Drug & Alcohol Rehab Admissions and Intake Process

When you or a loved one is struggling with drug or alcohol problems, you shouldn’t have to deal with a confusing process to get into rehab. If you’re unsure how to start getting help for a substance abuse issue, you’re in the right place. Here, we’ll provide all the information needed to make the rehab admissions process more manageable.

What is a Drug and Alcohol Rehab Center?

A drug and alcohol rehab center is where people get help and treatment for their addiction to drugs or alcohol. These rehabilitation centers provide a structured environment where individuals can receive medical, psychological, and social support to overcome substance use disorder (SUD).

The treatment programs at these centers may include detoxification, counseling, therapy, education, and support groups to help individuals recover from substance abuse and learn how to live a drug-free or alcohol-free life. Rehab centers can vary in approach and the types of services they offer, but their primary goal is to help people break free from the cycle of addiction and achieve lasting recovery.

What Does Rehabilitation Admissions or Intake Mean?

Rehabilitation admissions or intake refers to the treatment program enrollment or admitting yourself or a loved one into a rehabilitation program. You’ll meet with professionals during the rehabilitation facility intake, where you’ll provide essential information, undergo assessments, and complete necessary rehab intake documentation to ensure a smooth transition into the program.

The rehab intake procedure helps the facility gather information about your or your loved one’s medical history, substance abuse patterns, and personal goals for treatment. This information creates a customized treatment plan tailored to your needs. The rehab admissions process or intake aims to ensure you receive the most appropriate and effective care to address your specific challenges and begin the journey toward recovery.

What is The Inpatient Rehab Admissions and Intake Process?

The inpatient rehab admissions process is the essential journey you’ll undertake when seeking treatment center admission at a residential facility. It begins with an initial rehab assessment process to determine the need for inpatient rehab, followed by insurance verification or payment arrangements. A personalized treatment plan and an orientation process for the newly admitted are then crafted.

Detoxification, if required, is managed safely under medical supervision. During your stay, you’ll participate in therapies, counseling, and educational programs to address your addiction and access recovery tools. An aftercare plan is developed to support your transition back into daily life. Admitting to rehab creates a structured, comprehensive environment for those seeking recovery from addiction.

What is The Outpatient Rehab Admissions and Intake Process?

The outpatient rehab admissions process involves several steps to ensure you receive tailored treatment for substance abuse or behavioral health issues, beginning with initial contact and a rehab admission assessment to gather essential information about your history and needs. Once admitted, an evaluation is conducted to gauge the severity of your addiction and design a goal-oriented personalized treatment plan.

You’ll receive an orientation to the program and its structure, followed by therapy sessions and activities as outlined in your plan. Your progress will be monitored throughout your journey, and adjustments will be made as needed to provide the best support and outcomes. This comprehensive process ensures that your outpatient rehab experience is customized to your unique circumstances and focused on your recovery.

What is The Admissions and Intake Process for Drug Rehab?

The admission and intake drug rehab process begins with initial contact, where you or your loved one reach out to the chosen facility. Upon expressing interest, a dedicated admissions coordinator conducts a rehab intake interview, gathering crucial information about substance abuse history, mental health, and medical background, which is vital for creating a personalized treatment plan.

Rehab centers typically verify insurance coverage, offering details about potential expenses and available financial support options. Completing admission paperwork for rehab, like consent and financial agreements, is necessary. Upon entering the facility, you undergo comprehensive medical and psychosocial assessments to address physical and mental health. A team of professionals then collaborates to design a tailored treatment plan, encompassing therapies and services that match your specific needs and goals.

After completing the drug rehab admissions process, you’re oriented to the program’s guidelines, policies, and structure, ensuring you’re well-informed about available therapeutic activities, support groups, and the resources needed for a successful recovery journey. The overall aim is to create a healing environment that equips you with the tools for long-term success.

What is The Admissions and Intake Process for Alcohol Rehab?

