Funds will be used to grow the addiction and mental health treatment directory’s coverage and dataset to encompass all U.S. providers.
RehabPath leadership team meeting at our Madison, Wisconsin headquarters.
Madison, WI – The majority of people who need addiction treatment start their search online. But unfortunately, this process is far from straightforward due to the complexity of the decision and dire lack of helpful, independent resources available.
In addition, treatment seekers are vulnerable to the scams and deceptive marketing practices that run rampant in the rehab industry. This leaves high-quality, ethical addiction and mental health providers with scarce options to legitimately reach their target audience online.
That’s why RehabPath exists.
We know the first step in the recovery journey is a crucial one. We’re here to empower individuals and families by providing honest information about the treatment process. Our goal is to match people with treatment programs that really fit their needs. And by growing our business, we can increase our capacity to make that urgently needed impact.
We’re proud to announce that HealthX Ventures, a digital health-focused venture capital firm right here in Madison, has provided $3 million in funding to support us in this effort. HealthX Ventures invests in innovative companies that create cost-effective, user-friendly healthcare solutions. RehabPath joins cutting-edge companies like Redox, Medable, CancerIQ and DotCom Therapy as part of the HealthX portfolio.
Funds from this collaboration are being used to continue to build our comprehensive, nationwide resource of addiction and mental health treatment providers. As we redouble our efforts to increase treatment connections, we’re also building out our team. After 4 years of calling StartingBlock Madison home, our new headquarters on the Capitol Square at the top of State Street will open its doors in October.
HealthX Managing Partner Mark Bakken has been a great addition to our board. Mark applies his extensive experience in rapid business growth to supporting our leadership and operations, and recognizes mental health as an important growth area.
“RehabPath is fulfilling a real need in the market and doing it in a patient-first, ethical way. HealthX couldn’t be happier to be partnering with RehabPath’s passionate and talented team to help people around the world connect with high-quality mental health and addiction treatment providers.
The fact that this important work is happening just a few blocks away from us is also very exciting to me and a big win for the Madison ecosystem.”
RehabPath Co-Founders Jeremiah Calvino and Ben Camp
Since our founding in 2017, RehabPath has grown to a 35-person (and growing) team of compassionate, joyful, diverse, and ethically aligned colleagues who share a passion for increasing access to treatment.
We’re excited for this major milestone on our journey, and look forward to supporting more people on their path to recovery!
IV drip therapy is a new—and controversial—way to treat addiction. Treatment is just what it sounds like: clients receive vitamins and nutrients intravenously. The goal is to speed up detox, and help with ongoing addiction recovery. And while it sounds promising, there’s some debate about whether it actually works.
Some experts say it relieves the symptoms of detox and withdrawal. It might also ease the other physical side effects of addiction. But many doctors call for more evidence, saying this treatment isn’t worth its high price. You can try IV drip therapy at several rehab centers—but make sure you understand the pros and cons before you get started.
What Is IV Drip Therapy?
During this treatment, a medical professional administers a vitamin solution through an IV.1 These solutions consist of various vitamins and minerals, like amino acids, vitamin C and B, NAD+ (nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide), and more. You’ll sit and relax for 30-60 minutes while the infusion enters your system. Different rehabs offer various types of IV drip therapy. They might even tailor each treatment to address your specific symptoms.
Vitamin Infusions
In vitamin IV therapy, you’ll receive a specific combination of vitamins, minerals, and nutrients. Various treatments can target different physical symptoms. For example, studies show that the Myer’s Cocktail,2 a mixture of magnesium, calcium, B vitamins, and vitamin C, helps prevent migraines, fatigue, and respiratory issues. If you have more specialized concerns, FHE Health offers customized vitamin IV infusions.3
NAD+ Treatments
NAD+ is a naturally occurring coenzyme. It heals and creates new cells, effectively boosting your energy levels. It also protects against stress. Experts say that NAD+ IV therapy alleviates detox symptoms.4
Some providers also use it to treat mental health issues. The Sanctuary at Sedona offers NAD+ therapy5 to clients with depression, PTSD, and anxiety, as well as addiction. Mary L. Deluca, psychiatrist and Medical Director, says that treatment improves clients’ cognition, energy levels, and sleep habits.
Is IV Drip Treatment Effective?
The effectiveness of IV drip therapy1 is up for debate. People usually get enough vitamins from a balanced diet, and adding extra vitamins may not actually boost your health. On the other hand, some experts recommend it for detox and addiction recovery.
Reported Benefits of IV Drip Therapy
Some rehabs recommend IV therapy during recovery, especially during detox and withdrawal. Treatment may also help you heal from the physical impacts of addiction. Supporters of IV drip therapy cite several positive effects.
IV drip therapy improves hydration.8 Whether your infusion contains NAD+, nutrients, or other vitamins, the saline solution will have a similar effect. This can be especially helpful if you’re healing from ongoing dehydration due to alcohol addiction.9 For these clients, rehydration may improve brain function.
Experts Call for Evidence
Like most treatments, IV drip therapy has pros and cons.1 And some experts think it doesn’t work at all. Columbia University professor Dr. Ariel Igal calls it “the placebo effect.” Others say it has unnecessary risks.
Excessive vitamin intake can be dangerous.1 Water-soluble vitamins, like vitamins C and B, don’t stay in the body. The excess is immediately flushed from your system, making treatment a waste. But excess fat-soluble vitamins— like A, D, and E—are stored in the body for longer periods of time. And they can be harmful in large amounts.
The high cost of IV treatments1probably won’t be covered by your insurance. The FDA has yet to approve this type of therapy. And each 30-60 minute session can cost $100—or much more.
Fitting IV Therapy Into Your Recovery Plan
As controversial as vitamin infusions are, they’re very helpful for some clients. But this treatment is just one way to approach recovery. If you’re interested in IV therapy, talk to your medical providers about whether it’s safe for you.
Use Recovery.com to compare treatment options at rehabs, including their pricing, insurance coverage, and other complementary therapies.
At some point in your search for a rehab, you may have heard treatment professionals use the term “12-Step facilitation.” But what does it mean?
12-Step facilitation, or TSF, is a method used in clinical settings to promote participation in the 12 Steps as a core part of addiction treatment. Aspects of TSF are often used in 12-Step rehab.
According to the Recovery Research Institute, a nonprofit research arm of Massachusetts General Hospital, “Twelve-Step Facilitation (TSF) treatments ((Twelve-step facilitation(Tsf). (2017, February 27). Recovery Research Institute. https://www.recoveryanswers.org/resource/twelve-step-facilitation-tsf/)) are a set of semi-structured therapies designed to help people abstain from alcohol and other drugs by systematically linking them to, and encouraging their active participation in, community-based 12-step mutual-help organizations.”
In this approach, addiction treatment professionals in a formal treatment setting help you adopt the 12 Steps and apply them throughout your recovery journey. Recovery success is directly related to ongoing participation in AA and other 12-Step groups. TSF is based on the disease model, ((Hall, W., Carter, A., & Forlini, C. (2015). The brain disease model of addiction: Is it supported by the evidence and has it delivered on its promises? The Lancet Psychiatry, 2(1), 105–110. https://doi.org/10.1016/S2215-0366(14)00126-6)) which sees addiction as a lifelong illness. It focuses on Steps 1 through 5. ((The twelve steps | Alcoholics Anonymous. (n.d.). Retrieved October 10, 2022, from https://www.aa.org/the-twelve-steps))
Goals of TSF
The goals of TSF ((Nowinski, J., Baker, S., & Carroll, K. (1999). TWELVE STEP FACILITATION THERAPY MANUAL. U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. https://pubs.niaaa.nih.gov/publications/projectmatch/match01.pdf)) involve embracing the tenets of the 12 Steps—acceptance of addiction as an uncontrollable disease, and surrender to a higher power—and using them to achieve treatment outcomes:
abstinence (staying sober)
long-term recovery
integrating with the 12-Step community
emotional and spiritual growth
What This Means for Your Treatment Experience
Meetings are encouraged.
You may track your meeting attendance and progress through the Steps in a journal, which you’ll then review with your therapist.
