Category: Blog

Posted on

How Can I Pay for Treatment? 6 Ways to Afford Mental Health and Addiction Care

Cost shouldn’t stand between you and the mental health or addiction treatment you need. While treatment programs can be expensive, there are ways to make care more affordable. 

These are some of the most common ways people pay for treatment. We’ll help you understand what to expect, what questions to ask, and how to find the financial support that works for your situation. If you’re ready to start your recovery process, you may have more options than you think to help cover the costs.

Bar chart comparing the average cost of treatment for addiction and mental health care with and without insurance across 5 program types: medical detox, inpatient rehab, partial hospitalization, intensive outpatient, and individual therapy.

1. Use Your Insurance Benefits

Most health insurance plans in the U.S. do cover mental health and addiction treatment.1 Since the Affordable Care Act (ACA) was passed, insurance companies are required to treat mental health services the same way they treat medical services. This means your coverage for therapy, rehab, or other treatment can’t be more restrictive than coverage for things like surgery or hospital stays.

However, insurance companies decide what they think is “medically necessary,”2 which means they might say no to treatment even when your doctor recommends it. Your insurance may cover some or all of your treatment costs; eligibility depends on your plan and whether they approve your care.

Most private rehab centers accept insurance and offer multiple payment options to help make treatment accessible. Some facilities also accept Medicare or Medicaid, though coverage can vary by state and provider.

How to Verify Benefits and Understand Behavioral Health Coverage

Before starting treatment, call your insurance company directly to understand your benefits. A customer service representative can walk you through your coverage details and help you understand what you’ll pay out of pocket.

Here are the key questions to ask your insurance provider:

  • What treatment programs does my policy cover?
  • Does my plan cover the full spectrum of care (detox, rehab, and continuing care)?
  • How much will I need to pay out of pocket?
  • What will my deductible and copayment be?
  • How many days of treatment are covered?
  • Will my insurance cover prescribed medications?
  • Does my plan cover out-of-network treatment centers?

You can also ask your treatment center’s admissions team to help verify your benefits. Many centers have staff who specialize in insurance and can help you understand your coverage before you start treatment.

Infographic showing key financial questions to ask before entering addiction or mental health treatment, including what to ask your treatment center and insurance company about coverage, out-of-pocket costs, and payment options.

2. Understand Treatment Costs by Level of Care

The cost of your treatment will also depend on how intensive it is. Here’s what you can expect for detox, inpatient, outpatient, and ongoing therapy:

Medical Detox

Some inpatient rehabs have detox facilities on-site; in other cases, detox is handled at a separate facility. In either case, medical detox is usually an additional cost above and beyond the price of your residential treatment program. 

Medical detox costs3 vary widely based on the level of care you need. Standard inpatient detox typically costs $250–$800 per day, while supervised detox with 24/7 medical care runs $500–$650 per day. Outpatient detox costs around $1,000 per day but has lower overall costs since you go home each night. 

Keep in mind that these are general ranges. Your actual costs will depend on your insurance coverage, the specific facility you choose, and your individual needs while in treatment.

Inpatient (Residential) Treatment

In the U.S., most 30-day programs at private facilities cost between $25,000 to $50,000 per month, though the prices of residential rehab programs can range from under $10,000 to upwards of $80,000. If you travel to countries with lower costs of living, such as Thailand or India, programs often cost under $15,000 per month.

If you’re considering traveling for treatment, see our article on choosing between local and destination rehabs.

Partial Hospitalization Programs (PHPs)

These programs, which offer more intensive care than outpatient but allow you to go home each night, typically cost $3,500 to upwards of $10,000 at private facilities.

Learn more about the differences between intensive outpatient programs (IOPs) and partial hospitalization programs (PHPs) to find the right level of care for your needs in our guide: IOP vs. PHP: Which Treatment Is Best for You?

Outpatient Programs

Intensive outpatient programs (IOPs) in the U.S. range from $3,500 to over $10,000 depending on the length and number of sessions. Individual therapy with a private practitioner typically costs $65 to $250 per hour.

Graphic listing common mistakes people make when paying for addiction or mental health treatment, including assuming insurance covers everything, not asking for a cost breakdown, skipping questions about payment plans, and falling for predatory marketing.

3. Know How to Access Out-of-Network Providers

Sometimes the treatment program you really want to attend is not in your insurance network. This doesn’t mean you can’t access care there, but it does mean you’ll likely pay more out of pocket.

Options If Your Preferred Provider Isn’t Covered

If your preferred treatment center is out-of-network, you have several options. First, ask your insurance company if they offer any out-of-network benefits. Some plans will still cover a percentage of costs, even at non-network treatment facilities.

You can also ask the treatment center about their self-pay rates or cash pay discounts. Some centers have relationships with financing companies that can help you create affordable payment plans.

Another option is to ask your insurance company about single-case agreements. In some situations, especially when in-network options are limited, insurance companies will agree to cover an out-of-network health care provider at in-network rates.

Find more details in our complete guide to using insurance to pay for inpatient drug rehab.

4. Ask About Payment Plans and Sliding Scales

Treatment centers understand that cost can be a barrier to care. That’s why most facilities offer flexible payment options to help make treatment more affordable.

What to Ask When Money Is Tight

If you’re concerned about costs, be upfront with your rehab’s admissions staff about your financial situation. Often, facilities can work with you to create a payment plan that fits your budget. Ask about:

  • Interest-free payment plans that let you spread costs over several months
  • Sliding-scale fees based on your income
  • Discounts for paying your balance in full upfront
  • Work-trade arrangements where you can reduce costs by helping with facility operations
  • Scholarships or hardship funds they might have available

Don’t be afraid to negotiate. Treatment centers want to help people get the care they need, and some have flexibility in their pricing. The worst they can say is no, but you might be surprised by what options are available.

5. Apply for Grants, Scholarships, and State Funding

Beyond insurance and payment plans, there are other sources of funding that can help cover treatment costs.

Public Resources and Nonprofit Support

Many states offer funding for addiction and mental health care through grants4 and public programs. Contact your state’s department of health or substance abuse agency to learn about programs in your area. These programs often have income requirements and may have waiting lists, but they can provide significant financial assistance.

Some nonprofit organizations also offer substance use disorder treatment scholarships. These might be available through professional associations, religious organizations, or foundations focused on mental illness and substance use disorders. Search online for “addiction treatment scholarships” or “mental health treatment grants” in your area.

If you’re a veteran, you may qualify for treatment through the VA healthcare system. Students might find resources through their college or university counseling centers, which often provide low-cost or free behavioral health services.

Always be wary of addiction treatment scams and rehab-owned referral sites posing as objective resources when searching for help online. Learn more in our article on how to avoid common addiction treatment center scams.

6. Get Help From an Insurance Advocate or Case Manager

Navigating insurance and treatment costs can be overwhelming, especially when you’re already facing a crisis. But luckily, you don’t have to figure it all out alone.

How Professionals Can Help Reduce Financial Stress

Many treatment centers employ insurance specialists or case managers who can help you understand your benefits and find ways to make treatment affordable. These professionals know the ins and outs of insurance coverage and can advocate on your behalf.

If your insurance claim gets denied, these advocates can help you appeal the decision. You have the right to appeal any denied claim through your insurance company’s internal review process, or through an independent external review if needed.

Some community-based organizations also have independent patient advocates or social workers who specialize in helping people access health care. Your doctor, local health department, or the 211 helpline (dial 2-1-1) can help you find these resources in your area.

Get Started Today

The most important step is to start exploring your options. Call your insurance company, reach out to treatment centers, and ask questions about costs and payment options. Treatment is an investment in your health and future, and there are people and resources available to help make it accessible.

You deserve support. And with the right financial planning, you can access the care you need.

Posted on

How Long Is Rehab for Drug and Alcohol Addiction?

The short answer is: it depends on your recovery goals. If you’re going through withdrawal, for instance, you may need short-term medical care. And after detox, most people go on to attend a 30-day rehab program. But many patients need more time in treatment—and that’s okay. As you compare different rehab programs, it’s important to think about how long your program will last. 

What Determines How Long Rehab Lasts?

Several factors affect how long you’ll spend in rehab. Your care team will evaluate your needs based on a number of criteria. 

How Severe Is Your Addiction?