The alcohol rehab process for admissions and intake is similar to drug rehab, but it addresses specific aspects of alcohol addiction. The primary objective is to gather crucial information about your or your loved one’s alcohol use, treatment requirements, and overall health, all of which will inform a personalized treatment plan.

The alcohol rehab admissions process starts with completing admissions forms for rehab and other necessary paperwork. Subsequently, a comprehensive medical evaluation is conducted to assess your physical well-being, identify any alcohol-related health conditions, and determine if medication is needed. This rehab evaluation process may include physical exams, lab tests, and other assessments.

You’ll also undergo a psychosocial assessment to evaluate your emotional and mental well-being, aiding the treatment team in understanding your mental health status and identifying any co-occurring disorders. After you’ve met all rehab admission requirements, you’ll become familiar with rehab admission guidelines, policies, program structure, various treatment methods, therapeutic activities, and available support groups.

What is The Admissions and Intake Process for Dual Diagnosis Rehab?

Admission into a dual-diagnosis rehab program, designed for individuals with both substance use disorders and underlying mental health conditions, closely resembles the process in traditional substance abuse rehab. However, it involves additional assessments and considerations. The admission process for dual diagnosis rehab generally includes the following steps:

• Initial contact: You or your loved one initiates contact with the dual diagnosis rehab facility
• Pre-Rehab Admission Criteria Evaluation: A rehab admission coordinator assesses your substance abuse history, mental health symptoms, and previous treatment experiences
• Verification of insurance or payment options: The facility verifies insurance and discusses payment options
• Pre-admission paperwork: Completion of necessary rehab intake documentation
• Comprehensive rehab admission assessment: A thorough evaluation of your mental health and substance abuse conditions
• Treatment planning: A personalized treatment plan is developed to address your unique needs and goals
• Orientation and program introduction: An orientation to the facility’s guidelines, policies, and program structure, along with information about available treatment options
• Ongoing assessment and adjustment: Continuous monitoring of your progress and adjustments to the treatment plan as needed to address new challenges or needs

What is The Initial Intake Assessment Process for Rehab Treatment?

The initial assessment process for rehab treatment is a critical step when seeking addiction treatment, ensuring that you or your loved one receives the utmost effective care. This comprehensive evaluation delves into physical and psychological health, medical history, and substance use history to inform the development of a personalized treatment plan.

While specific rehab admission procedures and the rehab admission timeline can vary depending on the facility and treatment type, the general process involves the following steps for successful outcomes:

• Rehab intake interview: Initiated by a healthcare professional, this interview allows you to share concerns, provide background information, and express your treatment goals
• Medical history: You’ll provide a detailed medical history, including current and past medical conditions, medications, allergies, and previous treatments, helping assess your overall health and potential medical considerations during treatmen
• Substance use history: Questions about the substances you’ve used, frequency, duration, past quit attempts, and related consequences are essential when seeking help for substance abuse
• Mental health assessment: Screening for co-occurring mental health disorders like depression and anxiety
• Psychosocial assessment: Evaluating how social and environmental factors may influence your treatment and recovery, including family dynamics, support systems, employment, education, legal issues, and more
• Treatment goals and preferences: Openly discussing your goals, expectations, and preferences to align the treatment plan with your specific needs
• Assessment tools and questionnaires: Standardized assessments and questionnaires may be used to gather data about your condition, symptom severity, functional abilities, and overall quality of life
• Collaborative treatment planning: The treatment team collaboratively designs an individualized plan encompassing therapy, interventions, and services tailored to your specific needs and goals

Are There Ongoing Evaluations During the Rehab Process?

Regular assessments play a crucial role in the rehabilitation journey. They occur throughout your treatment, serving as valuable checkpoints to gauge your progress, adjust your treatment plan, and ensure that the chosen interventions and therapies effectively address your unique needs.

The frequency and nature of these assessments can vary based on factors like your individual requirements, the type of rehab program, and the treatment duration. These ongoing evaluations are instrumental in maintaining the treatment’s effectiveness and relevance as you recover. The treatment team can provide the most fitting, personalized care to support your long-term recovery by continually monitoring your progress and making necessary adaptations.