According to Project Match’s 12-Step facilitation therapy manual, ((Nowinski, J., Baker, S., & Carroll, K. (1999). TWELVE STEP FACILITATION THERAPY MANUAL. U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. https://pubs.niaaa.nih.gov/publications/projectmatch/match01.pdf)) “Patients are actively encouraged to attend AA meetings and to maintain journals of their AA attendance and participation. Therapy sessions are highly structured, following a similar format each week that includes symptoms inquiry, review and reinforcement for AA participation, introduction and explication of the week’s theme, and setting goals for AA participation for the next week. Material introduced during treatment sessions is complemented by reading assignments from AA literature.”
At some rehabs, meetings are mandatory. Learn to Live in Hermann, Missouri implements “12-Step immersion and engagement” by encouraging patients to attend weekly meetings. These can include house meetings (which take place on-site at the treatment facility), community meetings (local meetings outside of rehab), virtual meetings, or recovery community events, and must total 5 meetings per week.
The extent to which a rehab uses TSF varies from program to program: they may only apply aspects of it, or base their program entirely on AA’s model. It’s important that your rehab’s treatment philosophy makes sense to you. Ask admissions staff for more details on how they use the 12 Steps in treatment.
Your therapists integrate the 12 Steps into your treatment plan.
In TSF, you and your therapist might track your progress to see how you’re adapting to the AA community, reflect on what came up in a specific meeting, or talk through your feelings about the program so far. Part of their job is to help you overcome barriers to attending meetings and reservations you may have about the program.
United Recovery Project explains how TSF can support the recovery journey, ((Luxury addiction treatment center – alcohol & drug rehab – united recovery project. (n.d.). United Recovery Project Florida. Retrieved from https://unitedrecoveryproject.com/12-step-facilitation-therapy/)) even after rehab:
“The goal isn’t to get them to show up to one session but rather to immerse themself to a point where they thrive.12-Step facilitation therapy may occur while someone is in a rehabilitation center or after they have finished substance abuse treatment. Participating in 12-Step facilitation therapy after leaving rehab is often most advantageous as doing so encourages you to stay on track.”
Is TSF Right for You? Connect With a 12-Step Rehab to Learn More
12 Step isn’t for everyone, but many people find it helps them get—and stay—sober. And because this approach is so highly respected, it’s easy to find aligned treatment programs. These facilities can help you work toward complete sobriety, and connect with a global community of like-minded people.
Look into available programs in our searchable directory of 12-Step rehabs.
The gentle practice of Reiki promotes inner peace and natural self-healing. And in addiction treatment, holistic rehabs use Reiki to support clients through the physical, mental, and emotional changes of early recovery. But how exactly does Reiki work, and is it actually effective?
What Is Reiki?
Reiki is a form of energy healing that originated in Japan in the early 20th century. In Japanese, the word reiki means “universal life energy.” Practitioners act as a conduit for this energy, using their hands (with or without physical touch) to transmit it to the receiver.
Reiki is about overall wellness.1 According to practitioner Teri Kersting, “As a holistic health practitioner, you’re looking at mind, body, and spirit. It’s very healing in all respects.”
What Happens in a Session?
Reiki usually takes place in a relaxed environment, similar to what you’d expect during a massage. There may be soft music playing to help you relax. You’ll remain clothed and lie on a massage table or sit in a chair. If you have physical pain, you can get into any position that will be comfortable for you to be in for the duration of the session.
Throughout the session, the practitioner will lay their hands on or near you in various positions, and may also draw symbols above your body. These are intended to clear negative energy and realign your chakras.
Sessions normally take 60-90 minutes, but can be shorter or longer depending on your needs. And like talk therapy, it can also be done remotely.
Do I Need to Do Anything While Receiving Reiki?
Your only job during the session is to relax. Some people fall asleep, which is completely okay and doesn’t interfere with your ability to receive its benefits. There’s no right or wrong way to receive Reiki.
What Will I Feel During Reiki?
Everyone experiences Reiki differently—and you may feel differently from session to session depending on your state at the time. Some people feel warm or tingling sensations at the site of the practitioner’s hands. Others see colors or other visuals, or have dreams. Emotional and physical feelings are said to indicate a release of stuck energy. Some people feel nothing at all, which is also perfectly normal.
How Will I Feel After Reiki?
Most people feel relaxed, grounded, and in a better mood after Reiki. You may choose to discuss what came up for you during the session with your practitioner, but this is optional. You’ll likely be advised to drink plenty of water throughout the day to hydrate your body as your energy recalibrates. You can return to your day as usual, and even drive, immediately following.
Will My Reiki Practitioner Respect My Boundaries?
As part of creating a trauma-sensitive environment, your practitioner should respect all of your requirements for feeling safe. You may ask them not to lay their hands directly on you, and request any changes you need to feel comfortable, such as adjusting the volume of the music or temperature of the room. As with any therapy, feel free to voice any questions or concerns at any point before, during, or after the session.
How Many Sessions Do I Need?
One Reiki session may be enough to lift your spirits or help you through a hard moment. More sessions may be necessary for stubborn or ongoing issues. You may opt for a series of sessions, based on your treatment goals. Reiki can also be used as a regular part of maintenance and self-care. As Kersting says, “It helps us center at the end of the day. Also, it helps us prepare for the day ahead, and all the stresses and anxieties that can come up.”
Who Can Administer Reiki?
There are 4 levels of Reiki training. At level 1, practitioners can do Reiki on themselves, and at level 2, they can perform it on others.
While some alternative medicine professionals hold high accreditations that require years of schooling, Reiki is known for being easy to learn and apply, and courses for each level can be completed in as little as a day.
Where Is It Available?
Reiki is often offered at holistic rehabs as a complement to other clinical and alternative therapies. If you want to continue after residential rehab, many practitioners offer it as a standalone therapy. Some massage therapists incorporate aspects of Reiki into their practice—though this looks different than a typical Reiki session.
What Can Reiki Treat?
Intended to regulate the nervous system and support your body’s natural healing abilities, Reiki can be used to treat a wide range of conditions.2 Reiki master and practitioner Melanie Hoffstead says her clients report relief from depression and chronic pain:
“People who come to me who’ve suffered for many years with arthritis, with quite a few treatments, seem to be almost pain-free. People who suffer from depression seem to be able to have more of a sense that life can be more manageable.”
Because there are no medical conditions that preclude people from receiving Reiki, it can be applied in almost any setting, and is even used in some hospitals. It can also be used to support substance abuse recovery.
Reiki and Your Recovery
Recovery is rewarding, but is inevitably challenging at times. This is especially true in the early stages as you confront deeply held wounds and adjust mentally and physically to a life without substances. Reiki can provide much-needed calm and comfort during tough times.
Research shows Reiki can produce “significant reductions in stress” and improved emotional well-being, especially for individuals with clinical levels of stress or depression. In fact, studies show that Reiki eases alcohol withdrawals3 by reducing cravings and helping people achieve a sense of harmony through their own, natural processes.
Enlightened Recovery in New Jersey uses Reiki to help their clients restore their mind-body connection:
“For men and women who are in treatment for drug and alcohol addiction, reiki healing is especially helpful.4 Addiction tears apart the mind/body relationship and disconnects a person from themselves. Being in such heightened states caused by stimulant substances or depressed states caused by depressant substances, alters the energy flow of the body. Releasing old energy helps those in treatment release emotions which they have held onto for some time. Reiki directly encourages the therapeutic process for healing mind, body, and spirit.”
Sivana Bali in Canggu incorporates Reiki into their treatment program as part of their alternative therapy5 offerings. “While practitioners may vary widely in technique and philosophy,” says their team, “Reiki is commonly used to treat emotional and mental distress as well as chronic and acute physical problems, and to assist the recipient in achieving spiritual focus and clarity.”
Is Reiki Real?
Some claim that Reiki is pseudoscientific, and research supporting its effectiveness is limited. But numerous studies do seem to draw similar conclusions about its benefits. One study on Reiki for alcohol withdrawal3 confirmed previous findings about its positive effects:
Release of fear, negative thoughts, and emotional strain
Reduced anxiety and depression
Improved self-confidence
Increased hope
Relaxation and better sleep
Reduced heart rate and blood pressure
Less pain
Researchers found that “reiki can produce effects like tranquility, peace, relaxation, reduced depression and increased energy level, which supports the results of greater harmony, joy and energy in this study.”
