So what is the big fuss about all of these rehab centers and
how in the world do we know what rehab center is best for ourselves or a loved
one. While there are many aspects to addiction treatment and there is a wide
array of differences among rehab centers many individuals simply want to know
if they should utilize a residential rehab center, an outpatient rehab center, or
both forms of rehab in conjunction. This is a good question and here is a good
answer.
First, let me say that there is a good need for both
residential rehab and outpatient rehab dependent on the person. And ultimately,
the individual’s personal preference and comfort will dictate the rehab setting
they choose. While both rehab settings are important, let’s shed some light on
the topic to make a more informed decision in our rehab center search.
Often there are two types of individuals that this author
frequently encounters. First is the person that associates residential rehab as
the only possible way to treat their addiction and stay free of substance
abuse. The second individual states that checking out of life and into a rehab
center is not even an option given their other obligations in life and would
rather continue using that risk any negative impacts to these obligations.
Based on research and current trends residential rehab,
while in some cases being a vital part of treatment, has a high rate of relapse
if not followed by some sort of outpatient rehab. This being the case there may
not always be a need to enter residential rehab centers at the initiation of
rehab. If the need does arise many outpatient rehab centers have the ability to
freeze their rehab program and utilize a residential rehab as needed. Some of
these cases might include a need for medical stabilization, or non-compliance
in an outpatient rehab setting.
So why is outpatient rehab so important to addiction
treatment? It’s simple, it has to do with the way addiction affects the brain
and how individuals deal with stress. It can be explained in this simple analogy,
without getting too much into the science. The brain recognizes the substance
used as a coping mechanism that is much more efficient than other and so a
memory is stored for reference in similar situations. This is much like a coat
or blanket when we get cold.
So, as negatives are associated with substance abuse, let’s
say all blankets and coats have small pox and there is no vaccine. So, if you
use a blanket or coat you may not die immediately but you would eventually and
if you see your family you might negatively affect them as well. Now, we have
to figure out alternate forms to stay warm without grabbing a blanket or coat.
Thrown out in the cold anyone, knowing what is on these items, would grab them
before death occurs. What is the difference between residential rehab and
outpatient rehab? I’ll leave you with this final question.
Would we be more successful learning a technique to stay
warm on a beach in Florida or in Maine with 6 feet of snow on the ground and
someone to guide us?
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