These recurring assessments typically include progress reviews, feedback sessions, the involvement of family and support systems, self-assessments, and behavioral monitoring, among other methods.

Does My Insurance Cover the Full Rehabilitation Process?

Rehabilitation insurance coverage varies based on factors like your plan type and whether you choose in-network or out-of-network providers. Some plans require prior authorization and evaluation of medical necessity, necessitating documentation from healthcare professionals. Restrictions may apply to treatment duration and types.

Even with insurance, you might have co-pays, deductibles, and out-of-pocket costs, making it important to understand your policy’s cost-sharing requirements and potential financial responsibilities. Call (844) 326-4514 to check your insurance coverage details now.

How Do I Get Admitted to Rehab?

Admission criteria for rehab can vary between treatment centers. To begin the process, you must recognize your need for assistance and find a facility that aligns with your requirements and budget. Reach out to the facility, fulfill the required paperwork, and undergo an evaluation to formulate a customized treatment plan. Familiarize yourself with the facility’s guidelines and prerequisites before enrolling.

Taking the step to seek help requires courage. Honesty and proactivity during the rehab admissions process and after increase your likelihood of achieving a successful recovery. Contact our compassionate staff at (844) 326-4514 for additional information.

Rehab Center in Massachusetts

We’re here to assist you every step of the way to help you achieve lasting sobriety. Our commitment is to establish a strong base for addiction recovery and enhance the overall well-being of individuals struggling with substance abuse and mental health issues. Our holistic approach integrates the latest clinical methods and evidence-based techniques in the field of addiction.

We’re pleased to accept insurance. For further information or to explore our widely recognized treatment facility in New England, please reach out to us at (844) 326-4514 or visit us in person:

• Massachusetts: 61 Brown Street Haverhill, MA 01830

Rehab Center in New Jersey

We are here to support you as you progress from detox to outpatient care, striving for true sobriety. Our mission is to lay a solid foundation for recovery and improve the overall well-being of individuals facing substance abuse and mental health challenges. Our comprehensive approach draws on established clinical methods and evidence-based practices in the field of addiction.

Contact us or visit our New Jersey-based treatment facility, one of our reputable rehab centers that accept insurance:

• New Jersey (Union): 1000 Galloping Hill Road Union, NJ 07083

Rehab Center in Massachusetts

Serenity at Summit is a reputable addiction treatment center that provides comprehensive and effective care for individuals dealing with substance abuse and co-occurring mental health issues. Our modern, spacious facilities offer an ideal setting for you or your loved one to commence your journey toward recovery from drug or alcohol addiction in a comfortable, discreet manner.

To discover additional nearby rehabilitation centers, consider the following options:

• Conduct online research by using search engines or addiction treatment directories. Use keywords like “intake rehab near me” or ” drug and alcohol rehabilitation close to me,” followed by your location.
• Reach out to referral helplines, hotlines, and organizations like the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) for a list of the nearest rehab centers conveniently located in your immediate area.
• Seek recommendations and insights from local healthcare professionals specializing in addiction and behavioral health treatment.
• Connect with individuals who have experience with addiction treatment to gather recommendations.
• Read online reviews to assess the quality of care and treatment. Pay attention to treatment programs, staff, amenities, and overall satisfaction feedback.
• Ensure the facility you’re considering is licensed and accredited, validating their adherence to quality standards and ethical practices.
• Consider the rehabilitation center’s proximity to your home, work, or support network. Attending rehabilitation close by may ease some of the apprehension associated with attending treatment, while attending treatment further away may offer added privacy.
• Contact the rehab centers to inquire about services and treatment options offered. Ask about therapies, amenities, the drug and alcohol rehab detox process, and aftercare support, ensuring they align with your needs. Find out if individualized treatment programs are available and if they provide treatment for your specific diagnosis.
• Verify whether the facility accepts your insurance or offers financing options. Ask for a breakdown of the program’s total cost, including additional expenses, to ensure it aligns with your budget and available resources.
• Visit the rehabilitation facility to experience the treatment environment, meet the staff, and ask additional questions.