Even for those who are skeptical about energy healing, there’s strong evidence to show that touch—including gentle touch therapies—has proven benefits for human well-being. One large-scale meta-study published in 2023 found that touch was especially effective in reducing pain, depression, and anxiety,6 as well as regulating levels of cortisol (a stress hormone) in adults and children.
Limitations of Reiki
Reiki can surface suppressed emotions, and it’s helpful to be able to process these with a talk therapist. As a complementary therapy, it should be used to support your primary treatment plan. Reiki practitioners don’t provide diagnoses and shouldn’t be expected to treat severe conditions on their own. It may not be for you if you prefer a more evidence-based approach to healing.
Is Reiki Right for You? Discover Alternative Addiction Treatment
Energy healing isn’t everyone’s cup of tea. But as Reiki is a safe, gentle practice with no contraindications, there’s very little risk involved in trying it. The safe space that rehab provides is a great place to try new things, and many people find Reiki to be a helpful addition to their care.
As Kersting says, “Everything in the universe is energy, including emotions. When we have emotional blocks that we hold onto, that can affect our pure life force energy. Reiki is about helping to release those blocks.” Explore rehabs that offer Reiki to see their facilities, learn about their programs, and reach out to their admissions staff directly.
Your time in rehab should be focused on getting well. And in many treatment centers, it will be. Reputable rehab facilities are designed to help patients as they enter recovery. And after you complete the program, you’ll be ready for whatever comes next.
Unfortunately, many rehab centers take advantage of people. They’re more focused on making money than on helping you heal. Some even commit insurance fraud, lie about their services, and employ unqualified staff.
There’s good news, though. If you know what to look for, you can spot and avoid several common scams. Here’s how to protect yourself, and get the help you need as you begin recovery.
Scam #1: Patient Brokering
Patient brokering is, unfortunately, a common practice in the addiction treatment industry. This is when a 3rd party gets paid for helping a rehab find new patients. Also known as “body brokering,” ((California man accused of ‘body brokering’ – receiving illegal kickbacks from sober living homes. (2021, March 31). The Mercury News. https://www.ocregister.com/2021/03/31/o-c-man-accused-of-receiving-illegal-kickbacks-from-sober-living-homes)) this scam is like a commission model—but the patient is the product being sold. This practice has been illegal since 2018.
The process often starts with a phone call from a recruiter. Once they have you on the line, they might recommend a disreputable rehab facility in another state, ((Avoiding addiction treatment scams | Mass.gov. (n.d.). Retrieved from https://www.mass.gov/service-details/avoiding-addiction-treatment-scams)) or try to sign you up for a program right away. They might even offer perks if you sign up, or say they’ll cover the cost of travel.
Recruiters don’t always call you. Sometimes, they wait for you to call them. A lot of online ads have numbers for “treatment centers” that actually go to call centers. And if you call in, the agent will just connect you to the highest bidder. From there, they’ll try to sign you up for their program immediately, whether or not it’s a good fit.
If you run into patient brokering online or by getting a spam phone call, it’s pretty easy to avoid. But it can also happen in other ways. Even doctors and therapists can get kickbacks for referring patients to rehab. That’s why it’s important to do your own research.
How to Avoid a Patient Brokering Scam
Be wary of free hotlines. Helplines on ads might lead you to a predatory call center. Instead, call the number on the treatment center’s website.
Ask specific questions when you’re shopping rehabs. They should be able to tell you everything you need to know about their program. Vague responses are red flags. You can also ask what they think about referral fees.
Discuss patient brokering with your doctor or therapist. Politely ask if they’ll receive any benefits for referring you to a specific treatment center.
Be wary of strangers who want to sign you up for a specific rehab. An investigation by the Orange County Register found several ways brokers take advantage of people who need treatment. ((How some Southern California drug rehab centers exploit addiction. (2017, May 21). Orange County Register. https://www.ocregister.com/2017/05/21/how-some-southern-california-drug-rehab-centers-exploit-addiction/)) Specifically, they “troll Alcoholics Anonymous meetings, homeless camps and drug courts to find people they can send to rehab—for kickbacks from the centers. Often, when they have a prospect, brokers will call several rehab centers and seek competitive bids. Highest bidder gets the business.” They may also text or call you.
Scam #2: Insurance Fraud
Once you’re in treatment, some of these unethical rehabs try to commit insurance fraud. ((Addiction treatment facility owner convicted in $58 million health care fraud scheme. (2022, April 13). https://www.justice.gov/opa/pr/addiction-treatment-facility-owner-convicted-58-million-health-care-fraud-scheme)) They might inflate the bill to your insurance company, or add unnecessary steps to your treatment plan. Some order daily drug testing even when it’s clear that you’re sober. And if your insurance refuses to pay, you might have a bigger problem. For example, you could get kicked out of rehab—a process called “curbing.”
Be wary of any rehab center that enrolls patients in a new insurance policy. ((Desperate for addiction treatment, patients are pawns in lucrative insurance fraud scheme. (2017, July 7). STAT. https://www.statnews.com/2017/07/07/opioid-insurance-fraud/)) This might seem like a good deal—and they might even offer you free treatment. But these centers often lie about your address so it looks like you live in a different state. They’ll also pick plans with larger reimbursements, so they can make even more money. And when the insurance company finds out the truth, you might be liable.
How to Avoid Insurance Scams
Ask the admissions team questions about how they handle insurance. Legitimate rehab facilities will be transparent about costs and insurance coverage.
Refuse to let anyone cover your insurance costs or change your policy for you. If something sounds too good to be true, it probably is. Outrageous offers of free treatment are a sign that something’s wrong.
Scam #3: Incorrect Information About Addiction Treatment
Some treatment centers make claims that simply aren’t true. These might appear as testimonials or interviews. In one case, an Indiana center offered a man free addiction treatment in exchange for singing their praises of one center in a YouTube video. In a follow up interview, he said the rehab program didn’t work for him ((Harper, J. (2019, August 22). Addiction clinics market unproven infusion treatments to desperate patients. NPR. https://www.npr.org/sections/health-shots/2019/08/22/741115178/addiction-clinics-market-unproven-infusion-treatments-to-desperate-patients))—and that he started drinking again soon after it ended.
The unfortunate reality is that unscrupulous rehabs may lie ((Lopez, G. (2019, October 9). Looking for drug rehab? Ask facilities these 11 questions first. Vox. https://www.vox.com/science-and-health/2019/10/9/20887787/drug-rehab-addiction-treatment-facilities-inpatient-outpatient)) about any of the following important subjects:
Accreditation status. Organizations may not actually have the accreditations and licenses they claim to. And they might lie about this even if they’re not breaking any laws. For instance, California doesn’t require business owners to have a valid medical license or degree to open a rehab. ((How some Southern California drug rehab centers exploit addiction. (2017, May 21). Orange County Register. https://www.ocregister.com/2017/05/21/how-some-southern-california-drug-rehab-centers-exploit-addiction/))
Staff credentials. It’s important to double-check that employees actually have the medical licenses and qualifications they say they do. If you’ll be receiving medical attention during rehab, there should be MDs and nurses on staff. Rehabs employ mental health professionals ranging from counselors to psychiatrists, with varying degrees of education and experience.
Amenities and services. On their websites, centers list resources they’ll provide. But once you arrive, these services might not be available.
Conditions treated. In order to attract more clients, some facilities say they treat more conditions than they actually do.
How to Avoid Rehab Programs That List Inaccurate Services
Learn about their reputation. Ask people you trust, like your doctor, to tell you about the program. Read reviews on Google, not only testimonials from the center’s website. Search for their name online to find out about any history of scandal.
Make sure they have valid accreditations. Check the facility’s website to see if they have accreditation logos from the Joint Commission or Commission on Accreditation of Rehabilitation Facilities (CARF). These 2 organizations authorize treatment facilities in the U.S. Check if they’re members of the National Association of Addiction Treatment Providers (NAATP). This is another good sign, since the NAATP’s code of ethics doesn’t allow referral payments.
Confirm that they have qualified staff. View the facility’s employees on their website, and check their staff’s qualifications against each state’s requirements.
