How to Choose the Right Rehab Facility

Substance abuse can make you feel like your life is no longer under your control. You may find your relationships, health, or finances are damaged, some beyond what you can repair on your own. You don't know when everything went astray, but you know you’re addicted to drugs, and need help. Maybe you're the parent or loved one of someone affected by a substance use disorder (SUD), and you want to know how you can help them.

Finding a suitable alcohol or drug treatment center can be challenging. Because choosing a treatment center requires knowing what is ideal for you or a loved one, you will need a guide to help you navigate your search.

Starting the Search

Admittance to a reputable substance addiction treatment center won't happen overnight. Because you will have to wait before you or a loved one is admitted, you have the time to research before picking a treatment center. 

Everyone who suffers from SUD has a different experience and needs a unique treatment plan. This can depend on the substances used, the duration, and the severity of the addiction. So how do you know what type of treatment is needed? Start your search by making an appointment for an evaluation with a doctor, a licensed clinical social worker, an addiction specialist, or a psychiatrist who has experience working with people with SUDs. 

While you or your loved one is undergoing an assessment to determine the level of care necessary, ask questions. This may be a scary or confusing time for everyone involved, so knowing what to expect from addiction treatment can put fears and anxieties at ease. After an evaluation, the specialist will better understand what type of care will guide you or a loved one to recovery.

There are many different kinds of programs for those who seek addiction treatment. For example, you or a loved one may not need inpatient treatment. An intensive outpatient program may be better suited to your lifestyle and the severity of SUD.

Usually, inpatient treatment is recommended for those unable to perform daily activities, stabilize their recovery, need medical-assisted detox, or have had previous attempts to achieve sobriety. Inpatient treatment provides stability and care that are vital to a safe and healthy recovery, while outpatient treatment allows for more flexibility in cases that need less handholding.

Find a Center With the Treatment You Need

After an evaluation, the level of care and services are determined. Often, those with a SUD have co-occurring or underlying mental health disorders. For example, depression or anxiety can co-occur with SUD. Not every treatment center offers mental health services.

A treatment center that provides mental health services and holistic therapies in addition to addiction treatment is a comprehensive care center. Many people thrive in centers that offer the programs and services that will equip them with the life skills and treatment essential to their life after treatment. In addition, a center that guides you to living a happy, safe life is integral to you or a loved one's well-being.

If you or your loved one has an addiction to more serious drugs, they may need to detox under 24-hour care. Detoxing can come with nasty withdrawal symptoms that can be life-threatening. Of course, stopping drinking or using drugs is a healthy choice, but if you want to stop immediately, do not try to quit at home. A center that provides detoxification (detox) services will help guide people through withdrawal symptoms. Some places provide medically assisted detox to ease the process.

Whatever level of care and services you or your loved one feel you need out of the treatment process, make sure you find a treatment facility that provides those things.

Location and Privacy

Proximity to your or your loved one's home may be a consideration when choosing the right treatment center. For some, the idea of being far away is scary, while others may feel better if they're in a place that isn't close to their home. Privacy can also be a deciding factor. Some places are small and intimate, while others can accommodate many clients at once. Make sure you understand a facility's privacy policy and how they maintain confidentiality no matter the size of the operation.

Luxury Doesn't Always Mean Quality

Paying for luxury doesn't ensure the quality of care is a given. With the broad range of centers and the cost of a stay, it pays to dig a little into the care the center provides. Look at reviews and assess the center's website to see if the staff is fully trained and can handle the client's needs and whether the center passes licensing inspections. Reputable centers will welcome your questions and provide the information you request. Just remember that a higher cost of treatment doesn't always equal higher quality care, nor does a more budget-friendly option mean lower quality care.

Look at How Long a Center Has Existed

Experience and time matter. Treatment centers in existence for over five years are more reliable and provide more quality care. You can also do an internet search to find reviews or talk with an addiction specialist about the treatment centers they would recommend.

Stopping Drug or Alcohol Use Is the First Step to a Healthy Life

Finding the right fit for you or a loved one's unique needs is essential to ensure proper care in treatment. The first step is deciding what type and level of care are needed. The next is finding a treatment facility that meets those needs.

At The Edge Treatment Center, we recommend you call us to ask questions and understand our services, programs, and philosophy on treatment. We believe our flexible treatment plans, compassionate staff, and sober living facilities for post-treatment life set us apart. We provide services that are essential to a healthy life. Call (800) 778-1772.