Rehabilitation Treatment Process and Daily Schedule

The rehabilitation treatment process and the daily routine within a facility typically blend a mix of therapeutic interventions and activities designed to bolster the journey to recovery. Rehab programs usually follow a structured daily plan that includes therapy sessions, educational engagements, support group meetings, wellness activities, and designated personal time for contemplation and relaxation.

The specific activities and timetables may vary based on the rehabilitation center and the individualized treatment plans. The primary aim is to foster a supportive and all-encompassing environment that facilitates effective healing and the pursuit of long-term recovery. Below is a general overview of the rehab treatment process and the daily schedule, along with examples of commonly used evidence-based therapy methods:

• Intake and Assessment collects vital information about your history, patterns of substance abuse, and mental health. This information serves as the foundation for your personalized treatment plan
• Detoxification (if necessary) involves medical supervision to manage withdrawal symptoms safely
• Individual Therapy sessions are conducted with a therapist or counselor. Various therapy methods may be employed, such as:
  • Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) focuses on identifying and modifying negative thought patterns and behaviors linked to addiction
  • Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) is designed to teach skills for emotion management, interpersonal relationships, and mindfulness to address addictive behaviors and co-occurring mental health issues
  • Motivational Interviewing (MI) is a collaborative approach aimed at boosting motivation and readiness for change
  • Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) addresses trauma-related issues contributing to addiction by using bilateral stimulation
• Group Therapy is led by a therapist and may include:
  • Psychoeducational Groups, which provide education on addiction, relapse prevention strategies, coping skills, and life skills
  • Process Groups focus on sharing experiences and emotions while offering mutual support
  • Skills Building Groups teach coping mechanisms for managing triggers, stress, communication, and other crucial aspects of recovery
• Family Therapy involves addressing family dynamics with loved ones to enhance communication and support recovery
• Holistic Therapies incorporate alternative methods, such as art and music therapy, mindfulness and meditation, and physical activities like yoga or hiking to promote overall well-being
• Educational Workshops cover a range of topics, including addiction, coping skills, relapse prevention, and nutrition, all relevant to the recovery journey
• Aftercare Planning develops strategies for sustaining sobriety, continued therapy, participation in support groups, and access to community resources.

Addiction Statistics in Massachusetts

• In 2022, Massachusetts’ opioid-related overdose death rate rose to 33.5 per 100,000 individuals, marking a 2.5% increase compared to 2021 (32.7 per 100,000) and a 9.1% increase compared to the peak recorded in 2016.¹
• Opioid overdose death rates have significantly increased among Black residents than any other racial or ethnic group in Massachusetts.
• Massachusetts is expanding substance use disorder treatment and overdose prevention, including access to naloxone, an overdose-reversal drug.
• Massachusetts had the fourth-highest number of fentanyl reports in the US in 2019, according to the 2020 National Drug Threat Assessment.²
• In 2022, heroin/fentanyl and alcohol accounted for the cause of most substance abuse treatment services among all races, ethnicities, and genders in Massachusetts.³

Addiction Statistics in New Jersey

• As of October 14, 2023, there have been 2,105 suspected drug deaths in New Jersey.⁴
• In 2021, substance abuse treatment providers reported 87,745 treatment admissions and 86,626 discharges to the New Jersey Department of Human Services Division of Mental Health and Addiction Services.⁵
• According to a Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration survey, 6.1% of people in New Jersey reported having a substance use disorder.⁶
• In New Jersey, from 2017 to 2019, an annual average of 10.6% (equivalent to 72,000 individuals) of young people between the ages of 12 and 17 initiated alcohol use for the first time, which aligns closely with both the regional average of 9.5% and the national average of 9.3%.
• From 2011 to 2021, drug overdose death rates in New Jersey have nearly tripled, increasing from 11.3 to 32.4 per 100,000 people.