Ask specific questions. Ask the admissions team which conditions they treat, and what amenities they offer. They should be ready with detailed answers about their services, fees, and insurance coverage.
Scam #4: Offering Free Things in Exchange for Treatment
Some addiction treatment centers entice patients to enroll with money, ((Lopez, G. (2020, March 2). She wanted addiction treatment. She ended up in the relapse capital of America. Vox. https://www.vox.com/policy-and-politics/2020/3/2/21156327/florida-shuffle-drug-rehab-addiction-treatment-bri-jaynes)) gifts, free flights, or other amenities. They’ll use these prizes to convince patients to start treatment, stay in rehab, or move to their facility.
How to Avoid This Scam and Find Recovery
Don’t accept compensation or gifts to attend treatment. Legitimate rehab facilities may offer helpful amenities, like rides from the airport to treatment. But they won’t ever offer you money or gifts.
Look for Rehabs With Green Flags
When you’re researching different centers, you can also look for good things. These green flags can indicate that a rehab is trustworthy.
They offer individualized treatment. Experts say that above all, the best treatment facilities offer personalized treatment plans. ((Lopez, G. (2019, October 9). Looking for drug rehab? Ask facilities these 11 questions first. Vox. https://www.vox.com/science-and-health/2019/10/9/20887787/drug-rehab-addiction-treatment-facilities-inpatient-outpatient)) Each patient is unique, and not everyone responds to rehab in the same way. When providers really care about recovery, they’ll make sure your program works for you—not the other way around.
They help you plan for aftercare. Recovery doesn’t end when you complete rehab. For most people, it’s a lifelong process. But good treatment centers help you plan for what comes next. Some offer aftercare programs, and others connect you with outside providers.
They discuss other options, like outpatient care. If your insurance won’t cover inpatient rehab, outpatient treatment might be more affordable. Good providers will help you choose the option that’s best for you—and not just their bottom line.
They’re honest about recovery rates. Most addiction treatment works 50-60% of the time. ((Lopez, G. (2019, October 9). Looking for drug rehab? Ask facilities these 11 questions first. Vox. https://www.vox.com/science-and-health/2019/10/9/20887787/drug-rehab-addiction-treatment-facilities-inpatient-outpatient)) If a center claims that patients have a 100% recovery rate, they might be lying. Or, this might be a sign that they lose touch with alumni.
Start Your Search for a Reputable Rehab
There are plenty of facilities that put you first, and genuinely want to help you heal. You deserve that level of care. Don’t settle for a rehab that offers anything less.
Compare addiction and mental health treatment centers and reach out directly to their staff for answers to your questions about pricing, insurance, specializations, and more.
The Midwest is central to the U.S.—and not just geographically. This major travel hub is accessible to visitors from around the world. And in spite of the weather (or maybe because of it), its people are known for their kindness and hospitality. Whether you’re traveling from near or far, rehabs in the Midwest will make you feel at home during recovery.
That might be due to the region’s weather. Travel experts say temperatures in the Midwest “can swing 100 or more degrees between winter and summer.”6 When it’s warm out, residents spend as much time outside as possible. And in the colder months, people come together to keep warm. Random acts of kindness—like shoveling a neighbor’s driveway—strengthen relationships year-round. This attitude informs the way many Midwestern rehabs approach treatment.
Community Care
Addiction wreaks havoc on relationships. At many centers in the Midwest, treatment helps you improve your interpersonal skills. Some centers even offer family programs, so you and your loved ones can heal together.
Family Therapy
You may be the person entering rehab, but you’re not the only one who needs to heal. The team at Banyan Heartland recognizes this. In their program, loved ones get direct support from family specialists7 throughout the 1st year of recovery. These experts understand that treating the whole family system is an essential part of healing.
Positive Sobriety Institute, in Chicago, has a different approach to family therapy. Their program is a 3-day lecture series. Multiple families come together to learn about addiction and connect with each other. The goal is to improve communication and make your transition out of rehab as smooth as possible. If your family knows how to support you, you’ll all be better prepared for the future.
Most rehab centers define “family” broadly. Yours may include your parents, partner, children, or close friends. And during recovery, you might find that you need to step back from all of them. That’s okay. Sometimes it’s even necessary. And if you decide to take a break from those relationships, there are plenty of other ways to find support.
According to experts at Hazelden, the Minnesota Model “began with the revolutionary idea of creating a humane, therapeutic community.”9 In this framework, people in recovery support each other, instead of only relying on their providers. Clients work through the 12 Steps and engage with their communities during rehab. This can help you to practice essential life skills, and to imagine your future.
Experiential Therapies
Talk therapy is an essential part of treatment, but it’s not the only way to heal. It’s also important to learn healthy coping strategies that you can keep using after rehab. Experiential therapy lets clients have fun, learn about themselves, and try out new hobbies. And in the Midwest, there are some beautiful ways to do just that.
Live in Style, and Enjoy Adventure Outings
Throughout this region, major cities punctuate vast rural areas. In almost any town, you’re just a short drive from nature. Some rehab programs, like Evolve Indy, take full advantage of this. On the one hand, clients are allowed to use cell phones and go on shopping trips during treatment. And on the other, you can go ziplining in the wilderness. In the Midwest, it’s easy to balance the need for creature comforts with a longing for adventure.
The Heartland’s Natural Beauty Can Help You Heal
Other rehabs, like Top of the World, immerse clients in nature throughout treatment. This ranch sits on 315 acres of countryside in rural Illinois, close to the Mississippi River. Clients can explore hiking trails10 or bike along Miller Creek. Programs like this one might be a good fit if you want a break from urban (or even suburban) life. During rehab, you’ll learn to quiet your mind and enjoy the serenity around you. This can even be part of your treatment plan. Data shows that spending time outdoors helps people recover from addiction.
Lakes are beautiful at any time of year—but it’s hard to take a boat out when they’re frozen. Many of the outdoor adventures the Midwest has to offer are only possible in warmer seasons. But when you decide to start rehab, you may not have time to wait. And you don’t have to. The centers in this area have systems in place to make recovery accessible, at every time of year.
Flexible Treatment Options
If you want to avoid harsh weather, this area won’t be a good fit for you in the winter. The region gets very little daylight in the colder months. In December, northern areas like Minneapolis, MN, can see as little as 6 or 7 hours of sunlight per day. Temperatures can go well below 0 °F, depending on your exact location. Most people prefer to spend the season indoors, enjoying warm drinks and good company. But the inclement weather doesn’t need to interfere with your plans for recovery.
Virtual Therapy
Many Midwestern rehab programs offer more flexibility than you might find in other regions. This is important for clients with limited mobility. Even if you’re snowed in, or physically healing from the effects of addiction, you can still access the support you need.
Some facilities, like Pathlight Mood and Anxiety Center Chicago, offer virtual treatment. Clients from 21 states can connect with providers online,12 getting “the same level of trusted care available at our in-person treatment centers.” And that doesn’t mean you’ll be getting the exact same type of care. These specialists have additional training in telehealth. For example, they’ll understand that you’re living on your own, and that you have a life outside of therapy.
Perhaps because of its focus on community, the Midwest has many outpatient programs. These rehabs allow you to stay in touch with local friends and family during recovery. If those relationships are healthy, they can be a valuable source of support.
Thanks to its central location, the Midwest is a travel hub for people coming from all over the world. That’s especially true of Chicago’s O’Hare International Airport,14 which boasts 193 gates, serving over 40 airlines.15 Other commercial airports pepper the area. You can fly into regional or international airports in Minnesota, Wisconsin, Michigan, Ohio, and Missouri.
It’s also easy to drive to the Midwest, depending on the season. If you’re coming from close by, it may be more cost-effective to get a ride to treatment. Just be sure your driver feels safe navigating inclement weather. And if it’s too snowy to drive, you and your support person can even take the train to most major Midwestern cities.16
As easy as it is to get around in this area, you shouldn’t travel to treatment alone. This is a delicate time, and it’s vital to have social support. And you don’t have to rely on your loved ones. Talk to the admissions team at your rehab about travel options, so they can help you get to treatment safely.
