Facility Types
When someone is ready to make the commitment to enter drug rehab, he is making a very important change in his life. One of the first steps in the recovery process is finding the correct facility to meet the patient's needs. Different types of facilities focus on drug rehabilitation.
For severe cases of drug dependency, an inpatient drug rehab unit is recommended. A medical staff of physicians, nurses and psychologists initially works on the patient's medical needs. Patients are observed around-the-clock in a hospital-like setting, where their vital signs are closely monitored. Inpatient care generally lasts three to 10 days, depending on the patient's response to withdrawal.
A residential treatment center is similar to an inpatient care facility, but it is generally not in a hospital-type setting. With this form of drug rehab, several clients live together and work on detoxification and rehabilitation. Typically, a nurse is on call for certain medications, and a behavioral therapist assists patients with group therapy sessions or individualized care.
Outpatient drug rehabilitation centers are similar to residential centers, but clients are free to come and go. This setting is more beneficial for clients who do not have a severe problem with drug addiction or whose families and careers are a priority.
In some areas, there is also a program called sober house or sober living. Here, clients can live in a home or apartment with their peers who finished rehab. They receive structured support from professional staff members.
Detoxification
Detoxification for most types of drugs takes five to 14 days. This is the amount of time it takes for drugs to leave your system and for the symptoms of withdrawal to subside. With highly addictive drugs, such as opiates and painkillers, the drug might not be stopped suddenly. Generally, a patient is weaned over a course of several days to minimize the side effects of withdrawal.
Each classification of drug presents different symptoms, but typical withdrawal symptoms for drug detox include body tremors, hallucinations, intense craving for the drug, fever, seizures and violent behavior. After withdrawal is complete, patients often experience a rebound craving for the drug. Rebound can have similar effects to withdrawal and can come and go without warning, months, even years after a successful treatment.
Preventative Measures
Taking the proper preventative measures will help avoid a drug relapse. The best method is to take advantage of the support system of family and friends. They will be able to help the person avoid situations where he or she might be tempted. Ongoing behavioral therapy sessions also will help by keeping the lines of communication open between doctor and patient. A psychologist can offer encouragement and behavioral skills that the patient can use day-to-day to help avoid the temptation of drug use.