Everyone’s experience of addiction is a little different. That includes the frequency and intensity of your drug use and your timeline for starting recovery. You could enter rehab with serious health issues due to years of untreated alcohol addiction. Or you might start treatment for meth addiction after taking it only a few times, already aware that you need help. Patients with more severe physical and mental health symptoms typically need more time in residential rehab. 

Do You Have Co-Occurring Disorders?

If you’re healing from co-occurring disorders, you may benefit from a longer stay. This gives your brain chemistry time to adjust—first to life without drug use, and then to any medications your care team prescribes. You may also need extra time to find the right types of treatment.

Are You Healing From Trauma?

Addiction and trauma often go hand in hand. Either one of these experiences can lead to the other. If you’re healing from both, your recovery journey might not be a linear experience. Some clients take a long time to unearth traumatic memories, and need expert care throughout that process. You could also find that after a short stay in rehab, returning home is the best way to continue your recovery. 

What Type of Treatment Do You Need?

There are many different ways to heal from drug addiction. In more traditional rehabs, you might start with detox and then go on to residential care. But some providers take a different approach. For example, ibogaine therapy is an alternative treatment that lasts just a few days. After you complete this type of therapy, you can return home, join an outpatient program, or go to residential rehab.

Other centers don’t adhere to a set timeline at all. In a rehab with individualized care, a team of experts will design a treatment plan just for you. Sometimes this means the length of the program itself can change to meet your needs. 

How Do You Respond to Treatment?

When you’re just starting recovery, you can only plan so far in advance. Your needs will almost certainly change over time. Along the way, you and your care team might decide you need more or less time in rehab than you originally planned. It’s important to remain flexible throughout your recovery journey. By taking adequate time to heal, you can set yourself up for long-term success.

The Length of Stay in Addiction Rehab

Although you can’t predict every aspect of your recovery, it’s still a good idea to think ahead. Talk to your doctor, therapist, or a rehab’s admissions team before you choose an addiction treatment program. They can recommend an initial length of stay, even if that changes in the future.

Short-Term Medical Detox

Medical detox can keep you safe during withdrawal. Depending on your health history, you may or may not need inpatient care at this stage. However, medical treatment is essential for people detoxing from alcohol, benzodiazepines, or opioids. Quitting these substances has serious physical side effects. In some cases, withdrawal can even be fatal.1 

Most detox programs last 1-2 weeks. During that time, your care team will keep you as comfortable as possible. You might see a doctor, nurses, psychiatrist, talk therapist, or other specialists. Some programs also offer complementary treatments like massage therapy.

Inpatient detox is just one step in your healing journey. Many programs require patients to plan for longer-term care before they start withdrawal. Then when you finish detox, you’ll go directly to rehab. 

30-Day Rehab Programs

For most patients, this is an average rehab stay. A 30-day program gives you plenty of time to get used to your new environment and focus on the hard work of recovery. But because it’s only a month, you won’t need to make long-term arrangements before you leave home. 

This time frame works well for people who need brief but specialized care so they can plug back into their lives. It’s an especially good fit for clients with a strong support network. You can turn inward while you start treatment, and reconnect with loved ones in the next stage of recovery.

A 30-day program can also help you keep your recovery private. High-profile clients might have a hard time explaining a long time out of the spotlight. 

60-Day Rehab Programs

If you have a more complex diagnosis, you might benefit from a longer stay in rehab. These programs can work well for people with multiple addictions. They can also help you recommit to recovery after relapse. 

Patients with co-occurring disorders may also need more time in treatment. It takes up to 6 weeks for most psychiatric medications to take full effect.2 If you start new meds when you arrive in rehab, it’s a good idea to stay until you know they’re working well. Otherwise, you might need to adjust your dosage as soon as you get home. Of course, this timeline depends on finding the right prescription shortly after arriving at rehab. Treatment sometimes takes more trial and error than that. 

90-Day Rehab Programs

These programs are a good fit for people who need highly specialized care. You’ll have time to find the right medications, try several different types of therapy, and get to know yourself again. In some rehabs, you can also spend this time building community with your peers. 

If you want to start treatment by attending a 90-day program, you’ll probably need to make certain arrangements in advance. For example, you might need to take time off work or hire a house sitter. And if you’re hoping to pay for treatment with insurance, check to see if it will cover this type of care. 

6-Month, 1-Year, and 2-Year Rehab Programs

An extended stay in rehab does more than kick-start your recovery. It offers you a whole new foundation. You’ll have time to reinvent yourself in a completely different context, without the pressure of the life you’re used to. 

When you attend a long-term program, you can expect things back home to change while you’re away. You may lose touch with certain people, or return to find they’ve changed as much as you have. That can be overwhelming—but it can also aid in your recovery. If you want to reenvision your life from a brand new perspective, this type of rehab can help you get started. 

Sober Living Environments

Sober living centers serve a different purpose than short-term treatment facilities. While these programs offer some structure, they rarely include clinical care. You may or may not attend therapy, or even have access to on-site staff. But you’ll still need to follow certain rules.

Most sober living environments require residents to pass regular drug tests. You’ll probably also join in mandatory activities, like support group meetings or shared meals. Residents can usually leave the house alone, but you might have to adhere to a curfew. 

With these structures in place, sober living centers encourage you to take control of your own life. You’ll probably get a job or go to school outside the house. You may need to pay rent or maintain a certain GPA to stay in the program. Some of these environments will limit the time you can live there, but others allow you to stay on indefinitely. 

Trust the Process

Healing is unpredictable. You might be able to choose how long you spend in rehab—but you can’t decide how long it will take to heal. Some clients need to extend their stay, and some return to treatment more than once. By staying present with yourself and your changing needs, you can make the best possible choices about your recovery. 

Search our list of rehabs to find detox programs, sober living environments, and everything in between.

Frequently Asked Questions About Length of Stay in Drug and Alcohol Rehab

What factors determine how long rehab lasts?

The duration of rehab depends on several factors, including the severity of addiction, underlying trauma, and the presence of co-occurring disorders. People with more severe physical and mental health symptoms typically require longer stays in residential rehab.

What are the different types of rehab programs and their durations?

Rehab programs vary in length based on individual needs. Short-term medical detox typically lasts 1-2 weeks, while 30-day residential programs are common for those who need brief but intensive care. Complex diagnoses or co-occurring disorders may require longer stays of 60-90 days. Extended rehab programs of 6 months, 1 year, or 2 years offer a more comprehensive foundation for recovery. Sober living environments provide structure to support your transition back to daily life.

Posted on

Natural Wellness at Mexico Rehabs

During rehab, you’ll have the opportunity to take a step back from unhealthy habits. By creating space between yourself and your daily life, you can gain a new perspective. If you go to rehab in Mexico, that distance can be both physical and philosophical.

Many of Mexico’s luxury rehab centers take a holistic approach to healing. During your stay, you won’t just attend talk therapy; you might also change your eating habits, get physical exercise, or take up meditation. These programs may even offer medical treatments that aren’t available in most areas, such as ibogaine therapy.

When you consider the area’s vibrant culture and beautiful landscape, it’s easy to see why so many facilities emphasize healthy lifestyles. Luxury rehabs in Mexico take full advantage of these resources, offering clients the opportunity to explore the countryside during treatment.

Mexico Is More Than a Tropical Paradise

Many people think of Mexico as having a tropical climate.1 And indeed, more than half of the country is located south of the Tropic of Cancer. As a result, the weather in that area is temperate, varying little from one season to the next. However, depending on your elevation, the average daily temperature may be as high as 77 degrees Fahrenheit (25 degrees Celsius) or as low as 59 degrees Fahrenheit (15 degrees Celsius). North of the tropics, in regions like Baja California and the Sonoran desert, temperatures vary more widely throughout the year.

The country has some highly populous areas, like Mexico City, as well as many rural destinations. While some rehab centers are close to downtown districts—and may even take their clients on shopping trips—most are located in remote areas. This gives clients the opportunity to retreat from the hustle and bustle of urban life, and to commune with the natural world. In these programs, clients are often invited to explore the surrounding landscape, using experiential therapy as one mode of healing.

Experiential Therapies in Mexico Rehabs

Mexico is “one of the world’s more biologically diverse countries”,2 encompassing vast deserts, tropical rainforests, mangrove swamps, and alpine ecosystems.” Its beautiful beaches are also popular travel destinations. In some programs, clients can visit these areas during treatment. While these experiences can be fun, they’re also important components of healing. Experiential therapy is known to have many benefits for people in recovery from substance use disorders.