Find Your Community in Midwestern Rehabs
No matter where you’ve been, or what you’ve been through, there’s a place for you in the Midwest. This welcoming culture tries to make everyone feel at home, whether you’re a visitor or a long-time resident. If you live nearby, it makes sense that you would want this kind of comfort during treatment. And if you’re coming from afar, the Midwest is a great place to get the emotional support you need.
Browse our list of rehabs in the Midwest to learn about their treatment models, housing options, outdoor activities, pricing, and more.
The body has an innate ability to heal itself – and some addiction treatment modalities work by enhancing this. The idea behind hyperbaric oxygen therapy (HBOT) is that it can boost these self-healing properties to promote a number of positive effects.
While HBOT has long been used to treat decompression sickness, also known as “the bends,” it’s now being used in addiction and behavioral health settings. Some rehabs are introducing this therapy as a way to reduce symptoms of substance use and physical or emotional trauma, and accelerate their clients’ treatment progress as a result. Beyond just treating addiction, HBOT is also used by high-performance athletes and others who simply wish to optimize their health. But is this therapy as effective as treatment centers claim? We’ll take a look at the following:
Hyperbaric oxygen therapy was first employed in the early 1900s by the U.S. Navy, who used it to treat deep-sea divers who resurfaced too quickly. It’s since become a well-established treatment for decompression sickness among scuba divers, and since the 1960s, it’s also been used to reverse the effects of carbon monoxide poisoning. Today, HBOT is used to speed recovery from a variety of health problems, including infections, burns, injuries, tissue death, traumatic brain injury, and anemia.
How HBOT Boosts the Healing Process
During HBOT, patients sit in a specially designed chamber and breathe pure oxygen. While the air we normally breathe contains only 21% oxygen, the oxygen level inside the HBOT chamber is 100%. The chamber is also pressurized to 150-300%, which speeds up the delivery of oxygen to your tissues. As blood oxygen levels increase and the body becomes saturated, more oxygen is delivered to cells and tissues, enhancing their ability to repair themselves. This stimulates the body’s natural healing processes:
Substance use overrides the body’s ability to clear toxins, which accumulate over time. It damages cells and organs, including the brain and digestive organs. The restorative effect of increased blood oxygen levels can help reduce symptoms of substance misuse, such as muscle pain, anxiety and irritability. One study on HBOT’s role in brain damage recovery2 found that it may also reduce symptoms of Korsakoff’s, a syndrome caused vitamin B1 deficiency as a result of alcohol misuse.
Essentially, HBOT is one way treatment providers can heal the effects of addiction on a cellular level. And because it’s simple, has few, minor side effects, and requires no downtime, some rehabs find it a favorable option for supplementing clients’ treatment experience. Beyond treating symptoms of addiction, HBOT can also improve mood and energy levels, as well as help meet their overall health goals.
How Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy Works
HBOT is delivered in chambers designed either for individual use or for multiple people to use at a time. For individual treatment, patients lie on a table that slides into a clear tube, similar to an MRI machine. For group sessions, patients sit in a pressurized room and breathe oxygen through masks. In either case, a HBOT technician or trained medical professional is present throughout the session, which typically lasts for 1 to 2 hours.
Once patients are inside, oxygen is pumped into the chamber and the pressure gradually increases. When this happens, it’s common to feel your ears “pop” like they do during an elevation change. During the session, clients can relax with a TV show or a book, or simply rest. Once the time is up, air pressure is slowly lowered to normal levels. If necessary, your clinical team will assess several points including your blood pressure, pulse, and blood glucose for those who have diabetes. Most people find HBOT easy, painless, and even calming.
How Many Sessions Do I Need?
How many sessions you need depends on your condition, but you’ll likely need more than 1 to see results. Your treatment team can help you decide how many to attend. Check with your treatment facility to see how many sessions their program includes. This may vary according to your individual treatment plan.
Let’s take a look at how HBOT works at a few rehabs:
All Points North Lodge, Colorado, USA
All Points North Lodge partners with a local hyperbaric physical therapy clinic, who provides a technician to oversee each session. Their website describes their HBOT process:3
“After speaking with the tech before your session, you’ll slide into the glass tube that’s equipped with a pad and pillow. Once you’ve settled in, the tech will manage the pressure and oxygen within the chamber. While that happens, you can turn on your favorite Netflix show on the nearby TV, relax, doze off, and enjoy some quiet time alone. During this time, you’ll be under the medical supervision of the HBOT tech and can communicate any questions or concerns you may have at any time throughout the process.”
HBOT at All Points North Lodge is available as an optional add-on to their treatment program, or as a standalone therapy who wish to come to the Lodge solely for this purpose. Their admissions team offers assessments to interested clients to help them determine whether or not they’re a good candidate.
Castle Craig, Edinburgh, Scotland
HBOT at Castle Craig takes place in a 12-person hyperbaric chamber, located onsite and overseen by a local non-profit provider. According to their treatment team, HBOT helps Castle Craig’s clients:4
dramatically reduce opioid withdrawal symptoms
better regulate their emotions
improve sleep quality
increase stem cell production by 800%
repair damage to organs including the pancreas, liver, and brain
During the session, clients sit on cushioned seats inside the chamber and watch TV, rest, or read. This service is optional and comes with an additional cost.
Paracelsus Recovery, Zurich, Switzerland
Paracelsus Recovery offers HBOT as one option in the wide array of specialized therapies that make up its bespoke program. According to their team, “Prolonged use of drugs and alcohol can alter the brain’s chemical makeup and ultimately lead to loss of brain function and cell death. Although the body is incredibly self-healing, it may reach a point that it is unable to counteract the effects without help. HBOT treatments can restore life to dormant cells and awaken dormant cells and generate new, healthy cells.”
Goodsky Mental Health Retreat utilizes the tissue- and muscle-repairing benefits of HBOT to help pain management6 clients. This service is part of their personalized program for issues such as chronic pain, trauma-related pain, traumatic brain injury, and mental health disorders.
Is Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy Effective for Treating Addiction?
HBOT not a new therapy, but its application in addiction and mental health treatment has only recently become more common, and more research needs to be done on its effectiveness in this area. However, some studies demonstrate its promise as an effective treatment for those in recovery:
One study on hyperbaric oxygenation in the treatment of drug and alcohol addiction7 found that, “Exposure to hyperbaric oxygenation had a favorable effect on the patient’s status during sessions and persisted for some time after them… A comparative clinical and psychopathological examination of patients in both groups showed accelerated reduction of psychoneurological and somatovegetative disorders, this bringing about an approximately twofold decrease of treatment duration and preventing the development of complications.”
Another study published in the Journal of Neurotrauma found that HBOT improved overall cognitive functioning8 in veterans with blast-induced traumatic brain injury and PTSD.
And a study in the neuroscience journal Brain Research to determine the effectiveness of HBOT for opiate withdrawal9 found that “hyperbaric oxygen treatment suppresses withdrawal signs in morphine-dependent mice.”
Is HBOT Officially Approved?
The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) acknowledges that HBOT is effective for treating health problems10 beyond just decompression sickness. But it also warns about false claims that HBOT is a cure-all:
“If you are considering the use of a HBOT device for yourself or a loved one, be aware that some claims of what it can do are unproven. For example, HBOT devices are not proven to cure cancer, Lyme disease, autism or Alzheimer’s disease.”
The FDA recommends that those considering this therapy first consult their primary care provider. You can also check with the regulatory agency that governs HBOT: “If your health care provider recommends HBOT, the FDA advises that you go to a hospital or facility that has been inspected and is properly accredited by the Undersea and Hyperbaric Medical Society.”11
Rehabs use HBOT as an “off-label” therapy. That is, it’s approved for certain conditions, but can also be beneficial for others. And centers who use the therapy to treat addition and mental health-related symptoms say their clients see positive results. According to Paracelsus, “Many people report improved memory, heightened alertness, increased energy, and an overall increase in health and wellbeing after as few as 10 treatments, although more treatments may be required.”
Risks and Side Effects of HBOT
The side effects of HBOT are generally minimal, and usually affect the eyes, ears, or sinuses due to increased pressure. When they do occur, these effects may include the following:
temporary vision changes resulting from effects on the eye lens
ear issues due to changes in air pressure
low blood sugar in people who have diabetes treated with insulin
lung collapse (rare)
Most side effects of HBOT are nominal and short-lived, but there is a small risk of a serious condition called oxygen toxicity, which results from too much oxygen in the central nervous system. Johns Hopkins Medicine outlines its risks:
“In rare, severe cases, a person can get oxygen poisoning.12 This can lead to seizures, fluid in the lungs, lung failure, or other problems. Considering the possible risks and benefits, the decision to use hyperbaric oxygen therapy must be carefully made after a detailed discussion with your healthcare provider.”
