Drug or alcohol abuse affects every facet of a user’s life, and it can leave those individuals with host of financial, personal and legal problems. While some addicts attempt to stop their drug addiction in its tracks by going cold turkey, they may enjoy greater success by enrolling themselves in an alcohol or benxo detox program in California or another area. While some detention centers, including one in Ohio, have started offering detox and treatment as a part of a prisoner’s sentence, taking steps toward recovery before going to jail is undoubtedly a better idea.
Taking Steps Toward Recovery
Although many substance abusers do not see that their drug or alcohol use is a problem until it is too late, those who suspect that they are becoming dependent on their substance of choice may want to explore recovery options before the problem gets worse. Whether addicts opt to attend a 12-step program, seek counseling from clergy or a therapist or strive to quit with just the support of family, taking early steps toward the resolution of a substance abuse problem may save them years of anguish.
Realizing it is Time for Rehab
There are no easy answers when it comes to determining whether or not rehab is the right choice, and the events that lead to treatment may vary vastly between individuals. It is important to remember that physical addiction is not necessarily required to attend rehab. While each addict may have a different “rock bottom” that drives them toward rehab, some of the commonalities shared by those who attend include an inability to stop using despite the desire to quit, problems at home or on the job and relationships that have been damaged by substance abuse. Although harming oneself or others, getting arrested or lying about drug or alcohol use are other very typical catalysts for rehab, it is important to remember that each person and their reasons for beginning a treatment program are different.
A Day in the Life of an Inpatient Rehab Client
Many people hold off on starting a drug and alcohol rehab program simply because they are nervous about what their inpatient treatment will entail. While every rehab center operates a little differently, many follow a general pattern throughout the day, beginning with breakfast and recovery meetings; these meetings often entail an in-depth exploration of the issues surrounding addiction. While some patients will be put off by the idea of getting up early after years of staying up late, rising with the sun is one of those changes that allow clients to completely redefine their lifestyle. In short, inpatient drug or alcohol recovery programs make good use of the statement, “early to bed and early to rise makes a man healthy, wealthy and wise.”
After eating a healthy lunch, many inpatient rehab clients attend therapy with an in-house counselor who will help the individual better understand his or her addiction, the problems that caused it and the steps that may be necessary for recovery. While such therapy may leave a client feeling emotionally exposed, there will be plenty of people nearby who understand what he or she is going through. Afternoon activities may also include both therapeutic and typical recreation, including dance or art therapy, exercise programs or arts and crafts.
Evenings in an inpatient rehab program often involve additional 12-step meetings and other activities after clients enjoy a healthy dinner. At first, meal times may seem strange to patients; after all, serious addiction occasionally keeps substance abusers from eating properly for a variety of reasons. Rehab programs also typically require a specific time that patients must go to bed; sound, healthy sleep is an important part of recovery, after all.
Addiction has Lifelong Consequences
Active addiction often leaves the sufferer with financial issues, family problems and health conditions that would not have existed without significant drug or alcohol use. However, those who choose to put the effort into understanding their substance abuse problem and the steps that are necessary for leading a happier, healthier lifestyle may find rehab is an effective way of controlling their compulsion to drink or use drugs. Regardless of where an individual falls on the scale of addiction, getting help is one of the most valuable things that he or she can do to live a sober lifestyle. While rehab will be a completely new experience to many clients, avoiding the problems associated with addiction makes the time and effort required for recovery worth it.