Sports by the Sea

Depending on which program you attend, you may have access to a wide variety of seaside activities. At Twilight Recovery Center, for example, clients may go scuba diving. These experiences allow you to commune with nature while also getting exercise.

Mexico scuba diving
Mexico offers a variety of seaside activities, like snorkeling and scuba diving.

Substantial research supports the idea that exercise can benefit people in recovery from substance use disorders.3 While they may be physically challenging, these experiences are both safe and closely supervised. They also give you the opportunity to develop or improve a skill, build relationships with your cohort, and observe your own emotional responses in a new context.

For people who prefer not to engage in sports, there are many other ways to enjoy the beach. In some seasons, you may be able to go whale watching or witness the release of sea turtles. Some rehabs also take clients on fishing trips and boating tours. These experiences may be more accessible for some clients, depending on their physical condition.

Equine Therapy

Some Mexican rehab facilities, like Hacienda del Lago, invite clients to go horseback riding, or simply spend time among horses. A growing body of research has found that equine therapy has great benefits for people in recovery from substance use.4

This experience is “more than just a break from treatment.” It also lets you practice building relationships, without the pressure of connecting with other people. Many clients report that horses mirror their own behavior and emotions. This has important implications for people who are learning, or relearning, how to regulate difficult feelings in new contexts.

Hiking

Many rehab programs take their clients on regular excursions to visit naturally beautiful areas. Clients at Rē Precision Health, for example, may get the chance to explore waterfalls, beaches, and even the jungle.

Practitioners at this facility strongly believe in the healing effects of nature. This view is supported by a growing body of research, which demonstrates “significant associations between nature experiences and positive mental health outcomes”5 Like so many of the therapies available at Mexico’s rehabs, this holistic experience allows you to engage both body and mind.

Ibogaine Therapy in Mexico

In addition to experiential therapies, some rehabs in Mexico offer access to certain pharmaceutical treatments that are hard to find in other countries. In particular, ibogaine is an increasingly popular treatment for several mental health concerns, including substance use disorders.

clear sky recovery pool
Clear Sky Recovery in Cancun, Mexico.

This natural medicine, extracted from the African iboga shrub, “has great potential,” according to experts. “Small studies have suggested it can dramatically reduce drug cravings and withdrawal symptoms.”6 However, ibogaine is difficult to access in the United States. If you’re located in the U.S., and you’d like to use it to aid with recovery, you may have to travel abroad.

It’s especially easy to find ibogaine treatment in Mexico. Some rehab centers, like Iboga Quest, specialize in this type of therapy. Although the program is centered around ibogaine, it is offered in combination with well-known Western techniques. During the treatment process, clients are closely monitored by a medical team throughout the experience.

Clear Sky Recovery is another program offering this type of treatment. According to their team, the experience of ibogaine treatment may last for up to 24 hours, or sometimes even longer. During that time, the client enters a dreamlike state, and has the opportunity to relive core memories and gain new insight into their own psyche.

Ibogaine can be extremely effective for many clients. However, it “is not a miracle cure,” cautions Álvaro de Ferranti, Founder of Tabula Rasa Retreat in Portugal. “It is, however, an incredibly effective detox tool and an addiction interrupter.”

“The beauty of ibogaine is that it allows someone to resolve issues deep down.”

– Álvaro de Ferranti, Founder of Tabula Rasa Retreat

With or without the use of ibogaine, many treatment programs take a similarly holistic approach to wellness. For example, you might talk about core memories in therapy, or access a dreamlike state through mindful meditation. There are countless natural ways to delve deep into your emotional experience. And these techniques are easy to find in Mexico’s rehab centers.

Holistic Treatment in Mexico

Holistic recovery may incorporate a variety of therapeutic techniques. Sometimes these methods are offered alongside evidence-based strategies. Some 12-Step programs even utilize holistic strategies alongside groups like A.A. and N.A. In other rehab centers, clients only engage in these natural methods instead of using more clinical strategies.

Natural Detox

Narconon Latin America, which is founded on the principles of Scientology, guides clients through an entirely drug-free detox process. This may be a good fit for clients who want to engage in total abstinence as part of recovery.

However, it’s important to note that this type of detox may not be physically safe for all clients. Make sure you check with your doctor before undergoing this type of treatment, to make sure it doesn’t represent a significant risk. Some clients may need to use prescription medications in order to stay healthy during detox and recovery.

If this detox style isn’t right for you, there are many other ways to use natural and holistic methods during recovery.

Mindfulness Practices

Several rehabs in Mexico teach mindfulness techniques, such as yoga, breathwork, and meditation. These activities may be integrated into your daily schedule, or they may be electives.

yoga mindfulness
Mindfulness practices, such as yoga, are often incorporated into treatment programs at rehabs in Mexico.

Mindfulness empowers you to stay present in each moment. As this technique grows increasingly popular, some are starting to dismiss it as being too trendy. However, mindfulness is an ancient practice whose efficacy is supported by modern science.7

These skills are known to improve attention, compassion, and resilience to stress. They are especially useful for people in recovery. Connecting to your current—and ever-changing—emotional state may help you consistently make healthy choices. This skill may become a lifelong practice that you continue long after completing in-patient treatment.

Healthy Eating

Daily habits have a huge impact on your mental health. With that in mind, several Mexico rehabs focus on physical health and good nutrition. Some locations, like Moffitt Wellness Retreat, serve gourmet meals and natural, fresh-pressed juices, inviting you to enjoy the healthy pleasures life has to offer.

It’s extremely common for people with substance use disorders to experience nutrient deficiencies. However, “there is no special nutritional assessment or guidance” for people in recovery. To support your unique dietary needs, your team may help you develop a customized nutrition program,8 which will dictate your diet during residential treatment.

Life-Long Aftercare

Oceanica Treatment Center, in Sinaloa, Mexico, is a resort-like rehab that offers highly personalized treatment. Their program is tailored to meet your changing needs during every step of the recovery process—even after you finish inpatient treatment.

Most rehabs help clients plan for aftercare, and some offer even more extensive aftercare services. Oceanica Treatment Center goes above and beyond. “​​Once clients finish the residential phase, weekly monitoring is provided via telephone. Monitoring includes contact with family members (if the client allows) and provides support during the recovery process. The aftercare program also has weekly therapeutic groups that are in person or virtual. This aftercare process lasts 6 months, but Oceanica maintains relationships with the graduates for a lifetime through virtual communication or in-person alumni get-togethers.”

Recovery is a lifelong process, and like any healing journey, it comes with ups and downs. This approach ensures that you’ll always have the support you need, even after you leave residential rehab.

Traveling to Rehab in Mexico

If you’ll be traveling internationally to attend rehab in Mexico, make sure you talk to your rehab program’s admissions team before planning the details of your trip. Regulations vary from country to country, and may also be based on your country of citizenship. Since 2020, travelers have been subject to even greater restrictions, which may continue to change significantly over short periods of time. It’s important to research local and federal regulations in advance. Note that different airlines also have their own safety protocols; make sure to choose one that meets your specific needs.

If you’re a U.S. citizen flying into Mexico, you’ll need a valid U.S. passport book; passport cards may not be accepted. If you’re traveling by car, you may need a special vehicle permit. This is subject to change depending on where you cross the border. You’ll also need to obtain a tourist visa if you plan to stay in the country for more than 180 days. Although this exceeds the length of most rehab programs, it may impact your plans for aftercare.

For people who are just beginning detox and recovery, it’s important to streamline the travel process as much as possible. In order to minimize these logistics, most rehab facilities offer transportation to and from the nearest airport. It’s best to work with the staff at your rehab facility to plan the details of your trip. Remember that even before you arrive at rehab, you’re allowed to ask for the help you need.

Mexico’s Rehabs Make Recovery Meaningful

The act of traveling to rehab empowers clients to gain a new perspective on their daily lives. Physical distance not only separates you from potentially difficult situations; it can also give you much-needed emotional space. In that space, you can learn more about your own needs, goals, and values in a brand-new context.

In Mexico, residential treatment will also teach you how to live well, naturally. Your time there may focus less on medical treatment and more on the skills you need to navigate the world without substance use. These techniques are intended to be sustainable, accessible, and tailored to support a lifestyle you love.