HBOT is not advised for clients who have ear, sinus, or respiratory issues (including colds and congestion), or for pregnant women.
Making HBOT a Part of Your Recovery
HBOT isn’t for everyone, but if it is right for you, it could potentially complement your recovery process and support your bodily systems as they heal from the effects of addiction. To learn how this and other therapies can benefit your recovery journey, visit our searchable directory of rehabs to see program information and reach out to centers directly.
You’ve probably heard of the 12 Steps, but what exactly does this approach to recovery entail? The 12 Steps provide a guideline to recovery itself, and the programs supplement treatment. Attending meetings provides you with social support and the means to maintain sobriety after rehab. Many people enjoy these aspects of this approach, and choose to attend 12-Step meetings in rehab and after returning home.
But while popular, 12-Step rehab isn’t for everyone. For one, the 12 Steps are rooted in Christianity, which may not resonate with people of different religious backgrounds or frameworks for understanding the world. And while these groups provide important social support, they’re not the only way to find community. But many people enjoy the spirituality component, as well as the robust social structure these groups provide.
Let’s take a closer look at what 12-Step recovery entails, and what other options exist, as you determine what approach sits best with you.
What Is 12-Step Recovery?
In 12-Step programs, people follow 12 designated steps to recovery. Members gather regularly as a group to review the Steps, share their stories, and get support for their challenges. These 12-Step meetings can be in person (called face-to-face, or F2F), online, or via phone, all around the world. Meetings might take place in a number of places: office buildings, churches, rehab centers—even parks or beaches.
After you finish rehab, you can continue attending meetings with 12-Step groups. Most cities have some kind of 12-Step program. Membership is open to anyone—the only requirement is a desire to change.
Many people attribute their recovery success to their involvement with the Steps. In fact, numerous studies reveal that involvement in A.A. increases the likelihood that people will stay sober.1 Members take comfort in the structure and social support the community provides, which could contribute to higher rates of abstinence.
What Happens at 12-Step Meetings?
Most 12-Step programs follow a similar format. For example, A.A. meetings often open with a “chair” (an A.A. member who leads the meeting) reciting the A.A. Preamble (a short passage about A.A.’s mission).2 They might follow the passage with a moment of silence or a prayer. Newcomers can introduce themselves, which is encouraged but not required. Then, members might read from “The Big Book,”3 which outlines a template for recovery. Depending on the meeting, members might discuss a chosen topic, speak about their journeys, or review a Step. After meetings, people might mingle, meet newcomers and others, and exchange contact information. This format is similar to other 12-Step programs.
In A.A., meetings can be open or closed.4 Open meetings invite anyone to attend, even friends or family of the person with the addiction. Closed meetings are only open to members themselves.
And according to Alcoholics Anonymous, the purpose of all A.A. meetings5 is for people to “share their experience, strength and hope with each other that they may solve their common problem and help others to recover.” This is the foundation for the 12 Steps.
The idea is that working through these steps will help you heal. But there aren’t necessarily any rules about how you approach them—you can follow them in order, or not. You can come back to different steps whenever you need to—whichever feels most relevant to what you’re going through. And while many of the steps reference “God,” you’re welcome to replace that with a higher power of your own choosing.
Spirituality and the 12 Steps
While the 12 Steps refer to a higher power—in this case, God—and have roots in Christianity, you don’t have to be Christian to attend meetings. In fact, you don’t need to have any religious background. It is helpful to be open to some degree of spirituality, especially since the goal of the 12th Step is to have a spiritual awakening. The program encourages members to develop a spiritual practice and to incorporate activities like meditation and prayer into their lives.
While spirituality is an important part of the 12 Steps for many people, the social factor is just as important—if not more.
Social Support in 12-Step Programs
People receive almost instant social support from 12-Step groups. You’ll be in a room full of people that have similar experiences and goals—and that makes it much easier to feel connected. And meeting other sober people is an essential part of the recovery process. People in A.A. find hope in being around others on the same journey.7 “The people I met thought like me,” said one member. “For the first time in my life, I felt like I wasn’t so crazy.”
Another member reflects: “I remember sitting in the A.A. meeting, and thinking, I’ve finally found a place where I belong.”
Cutting ties with people who cue you to do things you’re working hard not to is a painful part of the recovery process. But the upside is that it creates more room in your life for relationships that support your well-being and growth. 12-Step groups make it easy to meet people with common goals, and even facilitate deeper connections by encouraging people to find sponsors. Sponsorship can have a profound impact on your success in sobriety—especially as a newcomer.
The Importance of Sponsorship in 12-Step Programs
Most 12-Step organizations connect people with a sponsor.9 A sponsor is a more senior member who supports your recovery journey. They’re available to talk to outside of meetings and can be a real lifeline in times of need. Sponsors also benefit from this relationship. Sharing what they’ve learned provides an opportunity to give back to the A.A. community, while reinforcing their own choice to live a sober life. It’s often helpful to find a sponsor with a similar background or experience, who can relate to you. They can share advice, hold space for what you’re going through, and be a place to turn to when you come up against an inevitable challenge.
One Crystal Meth Anonymous (C.M.A.) member describes how he owes much of his recovery to his sponsor.10 “I often think about how simple this tool is,” he says. “It helped me stay clean and sober that first year, especially in the face of so many challenges and temptations.” For example, soon after getting sober, he received a text from someone inviting him to do drugs again. He immediately thought of his sponsor, and how disappointed he’d be if he accepted. So instead of replying, he blocked the number.
“Everyone thinks their sponsor is the best, but I really believed it,” he said.
My sponsor demonstrated brotherly love, invested many, many hours, and instilled in me an unshakeable faith that gave me the strength and commitment to rebuild my life. For that, I am forever grateful.
In this program, is attending 12-Step groups mandatory?
How much time will I spend in individual therapy, compared to time spent in groups?
Do all of your 1-on-1 therapists use the 12 Steps as a framework for recovery?
Will I be able to choose my own therapist?
Do your 12-Step groups include a sponsorship program?
In your philosophy, what does it mean for clients to connect with a higher power?
Does your program welcome people of all faiths?
Do you connect alumni with local support groups or 12-Step meetings after they complete inpatient treatment?
The more you know, the better. This will help prepare you for both rehab and your new life afterwards. But if you make the decision that the 12-Step approach isn’t for you, there are plenty of other options.
What Is Non-12-Step Recovery?
Non-12-Step programs are exactly that—any approach that doesn’t follow the 12-Step methodology. This can be anything from experiential to holistic to evidence-based treatment, and so much more. How you choose to go about recovery is entirely up to you.
Popular Non-12-Step Approaches to Choose From
While non-12-Step approaches can fall into many different categories, some are more commonly seen in treatment:
Experiential therapy, also known as “learning by doing,” encourages you to try different activities—like art or outdoor pursuits—to initiate healing.
Holistic approaches focus on the patient as a whole person, with healing methods aiming to connect the mind, body, and spirit. These programs usually employ alternative methods like yoga, meditation, and acupuncture to promote recovery.
Non-12 Step programs are usually secular, meaning they don’t follow any particular religious guidelines. However, you can also attend rehab facilities that don’t follow a 12-Step approach but still have a spiritual emphasis. These may cater to specific faiths or be non-religious.
Note that while these are just some treatment approaches available outside of 12-Step, many more exist. Exploring rehabs by treatment approach can be a great way to learn more.
Building Sober Community Outside of 12 Step
12-Step programs are renowned for their fellowship aspect, but that doesn’t mean you can’t find sober community without one! While you’ll form relationships in rehab, it’s important to have a plan in place for securing a support network beyond it.
Non-12-Step Support Groups
And not all support groups for people in recovery follow the 12 steps. Some organizations don’t follow a spiritual model at all, like SMART Recovery and LifeRing. Similar to 12-Step programs, these groups have meetings in person or online, all over the globe.
