How Free Rehab Programs Differ from Paid Programs

Paid programs are more likely to offer extra amenities, like gourmet cooking.

When celebrity addiction makes the news, the addict is often seen going into a posh, secluded vacation-style resort for treatment. These treatment centers are typically exclusive and aren’t affordable to the average person, much less an addict without money.

According to the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) nearly 24 million addicts needed treatment in 2009 based on the National Survey on Drug Use and Health. Of those, only 2.6 million were treated at an inpatient facility. About 40 percent of surveyed addicts said they didn’t bother seeking treatment because of its high cost.

Fortunately, there are many free rehab programs out there for those needing financial assistance. So, how do free rehab programs differ from paid programs?

Availability of Free Rehab Programs

One of the biggest differences between free rehab programs and paid programs is availability. Drug and alcohol addicts that seek treatment are often facing financial ruin or have lost much because of their addiction. The number of free rehab programs available is much smaller than paid programs just because there are many more addicts that need financial help.

What Free Rehab Programs Don’t Have

The more costly, luxury treatment centers are often found on the beach or in a secluded countryside location. These hotel-style centers offer private rooms, fine cuisine, room service, and many other services found in a hotel. Some paid programs offer recreational activities like swimming, horseback riding, or spa treatments for patients.

Many free rehab programs don’t offer these extras because of limited funding, but it doesn’t mean that free programs are any less effective.

What Free Rehab Programs Offer

Free programs are somewhat bare bones when it comes to amenities, but the basics of recovery are still present. Free rehab programs offer comprehensive detoxification services that are monitored by medical personnel. Many free centers have methadone and Suboxone to ease the withdrawals from drugs.

Free rehab programs will also have certified clinical and medical personnel that are experienced in working with addiction. Doctors and nurses can help addicts with detoxification and secondary diagnoses of other mental disorders or illness that contribute to drug abuse.

Free programs include therapy options that are customized to fit the needs of each individual. There are certified abuse counselors and individual therapy sessions. Many treatment centers also offer group and family therapy services.

Many programs work with a 12-step methodology to help addicts beat addictions. Addicts that follow a 12-step program are more likely to stay clean after leaving the treatment centers. Treatment centers may not offer 12-step meetings, but will introduce the basic methodology and have access to local groups.

The First Step Toward Recovery

Addicts that admit they need treatment to beat their addictions have taken the first step toward recovery. Whether treatment is spent at a paid facility or through free rehab programs, the chances of recovery are much better with professional help.