As powerful as holistic healing can be, it’s not the right strategy for everyone. Some clients may need more medical support during detox and recovery. Others may benefit from highly clinical therapies, such as cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT). If you have reason to think you’d benefit from this type of approach, holistic therapy may be ineffective, or even counterproductive.

You have nothing to prove by choosing one rehab facility over another. This is a time to focus on your own mental health, above almost anything else. No matter how much a certain philosophy appeals to you on paper, it may or may not actually be the appropriate way for you to approach healing. If natural wellness sounds like the best possible way for you to begin recovery, a rehab in Mexico is likely to be a good fit. For those considering a broader range of options, you can choose from many other luxury rehabs that offer a variety of approaches and amenities that might better align with your needs.

Frequently Asked Questions About Rehab In Mexico

What are the benefits of luxury rehab in Mexico?

Luxury rehabs in Mexico offer several benefits: 

• Personalized treatment plans 
• Unique therapies including ibogaine therapy
• Experiential therapies
• World-class facilities
• Serene environments
• Experienced medical staff

How much does luxury rehab in Mexico cost?

The cost of luxury rehab in Mexico depends on factors such as treatment duration, level of treatment, amenities, and more. Some rehabs cost under $10,000 for a 30-day program. A majority of Mexico luxury rehabs cost between $10,000 to $25,000. These offer upscale amenities, luxurious accommodations, and highly specialized treatment.

What types of addiction treatment are available in luxury rehabs in Mexico?

Addiction treatment in Mexico covers the full spectrum of care. You can find detoxification programs, residential rehabs, outpatient programs, intensive outpatient programs (IOPs), and sober living. Many programs offer a range of treatments, including individual and group therapy, holistic approaches, complementary therapies like equine therapy, 12-step programs, family counseling, and aftercare planning to promote long-term recovery.

Posted on

Healing in Nature at Oregon’s Luxury Rehabs

You’ve heard of the seven wonders of the world—but the state of Oregon is home to its own seven wonders. From rocky Pacific beaches to the colorful, desert dunes of the Painted Hills, Oregon is home to one of the most diverse landscapes in the country. But people don’t just travel to Oregon for its natural beauty. Many come to heal.

People struggling with addiction come to Oregon for many reasons. Some are drawn to the state’s variety of outdoor activities, which include rock climbing, white water rafting, skiing, hiking, and more. Others come because Oregon rehabs are known for serving patients with dual diagnoses, including mental health disorders and trauma. But whether they come seeking trauma-informed care or natural wonders, people who choose Oregon rehabs soon discover that this state, known for its laidback and compassionate culture, is a safe place to embrace recovery and start their healing journey.

Discovering Oregon’s Wonders

You can find virtually any landscape in Oregon, whether you prefer the beach, the mountains, the desert, or something in between. The Cascade Mountains create a stunning backdrop of white-capped peaks on the western side of the state. Beyond their scenic beauty, these mountains offer hiking, biking, and skiing opportunities—a huge benefit for patients who are looking to explore the ways that exercise can improve their mental health.1

Oregon is also known for its old-growth forests, where trees can grow hundreds of feet tall—in fact, many of the tallest and oldest trees in North America are located in Oregon. Oregon’s woods offer a serene and calming space to connect with nature. The forest also has healing benefits.2 Many studies have shown that forest bathing, or intentionally surrounding yourself with the sights, sounds, and smells of the woods, can reduce symptoms of depression and improve overall mental well-being.

Seaside Oregon
Awakenings by the Sea in Seaside, Oregon is just a stone’s throw away from the beautiful Oregon coast.

Oregon even offers treatment facility options for those who prefer a drier climate. The state’s eastern side is a well-kept secret, with beautiful dunes, rocky caverns, and vast rolling hills, many featuring wild horses. Unlike the western side of the state, which is famous for its temperate, rainy climate, on the eastern side of Oregon, the days are hot, the nights are cold, and it’s not uncommon to wake up to snow in the winter months.

No matter what region you choose, the dramatic landscapes of Oregon have a mythic beauty that inspires residents to explore, be curious, and connect with nature. Whether you are looking for a peaceful retreat among the mossy cedars, or hoping to invest time into your physical fitness, Oregon’s luxury rehabs can support your treatment goals.

Finding Acceptance

Oregon’s culture is as unique as each of its residents. The people of Oregon are known for being quirky,3 which also makes the state a welcoming and friendly environment for people from all walks of life. Particularly in cities like Portland and Eugene, Oregonians are committed to social justice, and the culture is often centered around acceptance and equality.

Oregon’s open-minded culture is also reflected in its treatment opportunities. The state is home to many meditation retreats and communities, and mindfulness plays an important role at many Oregon rehabs. Many treatment centers offer yoga classes, guided meditation programs, and other therapies that encourage the mind-body connection. SLO Recovery Center, a specialized dual-diagnosis rehab located in Portland, offers yoga, acupuncture, and mindfulness meditation classes, as well as nutrition education and other holistic support.

Similarly, Awakenings by the Sea in Seaside, Oregon provides patients with recovery-friendly yoga classes4 from a trained instructor:

Yoga helps to heal aches and pains, which are associated with substance use. Yoga also helps with relaxation; you will feel more at ease, expanding breath, flexibility, strength, endurance and helps with better posture.

Rehab is an opportunity to build a sober community, which is why it’s important to choose a center with a culture that fits your interests and values. If you care about inclusivity and environmental initiatives, Oregon is the right place for you. Because of their passion for environmental conservation and the outdoors, many Oregonians are vegan or vegetarian—which means rehabs in the state are a great place for those with alternative diets. Oregon is also an ideal place for people in the LGBTQ+ community. In particular, Portland is a haven for people looking to find healing among other people who identify as LGBTQ+.

See more on LGBTQ+-affirming treatment here.

Skyline Recovery community
Skyline Recovery in Bend, Oregon offers access to a tight-knit, sober community.

Rehab offers the opportunity not just to heal yourself, but also to learn how to relate to others more sustainably. To support that journey, many treatment centers in Oregon also offer family involvement and couple’s counseling, to extend healing beyond the individual and into the greater community. These programs can make it easier to transition back home after your treatment is over.

Experiential Treatment

Most luxury rehabs in Oregon offer some form of experiential treatment, or learning by doing. This hands-on approach can be helpful for those who need a shift in their perspective, or are struggling to open up. According to the Hazelden Betty Ford Foundation, which has treatment center locations in Newburg and Beaverton, Oregon: “For those who have trouble expressing deep emotions or talking about painful times in their lives, experiential therapy can be a game-changer.”5

In Oregon, experiential treatment often embraces the arts and culture of the region, as well as taking advantage of the beautiful natural surroundings. SLO Recovery Center offers hiking and other outdoor activities like rock climbing, kayaking, and fishing. They also take advantage of their urban locale, with social outings to nearby museums, theatres, and sporting events. These outings teach patients how to reframe their social lives without relying on substances. Additionally, SLO Recovery Center offers music therapy programs and community service work, where patients volunteer their time at homeless shelters and soup kitchens.

Skyline Recovery in Bend, Oregon builds “Wilderness Experiential Therapy” into their treatment model. As their website states: “Regular therapeutic work occurs in the wilderness where nature takes the place of words and healing occurs by doing and being rather than talking and processing.” Participants are encouraged to process their feelings and experiences by taking on challenges in the wilderness—all under the guidance of certified counselors and support staff. These wilderness excursions take advantage of scientific research, which suggests that spending time in nature reduces rumination, and shift neural pathways associated with mental illness.6

From Ski Slopes to Art Museums: Activities and Attractions in the Beaver State

If you choose to start your healing journey in Oregon, there are many attractions that you might enjoy as part of your treatment program.

Portland, Oregon is home to abundant parks and gardens, including the world-famous Rose Garden, which is the reason why Portland is often called the “City of Roses.” There’s also the Japanese Garden in Washington Park, which offers a serene place to practice mindfulness exercises and enjoy quiet time in nature. Cultural attractions include the Portland Art Museum, the Northwest Film Center, and several theatres.