What to Know Before Admission

When you’ve decided you need treatment for a substance use problem and you’re ready to enter a treatment program, you’ll begin the admissions process. Starting the treatment process may be daunting, especially if this is your first time in an addiction treatment program. However, the admissions process is the first step toward sobriety and freedom from active addiction. Serenity at Summit works to make the admissions process as smooth as possible to get you started on the road to recovery.

Several aspects of treatment will need to be addressed during the admissions process, including planning, packing, and payment. Planning will involve an assessment process, where professionals will help you determine the right care for your needs. Serenity at Summit offers several levels of inpatient care, and the one you begin with will depend on your needs.

Forming a treatment plan is an important step in the process. Planning begins with placement in intensive inpatient treatment, medically monitored inpatient treatment, or residential care. The level of care you need will depend on how severe your addiction is and other mental health issues and medical conditions you may have. You’ll also sit down with a therapist early in treatment to form a recovery plan that is personalized to your needs.

Packing is also an important way to prepare for the admissions process. In an inpatient treatment program, you will need to prepare by packing clothing and other important items you will need throughout your stay. There are, however, items that you shouldn’t bring, and essential items you need will be provided to you.

Payment involves insurance verification and other payment options. This process can be intimidating, especially when it comes to navigating your insurance plan. But we can work with your insurance company to verify coverage for the treatments that you need.

Packing: What to Bring to Treatment

When you enter an inpatient program, it’s a lot like going on a trip. You’ll need to pack clothes and several other items as if you were staying at a hotel. In an inpatient program, the provided amenities will take care of many of your needs, but you’ll need some of your own things, and you’ll want some comforts from home. Here’s a list of important items that you should bring. During the admission process, Serenity at Summit staff can go over the packing list with you to make sure you have everything you’ll need.

What Items Should You Pack?

• Picture ID
• Insurance card
• Prescription card
• Over-the-counter medications (like ibuprofen)
• Credit or debit card (only one)
• Physician, attorney, and emergency contact information
• Weather appropriate clothing for a full week
• Toiletries and personal items
• Reading material that’s appropriate for shared spaces
• Journal
• Cell phone

When you’re packing clothing, it’s important to consider the climate and region you’re staying in. Serenity at Summit’s facilities are in the northeastern United States in New Jersey and Massachusetts. If you are in the region in the fall or winter, you will need warm clothing, especially for your travel day. If you’re staying in the spring or summer, you may still want a light sweater if you tend to get cold in air conditioning.

What Items Shouldn’t You Bring?

It’s important to know that you’ll be attending treatment with other people. You’ll also be sharing space with others and have roommates during residential treatment. For that reason, it’s important to leave items at home that may offend or disturb others. Of course, you should also avoid bringing anything dangerous. That includes things that could jeopardize your sobriety or the sobriety of other clients. Finally, there are some things you won’t need to bring because they will be unnecessary for treatment or they will be provided to you.

Here are some things that you shouldn’t bring:

• Weapons
• Drugs and alcohol
• Computers
• Jewelry
• Other valuables
• Food
• Aerosol products
• Alcohol products
• Perfume
• Mouthwash
• Provocative clothing
• Lewd or inappropriate reading material

While you’re packing, if there’s any doubt about whether something is appropriate for treatment, feel free to call and ask. There may be several common items that you may not think about that should be left at home. For instance, aerosol products are sometimes used to get high, and they may be risky for people going through withdrawal or drug cravings. You may need to opt for roll-on deodorant instead of spray deodorant. Mouthwash and alcohol products should be avoided for similar reasons.

Payment: How Will You Pay for Treatment?

Navigating payment options and finding ways to make treatment more affordable is a significant barrier to treatment for many people. However, Serenity at Summit works to remove cost as an obstacle to the treatment and therapies you need. You can pay for treatment through a self-payment, but Serenity at Summit also accepts coverage from many private insurance companies.

Navigating your insurance plan can be tricky, but most insurance companies offer some coverage for mental health and addiction treatment services, including inpatient treatment. Still, the therapies that are covered and the amount you will pay out of pocket will depend on your specific plan. Like many long-term healthcare options, addiction treatment can be expensive, but it’s worth it for people with progressive substance use disorders.