Interest-Based Groups and Activities
Finding ways to have fun without substances is an important part of staying sober. Abstinence without meaning and joy isn’t very motivating! Boredom and loneliness are common in early recovery—and are also known relapse triggers. Getting involved in new hobbies, meet-up groups, and activities can be a great way to avoid feeling idle and make new friends in the process. These can range from picking up an old sport to learning a new skill. Look for adult classes, meet-ups, and community events in your city. Your rehab may even offer to help with this as part of your relapse prevention and aftercare plan.
Stepping Into a New Life Chapter
The 12-Step method may just be what works best for you. Or it may not be your thing, and that’s completely fine. It’s also possible (and common) to combine recovery approaches. For example, you might choose to enroll at a non-12-Step rehab, then attend 12-Step groups to maintain your sobriety after treatment. There are multiple paths to recovery, and facilities that can offer exactly what you’re looking for.
With any approach you choose, remember to be patient with yourself. Healing isn’t always straightforward. You might hit bumps in the road here and there, but it’s important to keep going. Remind yourself why you started your recovery journey, and reach out for help when you need it.
See rehab facilities that offer 12-Step and non-12-Step programs to find options that interest you, compare prices, take a virtual tour, and more.
If you’re considering residential rehab, you might be feeling the need to get away from it all. You might also notice that many treatment centers are located in remote, naturally beautiful settings—and with good reason.
Spending time in nature has a powerful calming effect, and can help set you up for success in recovery. Rehab programs around the country employ the healing powers of the great outdoors, with experiential therapies like hiking, beach walks, and adventure outings forming a core part of the curriculum.
Any of these techniques helps you connect with yourself and the world around you: a relationship the recovery journey aims to right.
What Is Ecotherapy?
Ecotherapy, or nature therapy, is a broad term that loosely describes doing any outdoor activity with the goal of recovery. It can take place informally or in a clinical context, in a group or on your own. It’s not officially recognized in the DSM-5, but it is commonly employed by rehabs around the world.
Nature itself has therapeutic benefits.1 In therapies that use nature immersion, patients spend time outside as part of the recovery process. In some programs, these activities have specific therapeutic goals. In others, patients use mindfulness techniques to soak up the peace and quiet of the world around them.
Getting outside can provide perspective that helps with the challenges of recovery.
Engaging with nature has immediate emotional benefits.4 And research suggests that this is due to our evolutionary history. Our early ancestors relied on fresh water and vegetation to stay alive. Over time, we came to associate those resources with a sense of safety. Perhaps as a result, the human brain still responds well to these environments.
By spending time outdoors, you can tap into ancestral memories of safety. And when you feel safe, it’s easier to focus on healing.
Ways to Immerse in the Natural World
As a treatment, nature immersion takes many forms. You might meditate in a forest preserve, enjoy a guided walk, or get your hands dirty in the garden. And your treatment center might offer different outdoor therapies based on their staffing, location, and approach. Talk to your rehab’s admissions team to find out more about their available options.
Forest bathing, or shinrin-yoku, originated in Japan.5 This is the practice of using all your senses to be present and mindful in a forest setting. When you go forest bathing, you use mindfulness to take in your surroundings. You might focus on the coolness of river water, the scent of fallen leaves, or the sound of birdsong. An expert may guide you through meditation, or you may spend time in the forest alone.
Guided Nature Walks
Some rehabs offer guided nature walks.6 Whereas forest bathing is meditative and mostly unstructured, guided walks are led by certified guides. These are normally group activities.
A guided walk usually lasts for around 2-4 hours, during which you’ll share thoughts with the group as you enjoy the outdoors. Guides invite you to observe the life and landscapes around you, from swaying trees to colorful skies. By focusing on your immediate surroundings, you’ll find it easier to let go of the small things and find a sense of awe for the larger world.
Once the group is emotionally grounded, guides might engage you in a sensory experience like running your hands through the grass or smelling the flowers. This connection with the Earth brings you back into the present, and back into your own body.
Finally, you’ll have time for reflection. Your guide might ask you to meditate or write about the experience. This helps ease the transition back into the rest of your routine. Ideally, you’ll return to it feeling more centered and calm.
Gardening Therapy
You don’t have to be deep in a forest to reap the benefits of nature therapy. Horticulture therapy,7 or caring for plants, is a great way to destress and focus on the present. This is a great option for people with limited mobility, or those who don’t have off-site privileges at their rehab.
Whether you spend time in a garden or just water your bedside fern every morning, plant therapy lets you care for something outside yourself. You can also see the impact your touch has on another living thing. Every new sprout is thanks to your contribution of water, the right amount of sunlight, and attention.
Spending time in nature can improve a wide variety of issues, from chronic pain to anxiety. And studies show that it’s especially helpful for people with certain conditions.
If you have chronic pain, nature immersion can help with both its physical and mental effects. One study found that nature immersion not only relieved pain;13 it also boosted patients’ immune responses. They also reported decreased symptoms of depression.
Nature therapy is a tried-and-true treatment for mental health. A growing body of research supports its use in rehab. And, it specifically benefits people in addiction recovery in several ways:
Unhealthy as it is, addiction is a coping mechanism. And when you enter recovery, you’ll need to develop new, healthier strategies. Spending time in nature can be an exciting way to connect with people, without using drugs.
Clinical Director Brenna Gonzales explains why The Hope House Scottsdale places so much emphasis on getting outside:
Most people living with addiction are stuck in their houses and are alone. To be outdoors, to reconnect with nature and themselves, gives people the opportunity to experience life again. There are mountains all around The Hope House. Some of the best hikes in Phoenix city are within five minutes of us. We also have a pool that clients can use daily. We take any opportunity we can to get people outside.
“Nature is the biggest distraction we like to have.”
Dr. Thomas Gazda, Medical Director at Soberman’s Estate, talks about how important it is for patients to unplug from distractions and focus on one another:
Residential rehab takes a person out of their normal environment. These days we have so many distractions at our fingertips: our cell phones, laptop, computers, television. There’s just so many distractions out there and we want to try and get away from that here. Nature is the biggest distraction we like to have out here. It’s a peaceful, quiet distraction. Something that can actually get you more in touch with yourself. It also allows for a certain kind of comradery amongst the patients here because they’re living with each other. They get to know each other, there’s a bond that forms.
If you prefer solo adventures, you can still relax in nature alone. Swimming in a body of water, hiking to a viewpoint, or even walking in the park can go a long way toward clearing your mind and bringing you back in sync with life. This valuable you-time creates space for your feelings, even when recovery is challenging.
Relaxing and Reflecting on Your Recovery Journey
The natural world holds many lessons. Simply observing it can help you connect with something greater than yourself. And nature-based therapies take that a step further, teaching you how to accept the present moment. In turn you can learn to accept yourself, just as you are, at every point on your healing journey.
To reconnect with nature during recovery, explore a list of rehabs offering experiential treatment and learn about their locations, housing options, complementary therapies, and more.
So you’ve done the hard work of detoxing. But now you’re having trouble remembering details. Or, you’re even more anxious than you were when you first quit. These feelings can be overwhelming, and you might not understand why. For many people, there’s a simple answer.
Post-acute withdrawal syndrome (PAWS) refers to a group of symptoms that continue long after you stop using drugs or alcohol. This condition can make it hard to focus on the work you’re doing in rehab. Thankfully, many rehab centers are prepared to treat PAWS. Talk to your providers, so they can help you manage your symptoms and avoid relapse.
What Is Post-Acute Withdrawal Syndrome?
PAWS, sometimes known as prolonged withdrawal syndrome, is a set of symptoms you experience after you’ve already gone through initial detox and withdrawal. ((Post-Acute Withdrawal Syndrome (PAWS) | Semel institute for Neuroscience and Human Behavior. (n.d.). Retrieved from https://www.semel.ucla.edu/dual-diagnosis-program/News_and_Resources/PAWS)) It can last for weeks to years after you last use drugs.
Almost all drugs have the potential to cause this condition. And if you’re recovering from alcohol, benzos, or opioids, you’re more likely to experience PAWS. In fact, 90% of people recovering from opioid addiction and 75% of people recovering from alcohol or other drug addictions have post-acute symptoms.