In more rural parts of the state, excursions will likely include natural landmarks. Mount Saint Helens, the famous volcano that erupted in 1980, is a popular destination for those who enjoy history, hiking, and even exploring lava tubes and caves. Other sites include Crater Lake, one of Oregon’s seven wonders, the Columbia River Gorge, and Multnomah Falls, a gorgeous waterfall just outside Portland that’s nearly 600 feet tall.

Multnomah Falls
Multnomah Falls is just one of the many stunning natural sights around Oregon.

Though Oregon is often known for its hiking and camping, it’s also a ski destination. Mount Hood and Mount Bachelor are both internationally recognized ski resorts, for those who enjoy winter recreation. Additionally, Oregon has dozens of healing hot springs, many of which have been operational since the early 1900s. Soaking in these hot springs can relax the body and facilitate healing.

Traveling to Oregon for Treatment

Oregon is a West Coast hub, and as such is easily accessible by plane. Portland International Airport (PDX) is the largest airport, located near downtown Portland. Rogue Valley International Airport in Medford also has many commercial flights daily, and serves the central and eastern parts of the state. Additionally, there are small commercial airports scattered throughout the state, including one in Eugene.

When traveling to a rehab center, you should make plans to ensure your safe arrival. Many rehab centers offer airport pickup and car services, which can be coordinated with the admissions office. Luxury treatment centers are also usually happy to connect you with a sober coach or companion who can travel with you from your destination. To ensure a smooth transition, explore luxury treatment centers early. If you live nearby, you might also consider having a friend or family member drive you to the facility, or travel with you on a plane or train.

Oregon offers both urban and remote treatment options, and it’s important to choose the environment that will best suit your needs. If you’re looking to heal in a new city, Portland offers several rehab facilities that can support your goals. If you’d like to be closer to nature, Seaside or Bend might be more appealing. Regardless of the location you choose, most treatment centers in Oregon are within walking or driving distance from town, and close to awe-inspiring natural beauty. In fact, even at urban rehabs in Portland, greenery is abundant. In Oregon, you get the best of both worlds—making it an ideal location for people seeking a peaceful place to heal.

Find Peace in the Pacific Northwest

Oregon’s peaceful forests and rocky beaches offer a scenic backdrop for healing the mind, body, and spirit. The gentle rain that showers the western part of the state may not be your ideal year-round climate, but it can be cleansing as you move away from old patterns, and toward a new, sober life. Beyond its natural beauty, Oregon offers a culture of acceptance, compassion, and trauma-informed care that facilitates recovery. You can be anyone in Oregon, and that open-minded culture will give you the space to reflect on who you really are—and who you want to become.

Breaking free of old, destructive habits is a huge challenge. But travel gives you the opportunity to get some space from ingrained patterns. In Oregon, you can build new communities, foster new relationships, and receive top-of-the-line support with a focus on holistic healing and outdoor exploration. If you’re ready to make changes in your life, you may just find the support you need in Oregon.

To learn more about treatment opportunities, see our collection of luxury rehabs in Oregon.

Frequently Asked Questions About Oregon Luxury Rehabs

What makes Oregon luxury rehabs unique for addiction treatment?

Oregon luxury rehabs offer a unique healing experience by combining natural beauty with trauma-informed care. Patients can explore diverse landscapes, engage in outdoor activities, and experience the mental health benefits of exercise in the great outdoors. With a laidback and compassionate culture, Oregon provides a safe and supportive environment for embracing recovery.

What types of therapies and programs are offered at Oregon luxury rehabs?

Oregon luxury rehabs offer a range of therapies and programs to support recovery. These include mindfulness-based approaches, yoga, acupuncture, and guided meditation, which promote the mind-body connection. Experiential therapies, such as outdoor activities and music therapy, help patients shift their perspectives and learn new coping skills.

What attractions and activities can be enjoyed during treatment at Oregon luxury rehabs?

Oregon luxury rehabs provide opportunities to explore attractions and engage in various activities as part of the treatment program. Patients can visit parks, gardens, art museums, and theaters in Portland. Natural landmarks like Mount Saint Helens, Crater Lake, and Multnomah Falls offer opportunities for hiking, exploring, and learning about the state’s history and culture. Hot springs and ski resorts add to the abundance of available healing experiences.

Posted on

Does CBD Help or Harm Sobriety?

The process of recovery is different for every person. For some, it includes the use of CBD. However, this is a controversial topic. Many believe that the use of any psychoactive substance, including prescribed medication, interferes with sobriety. And if you’re deciding whether or not CBD will play a role in your recovery journey, it’s important to remember that recovery isn’t about following universal rules. It’s a way to build a life that feels healthy for you.

CBD, or cannabidiol, is one of hundreds of active ingredients in cannabis. It’s readily—and legally—available in many areas. As more and more U.S. states legalize marijuana use,1 for medical and/or recreational purposes, CBD will likely become even more accessible.

Some areas have also decriminalized marijuana,2 with or without officially making it legal. According to the National Conference of State Legislatures, “This generally means certain small, personal-consumption amounts are a civil or local infraction, not a state crime (or are the lowest misdemeanor with no possibility of jail time).” This speaks to a cultural shift in perspective.

Cannabis is becoming more socially acceptable and more accessible over time.3 As this trend continues, more researchers are studying its potential medical applications. Some of this research centers around the use of cannabis to treat mental health.4 Some evidence suggests that CBD, in particular, may be beneficial for people in recovery from substance use.

What Is CBD?

CBD is a cannabinoid.5 That is, it’s a chemical substance that interacts with the human body’s cannabinoid receptors. Cannabis plants are believed to produce between 80-100 different cannabinoids. You may be more familiar with THC, which is the most prevalent cannabinoid we know of, and which produces a “high.” CBD is “the second most prevalent active ingredient in cannabis.”6

The Chemistry of CBD

There is much research to be done on all cannabinoids, including THC and CBD. However, these two chemicals are the best-known, and most-researched, cannabinoids to date.

Many experts describe a simple difference between these two compounds: THC is psychoactive, and CBD is not.7 However, this may be an oversimplification. According to one source, “A chemical is considered psychoactive when it acts primarily on the central nervous system and alters brain function, resulting in temporary changes in perception, mood, consciousness or behavior.” Despite this distinction, it remains true that CBD, unlike THC, is not intoxicating.

There is a clear reason for this: CBD and THC have different neurochemical effects.8 Both CBD and THC act on the brain’s cannabinoid type 1 (CB1) receptors. Even without the feeling of intoxication, CBD has a noticeable impact on brain chemistry and may be able to treat both physical and emotional symptoms.

The Experience of CBD

Research suggests that CBD may help treat anxiety,9 insomnia, chronic pain, inflammatory conditions, and symptoms associated with substance use disorders. Some people use it to help with acute symptoms, such as panic attacks and pain flare-ups. Others take it daily, to manage chronic conditions.

CBD is available in several forms. Tinctures can be added to food or taken sublingually, delivering the cannabinoid directly to the bloodstream. Vape oils and high-CBD plant strains can be inhaled, taking effect more quickly but lasting for a shorter time. Lotions and salves are used topically, for a greater impact on localized physical pain.

The effects of CBD can last for a matter of hours,10 depending on the dosage and your metabolism. In some cases, it can cause mild side effects like nausea, dizziness, and fatigue.

Medical Applications of CBD

Because it’s a relatively new subject of study, experts still have much to learn about the benefits and risks of CBD. To date, it’s believed to have a variety of medical applications.

Reportedly, more than 60% of CBD users find that it alleviates anxiety.11 In 2018, a purified version of the chemical was approved as a treatment for rare pediatric seizure disorders. It also regulates the perception of pain.12 Because of this, it may help treat conditions like fibromyalgia, chronic back pain, and rheumatoid arthritis.

There is some controversy about cannabis as a treatment for mental health conditions. However, preliminary research suggests that CBD may have antidepressant and antipsychotic qualities. And experts agree that CBD for addiction treatment is a promising area of study.13

CBD and Substance Use Disorders

A steadily growing body of research suggests that CBD may alleviate many of the symptoms associated with substance use disorders. According to one study, “the fact that patients with substance use disorders often present with various psychiatric and medical symptoms that are reduced by CBD—symptoms such as anxiety, mood symptoms, insomnia, and pain”14 suggests that this cannabinoid may help people in various stages of detox and recovery.

CBD is an especially promising option for people healing from opiate use. This is because certain cannabinoid receptors are co-localized with opioid receptors in the brain. As a result, CBD can have a direct impact on these receptors, which may help during withdrawal and detox.

