How Do You Know a Treatment Center is Right for You?

Addiction is a complicated and dangerous disease that affects millions of people every year. And, according to the Centers for Disease Control, substance abuse of all varieties is increasing, despite the best efforts to stop it. For all of the people struggling with addiction, it can be difficult to know where to turn to for help. One of the best ways to get help is from an addiction treatment center, but how do you know a treatment center is right for you? There are a few things to consider, in order to make this decision.

What makes treatment effective?

The National Institute on Drug Abuse states that there are a number of factors that determine the effectiveness of any treatment program. Treatment centers are no exception. Some of these factors include:

• ready availability of treatment,
• counseling,
• taking care of all of the patient’s needs,
• continuing care programs to prevent relapses,
• monitoring of substance use during treatment, and
• adaptable and changing treatment methods tailored to each individual.

Treatment centers that meet all of these criteria are more effective than those that do not. The types of treatment performed also factor heavily into the effectiveness of a treatment center.

Types of treatment

Family counseling is offered in treatment.

There are two primary categories of treatment for addiction. Both are equally important, and the proper balance between them must be reached for a patient to receive the most benefit. These categories are medical and behavioral.

• Medical treatment of addiction may include a number of things, including:

o detoxification,

o monitoring and management of withdrawal symptoms, and

o medication assisted treatment or medication replacement therapy.

• Behavioral treatment usually involves:

o family, individual, and/or group counseling,

o cognitive behavioral therapy (changing thoughts and actions that lead to substance abuse),

o self-help aftercare, such as a 12 step program, and

o motivational therapies.

Not all of these things are right for everyone, and, according to the Mayo Clinic, it is important that a treatment center understand each person’s needs and expectations.

Inpatient centers vs. outpatient centers

Just as there are two categories of treatment, there are two main types of treatment centers. These are inpatient and outpatient. Each has their own advantages and drawbacks.

Inpatient treatment centers

• Advantages:

o Housing and meals

o 24/7 care

o All-inclusive treatment

o Structure

• Disadvantages:

o Disconnection from friends and family

o Strict rules

o Mandatory treatment regimens

Outpatient treatment centers

• Advantages:

o More control over your own treatment

o The ability to stay at home with friends and family

• Disadvantages:

o Less supervision and monitoring

o You remain in the environment of your addiction

o Fewer included treatment options

Each of these treatment center options are beneficial, and which to choose depends on each individual’s circumstances.

Making a decision

If you or someone you love is considering a treatment center for addiction, you should consider all of these factors, and look for a center that meets all of your needs. It is also beneficial to consult with a doctor, and contact your local mental health authority in order to locate the treatment centers in your area, and find out what services they offer.