The Symptoms of PAWS
While regular withdrawal symptoms are mental, physical, and emotional, PAWS symptoms are mainly psychological. It’s common to feel these effects of protracted withdrawal: ((Substance Abuse Treatment Advisory: Protracted Withdrawal. (2010). Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration Center for Substance Abuse Treatment.))
These symptoms are similar for most people, but some substances lead to specific issues. For instance, people recovering from marijuana addiction often have strange dreams. And recovering from a benzodiazepine addiction can trigger obsessive-compulsive disorder or schizophrenia.
If you have acute withdrawal symptoms, they’ll set in immediately after detox. Some people also experience PAWS after that, but it may not set right away. You might not even have symptoms until 1-2 months into abstinence. Those symptoms might ebb and flow over time, or be triggered by stressful events.
The Causes of PAWS
When you consistently overuse a substance for a long time, it can make long-lasting changes to brain function. Usually, those changes are in the emotional or behavioral control centers. ((Abuse, N. I. on D. (2022, March 22). Drugs, Brains, and Behavior: The Science of Addiction. National Institute on Drug Abuse. https://nida.nih.gov/publications/drugs-brains-behavior-science-addiction/drugs-brain)) This explains why most PAWS symptoms are psychological.
How PAWS Affects Treatment
PAWS is frustrating at best. And at worst, it can interfere with your recovery. Data shows that PAWS is a common cause of relapse. ((Melemis, S. M. (2015). Relapse prevention and the five rules of recovery. The Yale Journal of Biology and Medicine, 88(3), 325–332. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4553654/))
Stressful events can be triggers, and starting residential treatment is stressful. It’s no wonder that PAWS can get worse when you arrive at rehab. In this early stage of recovery, patients’ ability to deal with stress is already reduced by recent substance abuse. Add in lack of sleep, mood swings, or increased anxiety, and it gets very difficult to stay focused on recovery.
In this phase of treatment, patients are still learning healthy coping skills.
PAWS can mirror the same feelings that lead to addiction.
If you used alcohol to deal with anxiety, then PAWS-related anxiety might be even harder to handle. Or, if you used benzos to sleep, insomnia caused by PAWS might trigger cravings.
These symptoms can lead to other mental health issues. For instance, PAWS might make you feel like you’re not making any progress. You might wonder why you’re still dealing with the lingering effects of your addiction long after you’ve stopped using. People with PAWS sometimes even “catastrophize their chances of recovery.” ((Melemis, S. M. (2015). Relapse prevention and the five rules of recovery. The Yale Journal of Biology and Medicine, 88(3), 325–332. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4553654/)) And these fears are valid. But with the right coping strategies, you can avoid relapse and recover from your addiction.
Plan for Success in Rehab
Recovery means more than quitting a substance. After detox, you’ll face the emotional issues that caused your addiction in the first place. It’s a lot for anyone to handle, even with professional support. And during early recovery, people are especially vulnerable to stress. (The Rebound Effect. (n.d.-a). Substance Misuse Prevention Newsletter: A Collection of Readings, 4(4). Thankfully, you can use certain techniques to manage that stress. And that’s the first step in healing from PAWS.
Come Prepared
You can prepare for PAWS even before you start detox. If you’re in inpatient treatment, you’ll be surrounded by experts who know how to help. If you’re not in rehab, you can talk to your doctor, therapist, or another healthcare provider. They’ll help you come up with a plan to manage ongoing symptoms. Then, if and when you’re triggered, you’ll already know what to do first.
Build Your Support System
Community support is vital to addiction recovery. ((Social support and stress as predictors of relapse in early recovery from alcohol and substance abuse—ProQuest. (n.d.). Retrieved from https://www.proquest.com/openview/89aae0f1bce52fe4e89b92a9caaa3bee/1?pq-origsite=gscholar&cbl=18750&diss=y)) In residential rehab, you can connect with other patients in the program. And outside a program, there are many different places to find support. Start by telling your therapist or doctor what symptoms you’re experiencing, so they can help you manage them. You can also attend group therapy or support groups to find peers going through the same thing.
Let your loved ones know how you’re feeling. Some symptoms, like mood swings or irritability, can put a strain on your relationships. By telling your support network about your symptoms, you’re offering them validation and support. In turn, that will help them support you.
Give Yourself Time Limits
A lot of people struggle with concentrating when they’re going through PAWS. And it can be frustrating to feel like you can’t focus. But there are several ways to work through this common symptom.
Instead of forcing yourself to concentrate, set a timer. Give yourself a limited amount of time to focus on one task. Start small. Limit yourself to 10 or 15 minutes, and then take a break. As your attention span improves, you can gradually increase the amount of time on the timer. Gradually increase the amount of time as you notice you’re able to concentrate for longer.
Keep Moving
Physical exercise can be a valuable part of addiction treatment. Staying active gives you a way to focus your excess energy. It also lets you practice new coping skills, which you can continue using in every stage of recovery. And best of all, the benefits of physical activity match up with some of the most common issues caused by PAWS.
Physical fitness improves both physical and mental health. ((CDC. (2022, June 16). Benefits of physical activity. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.)) Specifically, it helps people sleep, reduces anxiety and depression, and improves thinking and judgment skills. Keeping active can also help you manage your stress, which may help prevent flare-ups.
As effective as physical activity can be, it’s not right for everyone. If your body is still recovering from addiction, you might not be ready for strenuous exercise. That’s also true for people with chronic conditions, including chronic pain. It’s important to know your own limits. The better you understand your needs, the more easily you can meet them.
Learn Your Triggers
Because stressful events can intensify PAWS, managing stress can help you heal. Start by identifying stressful situations. In some cases, you can avoid these. If reality TV stresses you out, you can just change the channel. But it’s not always that simple. Sometimes, types of stress are unavoidable. For instance, talking about trauma in therapy can be stressful. But that doesn’t mean you should avoid it. Instead, prepare yourself before entering these situations. Rehab can help you grow coping skills you can use to face triggers.
Be Patient With Yourself
It can take anywhere from 6 to 24 months to recover from PAWS. ((Carty , B. (2016). Post-Acute Withdrawal Syndrome. University of Texas Health School of Biomedical Informatics. https://sbmi.uth.edu/heroes/documents/Post-Acute-Withdrawal.pdf?language_id=1)) Some people may find themselves dealing with it for years after that. Eventually, though, your symptoms will go away. Until then, be patient with your progress. Celebrate small wins. Some days may be more difficult than others, but every moment is another step forward. Treatment can also pave the way for a faster recovery—or just an easier one.
Treatment Options for PAWS
Coping strategies are essential, but they’re just one part of healing. You can also make use of more formal treatments to heal from PAWS. ((Post-Acute Withdrawal Syndrome (PAWS) | Semel institute for Neuroscience and Human Behavior. (n.d.). Retrieved from https://www.semel.ucla.edu/dual-diagnosis-program/News_and_Resources/PAWS)) Talk to your care team to see which of these options fits into your recovery plan:
medications, such as acamprosate ((Post-Acute Withdrawal Syndrome (PAWS) | Semel institute for Neuroscience and Human Behavior. (n.d.). Retrieved from https://www.semel.ucla.edu/dual-diagnosis-program/News_and_Resources/PAWS)) for recovery from alcohol addiction, or methadone ((Protracted Withdrawal.(2010). Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration. https://store.samhsa.gov/sites/default/files/d7/priv/sma10-4554.pdf)) for recovery from opioid use disorder
psychotherapy
behavioral therapy
group therapy sessions
Depending on your needs, these modalities may be a good fit in many stages of recovery. Because of this, they can help treat long-term symptoms of PAWS. Some treatments, like talk therapy, may even be helpful long after you complete inpatient rehab.
Managing PAWS Is a Step Toward Recovery
Early recovery can be overwhelming. Your life is changing rapidly—and so is your brain chemistry. PAWS symptoms can make it feel hard to keep up.
Remember that you set the pace of your recovery. There’s no external timeline you have to follow. By accepting your own symptoms, you can practice self-compassion and self-love. And that’s an important part of healing from addiction.
Don’t let PAWS get in the way of your recovery. Connect with an inpatient rehab center to learn about their treatment methods, onsite medical care, pricing, and more.