What Are Your Insurance Options?

Private health insurance is one of the most common ways to make addiction treatment more affordable. Federally funded health insurance programs like Medicare and Medicaid can also help you get treatment, but your options will be limited, and Serenity at Summit currently can’t accept federal insurance options. However, various private insurance companies can help you make treatment more affordable.

In 2010, the Affordable Care Act (ACA) amended the Mental Health Parity and Addiction Equity Act of 2008. The 2008 legislation prevented group health insurers that offered mental and behavioral health services from providing fewer benefits for mental health services than they do for medical services. In 2010, the rule was expanded to include private insurance plans as well. Today, most insurance providers offer coverage for mental health services, and they are required to offer the same amount of care for mental health that they do for medical services.

Still, your insurance plan may not cover certain therapies, and your insurance company may only work with select healthcare providers. Serenity at Summit works with several health insurance companies as an in-network provider. In-network providers are healthcare providers that have a relationship with your insurance company and have negotiated a discount to people with your plan. The process of getting coverage is often much smoother with in-network providers, but that doesn’t mean you can go to an out-of-network facility and still get coverage.

Serenity at Summit is an in-network provider with the following health insurance companies:

• Concern Health
• Saint Barnabas Management Services
• Princeton Healthcare System
• Mental Health Consultants
• Workforce Assistance Program
• Lower Hudson Valley

If you want to know more about treatment costs and insurance coverage, feel free to call at any time. We can help verify your insurance eligibility and walk you through payment options. Even if your insurance company isn’t on the list above, you still may get coverage for treatment at Serenity at Summit. If not, there may be other payment options or other treatment services that can help you get the treatment you need.

What Is Covered By Insurance

You may have questions about insurance coverage, such as, “What therapies and treatment options does health insurance cover?” and “Are you likely to be covered for services offered at Serenity at Summit?” Your coverage will depend on your specific policy. But insurance companies generally gravitate toward some therapeutic approaches over others. Speaking to a representative from your insurance company can help you find out more about your policy’s specifics. You can also call Serenity at Summit to learn more about the treatment options offered.

Insurance companies generally prefer treatment plans that are based on evidence-based approaches. The term “evidence-based” refers to treatment approaches that have been tested in scientific studies and proven to have some efficacy. Evidence-based therapies may not work for every person, but they have shown to be effective enough to be safe and reasonable options. Alternative therapies are another option in the world of mental health and addiction treatment.

Alternative therapies are treatment approaches that haven’t been proven to be effective in scientific studies. They may also be more challenging to implement across a wide range of treatment settings, like equine or nature therapy. Alternative therapies may help some people on an individual basis. For instance, music and art therapy often help people engage with treatment. For that reason, alternative therapies are often used to supplement evidence-based approaches.

However, insurance companies may be less likely to cover treatment programs that are rooted in alternative therapies.

Serenity at Summit uses evidence-based treatment programs to provide high-level care. Our inpatient services fit into the continuum of care that the American Society of Addiction Medicine outlines.

Here are some evidence-based treatment approaches Serenity at Summit offers:

• Medical detoxification
• Intensive inpatient treatment
• Clinically managed inpatient treatment
• Residential care
• Behavioral therapies
• Dual diagnosis
• Aftercare programs

Many insurance companies offer coverage for these services, but it’s important to check your insurance policy to see what is and isn’t covered.

For How Long Am I Covered?

The time you spend in treatment will depend on your needs and your treatment plan. Each person is different, so you may progress through treatment differently than someone else. It’s important that you spend as much time in treatment as you need. Rushing through it could result in limited success in sobriety and a quick relapse. According to the National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA), the ideal minimum treatment duration is 90 days, from high-level care to low-intensity outpatient treatment.

However, your insurance company may have its own idea about when it’s time to move on to the next step in treatment and when your treatment should be complete. But your therapists and case managers at Serenity at Summit can work with your insurance company to advocate for the coverage you need. With your permission, they can present the case as to why your treatment plan is necessary and beneficial for your health.