Also, many people who overuse opiates do so because they experience physical pain. Because pain relief is one effect of CBD, the cannabinoid may decrease the underlying symptoms that lead to substance use.

Studies show that CBD may also be helpful for people recovering from cocaine and methamphetamines.15 Specifically, it has been shown to reverse “toxicity and seizures induced by cocaine, behavioural sensitization induced by amphetamines, [and the] motivation to self-administer cocaine.”

Beyond its application for recovery from these specific substances, CBD may help to alleviate cravings and other withdrawal symptoms. According to one study, CBD can even help people quit smoking.16

While there are other medical treatments to aid in this process, CBD may be an even safer option, because it has a low risk of chemical dependency. “According to a report from the World Health Organization, ‘In humans, CBD exhibits no effects indicative of any abuse or dependence potential17…To date, there is no evidence of public health-related problems associated with the use of pure CBD.’”

Am I Still Sober if I Use CBD?

Although CBD is not believed to be habit-forming, it is still a substance. And people in recovery need to be mindful of how they use all medications. Because of this, it may or may not be appropriate for a person in recovery to use CBD.

One important part of recovery is learning to define what health means specifically for you. And your definitions of health and sobriety may change over time. As you approach these issues, it’s extremely important to stay true to yourself, and be honest with your mental healthcare team. You might also connect with a community that defines sobriety in a particular way, which may impact how you view your own recovery process.

Total Abstinence

For some people, sobriety means total abstinence from all psychoactive substances,18 including prescribed psychiatric medication. This strict boundary may even impact the way you approach your physical health. For example, some people in recovery from opiate use refuse narcotic medications at all costs, even when they have surgery.

There is nothing inherently right or wrong about this perspective. It has become common enough that most doctors can accommodate their patients’ needs without the use of these medications. It’s not an easy path, but for many people, it’s the right one.

Harm Reduction

Not everyone commits to total abstinence. And not everyone should. Some serious mental health conditions make prescription medications an absolute necessity. For example, people with bipolar disorder may experience debilitating depression if they abstain from mood stabilizers. At the end of the day, sobriety is meant to be a path toward health, not away from it.

Even Alcoholics Anonymous takes a nuanced approach to the idea of abstinence.19 They recommend that members who require medication continue to take it, but only if they can stay accountable to themselves, their communities, and their medical teams. It’s possible to use substances safely if you’re doing so under appropriate supervision.

As cannabis use becomes more and more culturally acceptable, we are likely to learn more about the medical applications of CBD, especially as relates to recovery from substance use disorders. Because of this, it may become more widely used by people who still consider themselves to be sober.

The Risks of CBD

Despite promising research, there are still some risks associated with CBD use. Although it’s not believed to be habit-forming, it is still a cannabinoid. And many CBD products include trace amounts of THC, which can sometimes be addictive. Studies suggest that 9% of people who smoke cannabis develop a dependence on it.20 For those without substance use disorders, that may be an acceptable risk. For some people in recovery, it may be too dangerous.

If you plan to use CBD in response to a substance use disorder, proceed carefully. Make sure to talk to your treatment providers about its potential risks and benefits, and find out if it can interact with any of your other medications.

Whether or not CBD is right for you, it’s important to be fully honest with yourself, your support network, and your healthcare providers about your experience. For example, if you decide to use cannabis in response to acute panic attacks, and then find yourself using it daily, this may be a warning sign. As with any other substance, it’s best to be mindful of the emotions you associate with its use. Like many other substances, it’s possible to use CBD appropriately. It’s also possible to misuse it, or to overuse it.

Finding Balance, With or Without CBD

As cannabis use becomes less stigmatized, people are starting to question whether or not it interferes with sobriety. There’s no clear answer to this. However, the same is true for most substances. If you’re recovering from cocaine use, can you still safely drink? If you’re recovering from opiate use, should you take Prozac? These questions are complicated, and the answers may vary from person to person. During rehab and recovery, you’ll likely start to define where the line is for you.

As you think about your personal history of substance use, you’ll start to distinguish between healthy and problematic behaviors. Are there ways you’ve used substances in the past that felt sustainable? In the process of recovery, are you still capable of approaching medication in that way? If you can incorporate CBD into a genuinely healthy lifestyle, it has many benefits. However, if you’re concerned about using it unsustainably, it may not be worth the risk.

With or without the aid of CBD, there are many ways to begin recovery. Learn more about private rehab programs here.

Frequently Asked Questions About Using CBD in Recovery

Is it possible to use CBD while maintaining sobriety?

The definition of sobriety varies according to different recovery philosophies. Some people choose total abstinence from all psychoactive substances, including CBD. Others may take a harm reduction approach, considering the potential benefits of CBD for managing symptoms. It’s important to communicate openly with your healthcare team and determine what aligns with your recovery goals and personal definition of sobriety. Remember, recovery is a journey of self-discovery and finding the balance that works for you.

Are there risks associated with using CBD in recovery?

While CBD is not believed to be habit-forming, it’s still a cannabinoid and may contain trace amounts of THC. It’s essential to discuss CBD use with your treatment providers, as it may interact with other medications. Honesty with yourself, your support network, and healthcare providers is crucial in monitoring your CBD use and recognizing any warning signs of misuse or overuse.

Can CBD help with cravings and withdrawal symptoms during recovery?

CBD shows promise for alleviating addiction-related symptoms, including cravings and withdrawal, due to its impact on cannabinoid receptors in the brain. It’s shown positive effects in helping people recover from opioid, cocaine, and methamphetamine use. While CBD isn’t a standalone solution, it may be worth exploring as part of a comprehensive treatment plan. Consult with your healthcare provider to determine if CBD is a suitable option for you.

Posted on

Involuntary Rehab: Frequently Asked Questions

Addiction is a serious problem that can have a devastating impact on individuals and families. If you have a loved one who is struggling, you may be wondering if there is anything you can do to get them help, or whether or not you can send them to treatment if they’re unwilling to go on their own.

Involuntary rehab is a process by which a person can be placed in treatment against their will. This is typically only done in cases where the person is a danger to themselves or others, or where they are unable to make rational decisions about their own care.

We answer some common questions about involuntary addiction treatment:

Can I Force My Loved One to Go to Rehab?

Yes, but only in certain locations.

Currently, the District of Columbia and 47 states allow involuntary addiction treatment.1 That number may change over time, so it’s important to stay up to date with your state’s local regulations.

It’s important to note that your state may or may not make a legal distinction between treating a person for alcohol addiction, drug addiction, and mental health. This distinction is usually intended to protect criminal court proceedings, and to prevent defendants from claiming insanity due to substance use.

Most states have two distinct processes by which a person is evaluated for involuntary care; one that applies to current patients, and another that applies to anyone in the midst of a mental health crisis. In many states, anyone can request that a person in crisis be evaluated by a court to see if they meet the criteria for involuntary mental health and/or addiction treatment.2 However, this is not always the case. Florida, for example, requires evaluation by an authority, such as a law enforcement officer, clinical social worker, or physician.

Can I Send My Spouse to Rehab?

Yes, but only in certain locations.

In many states, anyone can call for an emergency mental health evaluation of a person experiencing a mental health crisis. This includes crises that are caused by substance use. If your spouse is a habitual substance user, but is not in crisis, you may have fewer available options. Make sure to check the specific regulations in your state3 to find out which options are available to you.

If you are in physical danger due to your spouse, get yourself to safety before you help them find medical care. If you need help, you can contact the National Domestic Violence Hotline ((National domestic violence hotline. (n.d.). The Hotline. Retrieved October 12, 2021, from https://www.thehotline.org/)) at 1.800.799.SAFE (7233).

Can I Send My Teen to Rehab?

Possibly, depending on your location and your child’s exact age.

Every U.S. state has slightly different rules governing a minor’s autonomy when it comes to medical care.4 Some of these laws are vague, and subject to interpretation by local authorities. You may be able to make some decisions on your teen’s behalf, while they have more control over others. For example, in Delaware, parental consent is required for a minor to receive inpatient treatment for substance use, but either a parent or a minor aged 14 and up may legally consent to outpatient treatment.

How Does a Person Qualify for Mandatory Rehab?

