The steps to be taken during addiction treatment cannot be specified in black and white. They are variable from one client to another. However, essentially all processes of recovery share common elements. Here’s what you can expect upon entrance to a women’s drug rehab.
The Intake Process
It is your right to inquire and thus better decide on whether a certain rehab program feels right for your particular case, as much as it is the responsibility of rehab experts to gauge which specific program to put you on or how accurately they can individualize a treatment plan with your full benefit in mind. Therefore, it would be best if you meet and consult with the intake team of various women’s rehab centers before making a final decision. During the intake process, you can ask about the details of the program as well as undergo the necessary assessment, screening, and testing to determine which program you fit in. Either an inpatient or an outpatient arrangement can be recommended by a skilled and experienced assessment specialist at your women’s drug rehab of choice.
The Detoxification Process, or Often Simply Called ‘Detox’
Detox is a staple in rehabs, and therefore should be expected upon admission. This process is intended to flush out all traces of drugs or alcohol in a client’s system as a preliminary step to rehabilitation, recovery and ultimately a drug and alcohol-free life. This first step is crucial in restoring your clarity of mind and sound decision-making ability. Although detox is typically described by those who have experienced it as quite an ordeal, it is definitely crucial in your recovery progress, or the lack of it.
Therefore, while the stories you hear about detox may be daunting, deciding to subject yourself to this challenge is the wisest decision you can make in life. If it brings any solace, detox under medical supervision is not as unbearable as others may have exaggerated it to actually be. You will be under careful monitoring so as to somehow make the withdrawal experience safer and more comfortable, as well as to make sure that you are able to handle the symptoms well enough. Otherwise, you may be prescribed a certain medication, such as painkillers, mood stabilizers, sleeping aids or even non-addictive drug substitutes to help with muscle pain, depression, insomnia and intense cravings –which are some effects of withdrawal. Therefore, going cold turkey, or detoxing on your own, is never recommended as it is dangerous and potentially fatal. Once your body has been completely detoxified of all residual drugs or alcohol, your chances of attaining recovery success are increased.
Rehabilitation
After having completed detox, rehabilitation comes next, during which the underlying issues surrounding your addiction will be addressed on a deeper level. This sensitive process is accomplished through individual, group and family therapies, respectively. On an individual level, you will be guided by rehab specialists to determine the root of your addiction problem, in order to prevent or handle future relapses. Through group therapy, you are motivated to keep on track through inspiring progress stories from fellow recovering addicts who share the same goal of sobriety. Family therapy is a huge push towards recovery success, aside from your individual resolution and determination to recover.
Recovery and After-Care
Recovery is a constantly on-going process and does not end after completing rehab. The transition from living in a safe space to returning to your old environment, which is not at all devoid of temptations and triggers to pull you into your old habits, is a big challenge. Since relapsing is but a very natural part of recovery, you will be taught practical skills and strategies on how to avoid relapses, and how to bounce back on track after every relapse.