Private insurance programs and treatment centers will likely offer more robust coverage and treatment duration. Publicly funded insurance programs and addiction treatment tend to be more limited.

Addiction Treatment Frequently Asked Questions

While you’re looking for or preparing to enter addiction treatment, several questions may be on your mind. Entering treatment is intimidating, but having answers to some common questions may help you overcome some stress. Here are some answers to frequently asked questions about addiction treatment.

What Is Addiction Treatment?

Addiction treatment is a complex process designed to lead you to long-lasting sobriety. It does this by addressing physical, mental, and behavioral health issues. Treatment’s main goal is to address a substance use disorder and any underlying mental health issues that contribute to it. Both kinds of issues are often treated at the same time. Addiction treatment may involve several levels of care that are separated by their intensiveness and time commitment. High-level care will offer 24-hour medical or clinical care while lower levels allow you to live at home and attend treatment during the day.

High-level care may include medical treatment or monitoring based on your needs. People at risk of experiencing severe or dangerous withdrawal symptoms may start treatment with medical detoxification. Treatment will likely involve one-on-one therapy sessions as you create and work through a personalized treatment plan. Each week, you’ll meet with your therapist to assess your plan and change it if necessary.

Group therapy sessions are also common in addiction treatment. They help you build social skills and allow you to step out of your own stresses and anxieties to listen to others. In many cases, you can gain insight from your peers.

How Effective Is Addiction Treatment?

This is a common concern for people who are considering addiction treatment. It’s a significant time and monetary commitment, so it’s important that it’s worth it. The primary goal of addiction treatments is to stop the cycle of active addiction. Treatment also seeks to address physical, psychological, and social problems that are often tied to substance use disorders. Addiction treatment would ideally lead to long-term sobriety and a productive life in your family, work, and community.

Does Treatment Accomplish Those Goals?

According to NIDA, research shows that people who enter and remain in treatment for as long as they need improve occupational, social, and psychological functioning. Treatment also decreases the common consequences of addiction, including criminal activity. Still, NIDA also notes that the extent of your individual problems has a significant impact on your treatment success. Treatment, even good treatment, doesn’t guarantee that you will never relapse again.

Addiction relapse rates are around 40% to 60%, which is consistent with other chronic diseases, such as diabetes and hypertension. For many, relapse is a part of the recovery process, but it’s possible to achieve lasting recovery after several relapses. Still, that doesn’t mean a relapse is inevitable.

What If I Relapse?

Relapse is a part of recovery for many people who eventually achieve lasting sobriety. It doesn’t mean all your efforts in addiction treatment have failed. Each moment in treatment that you are not in active addiction is worth something. Plus, time in treatment means gaining valuable insight into your substance use disorder.

Treatment is a chronic disease that can be life-threatening if left untreated. Like other chronic diseases, people with an addiction can relapse, but that doesn’t mean getting help for addiction should be abandoned. For instance, if you seek treatment for hypertension, but your blood pressure goes back up, you wouldn’t abandon your treatment efforts. Instead, you would revisit treatment or seek new treatment options.

How Long Is Treatment?

The length of time you spend in treatment will depend on your needs and your personalized treatment plan. NIDA recommends 90 days for the full continuum of care in addiction treatment, but that doesn’t mean you’ll spend all of that time in one level of care or in inpatient treatment. Medical detox is typically around five to 10 days, while inpatient treatment can last for a few weeks to a month. Outpatient programs can be longer. However, there is no cap on the amount of time you should spend in treatment. If you need more time, you should remain at your level of care.

Will Treatment Cure My Addiction?

There is no known cure for addiction, but addiction can be treated effectively. Still, it’s important to understand that people often deal with substance use disorders for many years, although they may have it under control. Treating addiction involves learning to deal with stressors and cravings without using drugs or alcohol. It may also involve treatment for underlying issues like depression and anxiety.

While treatment can’t cure your addiction, it can lead you to a life that’s free from active addiction and the consequences that come with it severe substance use disorders.