A person must meet certain criteria before they are legally required to attend rehab.5 These criteria vary based on your location. They may or may not be the same as the criteria for mandated mental health treatment for other conditions.

It’s important to note that there may be different criteria for a person in crisis than for a person with ongoing but less severe symptoms. In a crisis situation, the person may be held briefly before either being released or sent to residential treatment. Often, this means that they will be held for 72 hours in a mental health center, during which time they will be evaluated to see if further treatment is needed.

Is Forced Rehab Effective?

Expert opinions vary. Most seem to believe that successful recovery due to forced rehab is rare, but possible.

A 2016 study found that “mandated treatment of drug dependence conflicts with drug users’ human rights6 and is not effective in treating addiction.” In many cases, mandatory rehab is offered as an alternative to jail. As a result, some rehab centers resemble correctional facilities.7 If a person decides to go to rehab, on the other hand, they may have more say in choosing their own program.

It’s important to note that a person’s motivation to heal greatly impacts their recovery from addiction.8 Certain models of healing, including 12-Step programs like Alcoholics Anonymous,9 emphasize the value in admitting that you have a problem and deciding to make a change. Forced rehab bypasses this step. If someone hasn’t committed to recovery, rehab can be more difficult and less effective.10

In some cases, however, people who are forced into rehab ultimately do recover,11 and even express gratitude for their loved one’s decisions. Reporters of these cases emphasize that these stories are the exception, not the rule.

Some experts disagree with this assessment, even stating that “patients who entered residential treatment with moderate to high legal pressure were significantly more likely to stay in treatment 90 days or more compared to those with low legal pressure.”12 However, there is little publicly available data to support this claim.

Do Interventions Work?

Yes, if you get help from a professional interventionist.

To stage an intervention, you’ll start by gathering a group of people who care about someone struggling with substance use. Ultimately, you’ll all sit down with that person face to face, explain how their substance use has affected your lives, and encourage them to get professional help.

Unfortunately, there is little research regarding the effectiveness of interventions. This is likely because many people plan these meetings on their own, without assistance from a professional. Because emotions will be running high at every stage of the process—from the moment you begin planning to the end of the intervention itself—it’s extremely important to have an experienced, impartial perspective to guide you and your loved one toward the goal.

Professional interventionists are often recovered substance users themselves. As a result, these experts are able to see the conversation from both sides, advocating for both your and your loved one’s best interests. They may also be trained in nonviolent communication, connected to local and national resources, and able to answer complex questions about rehab and recovery.

Anecdotal evidence suggests that there may be a high success rate for interventions conducted by professionals.13 The presence of a third party in the room can also defuse potentially volatile situations.

Will My Loved One Face Legal Consequences if They Go to Forced Rehab?

It’s possible. However, the answer to this question is rapidly changing.

In many states, court-ordered rehab can be offered as an alternative to jail time.14 This does not necessarily protect your loved one from accruing a criminal record. It also depends on a substance user’s exact circumstances. Possession of some substances, including dangerous substances, is perfectly legal and does not represent a risk of legal charges. Possession of other substances may result in criminal charges, but only in certain amounts. Some are highly illegal, and are grounds for felony charges in any amount.

These regulations vary widely from state to state. And as more and more municipalities begin decriminalizing substance use,15 you can expect the rules to change significantly in the near future. If you’re concerned about the legal consequences of forcing your loved one into rehab, it’s best to check with a lawyer or other expert to learn more about your options.

How Long Does Mandatory Rehab Last?

It depends on your area, and on the results of your loved one’s professional evaluation.

When a person in crisis goes to a mental health facility involuntarily,16 they’ll likely be held for 72 hours. However, this varies based on the laws in your area. During or after that emergency hold, they’ll usually be evaluated to see whether further treatment is required. If it is, they may be held for about two weeks. Following that initial period of treatment, they may be released to an outpatient program, or admitted to a residential facility.

Every person’s experience is different, and options vary based on each patient’s insurance, location, and physical and mental health. If possible, it’s best to stay in close communication with the person’s team of healthcare providers. This allows you to make decisions with or on behalf of your loved one as the situation develops.

What if My Loved One Won’t Go to Rehab?

If your loved one won’t go to rehab, you still have options. And you are not alone.

Substance misuse can have a huge impact not only on the person who participates in it, but also on their family and community. It’s important to recognize the effects of their behavior on your own mental health and well-being. Thankfully, there are many resources available for people who love someone struggling with addiction.

Al-Anon is a support group for people with a loved one who struggles with substance use.17 Alateen is a similar group, specifically for young people and teenagers. CoDA, or Codependents Anonymous, is a support group for people who struggle with codependency, which is often exacerbated by relationships with substance users.18 All of these are 12-Step groups, modeled after Alcoholics Anonymous, and designed to help you build a healthier, more sustainable life.

If you’re not interested in joining a group, you may consider seeing a therapist who specializes in treating partners of people with substance use disorders. Or you may just pick up a book about this relationship dynamic. Whatever you decide, remember that your mental health is important, too. Whether or not your loved one ultimately gets the help they need, you also deserve to heal.

Discover your addiction treatment options by visiting our searchable list of rehabs. Take virtual tours, read reviews, learn about insurance coverage, and more.

Posted on

Finding the Right Treatment for Co-Occurring Disorders

You are more than your diagnosis. That’s true no matter what, whether you have a substance use disorder or cancer. And the goal of rehab isn’t just to treat your illness; it’s to help you heal every aspect of yourself. For some clients, that means finding a treatment program that specializes in co-occurring disorders.

Having a co-occurring disorder, or a dual diagnosis, just means that you’ve been diagnosed with more than one condition. In the context of rehab, the term is generally used for clients with multiple mental health concerns. For example, you may have a substance use disorder as well as anxiety, depression, PTSD, bipolar disorder, personality disorders, or schizophrenia. This is not an exhaustive list. Approximately 50% of people with substance use disorders have dual diagnoses.1

It’s technically true that anyone with more than one condition has a dual diagnosis. For example, a client might have both depression and diabetes. However, when a rehab facility offers a dual diagnosis treatment program, it’s safe to assume that they’re referring to conditions that relate to mental health. Substance use disorders and other mental health conditions generally have complex, multifaceted relationships. As such, people with multiple diagnoses can benefit from specialized forms of treatment.

Risk Factors for Co-Occurring Disorders

Substance use disorders are often related to certain mental health diagnoses.2 It’s important to remember that every person’s experience is unique, and these correlations aren’t necessarily causative. However, there are some well-documented risk factors that can make someone more likely to experience these co-occurring conditions.

Mental Health Concerns Can Make Substance Misuse More Likely

Mental health conditions, including substance use disorders, tend to run in families. Experts believe this is due to a combination of genetic and environmental factors. Studies have found that “as much as half of a person’s risk of becoming addicted to nicotine, alcohol, or other drugs depends on his or her genetic makeup.”3 However, life experiences also play a major role. Your diet, stress levels, physical activity, and any history of trauma can also contribute to substance misuse. According to experts, “that old saying ‘nature or nurture’ might be better phrased ‘nature and nurture’ because research shows that a person’s health is the result of dynamic interactions between genes and the environment.” Environmental conditions can also play a role in the development of mental illness.4

Research has clearly linked substance use disorders with mental health. According to the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA), “People with mental illness are more likely to experience a substance use disorder5 than those not affected by a mental illness.” However, it’s not simply the case that mental health diagnoses can cause substance misuse. The reverse can also be true.

The Impact of Substance Use Disorders on Mental Health

Substance misuse changes brain chemistry. Active substance use has a short-term impact on a person’s mental and emotional state, but it doesn’t end there. Long-term drug use can also “lead to both short- and long-term changes in the brain,6 which can lead to mental health issues.” This can contribute to the development, or progression, of mental health conditions.

It’s not unusual for people to develop substance use disorders in response to mental or physical pain.7 And research has found that “people with a mental disorder, such as anxiety, depression, or post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), may use drugs or alcohol as a form of self-medication. However, although some drugs may temporarily help with some symptoms of mental disorders, they may make the symptoms worse over time. Additionally, brain changes in people with mental disorders may enhance the rewarding effects of substances, making it more likely they will continue to use the substance.”

This has a synergistic effect: emotional pain leads to substance misuse, which in turn increases emotional pain. As a result, many people find themselves caught in a cycle of unsustainable behavior, in which their attempts to self-soothe only amplify their distress.

