ones.

Substance Abuse Rehab Patient

Group Therapy

Addiction is a disease that causes isolation. Group therapy encourages participants to connect and engage with their peers in order to make positive changes. Patients will learn skills together to live a life of recovery through group therapy. The group sessions will be led by a counselor or therapist who can help clients interact with each other and use their new coping skills in everyday situations.

Group therapy is a great way to build relationships with others. These relationships can be a support system throughout addiction treatment. Patients often stay in touch with one another after they have completed their treatment. For those in recovery, peer support is a huge benefit.

Substance Abuse Rehab

Aftercare Planning In Substance Abuse Rehab

After a client has completed their time in an inpatient drug rehabilitation program, they will be able to create an aftercare plan with their case manager.

Although treatment can give clients the tools they need to manage their illness, it is not a cure for addiction. To ensure clients’ long-term recovery, addiction must be managed throughout the treatment process. Many patients will return to unhealthy environments once they have completed the program and can often relapse due to stressors from the outside stresses and a lack of support. A plan for success in a drug rehabilitation center is an important first step to sobriety.

Clients might include a combination of these routines in their aftercare plan.

  • Techniques to prevent relapsing
  • Scheduling support group meetings
  • Attending outpatient appointments regularly
  • Planning living arrangements in sober living or transitional housing
  • One-on-one therapy sessions
  • Creating a daily exercise routine

Although no one can foresee what might happen after a client leaves treatment, it is possible to create an aftercare plan that will keep them involved in their recovery. A person is less likely to relapse if they actively pursue their recovery after completing a drug rehab program.

Substance Abuse Treatment Programs that Promote Healing & Self-Discovery

Drug rehab centers are the best way for addicts who have lost their former selves to rediscover who they truly are without their addictions getting in the way. In drug addiction treatment, clients will learn how to deal with emotions through therapy and detox. Individuals in treatment will see the potential for their lives outside of treatment as they put these tools to good use.

Some popular holistic treatment methods that promote healing & self-discovery are:

  • Outdoor Behavioral Care
  • Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT).
  • Yoga
  • Music therapy
  • Regularly exercising
  • Eating healthy 
  • Meditation sessions
  • Art therapy

Clients who engage in these types of treatment for addiction gain a little of their own self-worth. The process of healing and self-discovery should not end with treatment. Clients should continue to engage in activities after they have completed an inpatient drug rehabilitation program. This will allow them to learn new things and help with their recovery throughout their lives.

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