Substance misuse, like many other mental health conditions, can become an all-consuming experience if it’s left untreated. Ultimately, it affects your mental health, your behavior, your relationships, and every other aspect of your life. In the midst of this crisis state, it can be difficult to even imagine life without these coping mechanisms. And this entire cycle is often accelerated for those with co-occurring disorders.

Breaking the Cycle

When you have a mental health diagnosis—whether or not it’s been officially diagnosed—it can be a struggle to find healthy coping mechanisms. Illicit substances can temporarily relieve the symptoms of mental illness, and unfortunately, they can also be more readily available than more appropriate prescription medications.

Many people find it difficult to admit that they have a problem, either with substance misuse or mental health in general. If you’re not ready to seek help, it’s unlikely that you’ll receive adequate medical care. However, you may be able to access illicit substances in a less formal way, without consulting a medical provider. Unfortunately, this accessibility is only possible due to a lack of expert oversight. Self-medicating can only get you so far.

Even with the best of intentions—for example, the conscious goal of self-medicating—substance misuse can impair your judgment. This makes it difficult to know whether your behavior has become problematic. “When an individual develops a mental illness, associated changes in brain activity may increase the vulnerability for problematic use of substances8 by enhancing their rewarding effects, reducing awareness of their negative effects, or alleviating the unpleasant symptoms of the mental disorder or the side effects of the medication used to treat it.”

futures recovery pool
You can receive professional help for co-occurring disorders at rehabs that offer these types of treatment programs, such as Futures Recovery Healthcare in Florida.

Substance Use Disorders and Trauma

Regardless of your reasons for substance misuse, unhealthy behaviors can cause further trauma. In fact, some clients report developing PTSD in response to their substance use. This can even be true for people who never experienced severe trauma before developing a substance use disorder.

Victoria Abadi, Addiction Therapist, writes, ” When a person is using a substance or behaviour addictively they often experience more trauma.9 This trauma may be caused by putting themselves in dangerous situations, behaving in a way that doesn’t reflect their moral compass, or feeling psychologically unstable due to the cocktail of chemicals and experiences.”

In addition, substance misuse often hurts relationships, including those with friends, family, and even work colleagues. If your relationships are damaged as a result of your behavior, you may experience the trauma of losing touch with a person you care about or rely on. This becomes a vicious cycle, and gives many people more reasons to continue engaging in unhealthy behavior.

As painful as this pattern can be, there is always hope for healing. Many people struggle with trauma as the cause or result of substance misuse. And many medical providers have experience in helping clients move forward. Alex Spritzer, Family Addiction and Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner at The Hope House Scottsdale, is one such therapist:

“I believe that at the heart of many addictions is a trauma base. From that trauma base, there’s other psychiatric symptoms present. That might include anxiety, insomnia, a racing mind, or mood swings–these are often psychiatric symptoms people look to abate when they’re using substances. In the dual diagnosis process, figuring out the reasons why people use [substances] is very important.”

The Hope House Scottsdale
The Hope House Scottsdale in Scottsdale, Arizona.

Finding the Right Type of Treatment for You

By their very nature, dual diagnoses are highly complex10 and unique to every client. And it can be difficult to “disentangle [their] overlapping symptoms.” For that reason, personalized treatment can be very helpful for people healing from multiple conditions.

Signs and Symptoms of Co-Occurring Disorders

Prior to rehab, many people aren’t even aware that they have co-occurring mental health conditions. It can be especially complicated to find out whether this applies to you, because the symptoms of some mental health concerns can be caused by “[physical] illness, medications, or substance abuse.”11 However, certain warning signs may indicate the presence of multiple mental health concerns.

The team at White River Manor notes that “those living with co-occurring disorders will find daily functioning difficult, if not impossible. While symptoms are often complex and can vary in severity, there are some common signs of dual diagnosis. According to their treatment team, these include

  • Social withdrawal: isolating from friends, family, and those who offer support
  • Sudden changes in behaviour (including engaging in risky or violent behaviours)
  • Changes in appetite and sleep patterns (including insomnia or excessive sleep)
  • Inability to concentrate and confused thinking
  • Intense or prolonged feelings of despair, hopelessness, and worthlessness
  • Anxiety issues that can only be relieved by certain behaviours or rituals
  • Difficulty staying in employment or meeting other responsibilities
  • Trouble maintaining relationships because of erratic behaviour or mood swings
  • Dramatic shifts in moods or energy levels and an inability to control emotions
  • Use of drugs and alcohol as coping mechanisms for any of the above, despite the dangers.”

If these symptoms describe your experience, you may want to consider a rehab program that specializes in co-occurring disorder treatment. Before choosing one facility over another, talk to the admissions team to learn more about what types of treatment they offer.

Questions to Ask Your Provider About Co-Occurring Disorder Treatment

Because treatment of co-occurring disorders is so individualized, it’s important that you find a clinical team that can support you, specifically. Ideally, your clinical team will have experience treating not only substance use disorders, but every diagnosis that applies to you. For example, a rehab facility that specializes in treating clinical depression may or may not have the right resources for a client with ADHD. To find the right program, you may have to take an active role in advocating for yourself during the admissions process. Here are some questions you can ask the admissions team at a rehab center to see whether they can provide the support you need:

  • How do you evaluate clients for dual diagnoses?
  • If I complete detox at your facility, will I be reevaluated for co-occurring disorders before beginning inpatient treatment?
  • Which specific mental health concerns do you treat most often?
  • Which mental health diagnoses does your staff specialize in treating?
  • What experiences does your team have in treating my specific diagnoses?
  • What types of therapy do you offer for various co-occurring disorders?
  • Do you create individualized treatment plans for each client? If so, how involved is the client in co-designing their treatment plan?
  • For clients with dual diagnoses, how do you integrate different types of therapy to address each person’s unique needs?
  • Do you prescribe psychiatric medication for clients with dual diagnoses?
  • How do you manage medications for clients detoxing from substance misuse?
  • How do you help clients with co-occurring disorders plan for ongoing mental health care after residential rehab?

Diagnosing Co-Occurring Disorders

The first step in healing, as always, is to go through a thorough evaluation process to determine the best course of treatment. For people with multiple mental health concerns, this process can be complex.

Remember that there’s no one-size-fits-all solution for healing. Although you may consult with your medical team before you arrive at rehab, your treatment plan will likely change over time. This is especially true for people who undergo medical detox before starting a rehab program. Once you complete detox and stabilize your physical health, your emotional state may change significantly, making reevaluation necessary.

Even if it takes time to find your diagnosis (or diagnoses), it’s important that you stay focused on the present moment, and fully committed to the process of healing. Rehab can be challenging. It’s normal to get tired, or to feel daunted by the task at hand. However, your own dedication to personal growth is absolutely vital. Experts agree that “the patient’s acceptance of a problem and his or her willingness to engage in treatment are important predictors of clinical outcomes.”12

Effective Treatment for Co-Occurring Disorders

In the right rehab program, your commitment to healing will be met by a similar commitment from your treatment providers. Because dual diagnosis treatment requires a multifaceted approach, it’s important to work with a team that can address every aspect of your health.

Co-Occurring Disorders Benefit from Holistic Healing

At Futures Recovery Healthcare, for example, providers stay in close communication with each other about each patient’s progress:

“The integration of patient care — and many other supportive services — can greatly improve long-term patient outcomes. Integrated care is the process of coordinating the efforts of each member of a patient’s care team to enhance individual and systemic outcomes. All members of a patient’s care team collaborate on a regular basis to share information about a patient with the sole purpose of ensuring that health goals are being met, identifying any new conditions or needs, and adding therapies deemed important.”

In many cases, the symptoms of substance use disorders can be easy to identify. However, the symptoms of co-occurring conditions can be much more complex. This can make it harder to define what healing means for you. If you have bipolar disorder, for example, it’s unlikely that the condition will ever simply disappear. However, there’s always hope. During rehab, you can learn to manage your symptoms in a healthy and sustainable way.

Managing Chronic Conditions

Current research holds that many mental health conditions are, at least in part, caused by biological factors. For example, studies have found that bipolar disorder may be the result of a neurochemical imbalance.13 Other mental health conditions, such as PTSD, are influenced by life experiences and environmental conditions.14 There is still much research to be done about the etiology of these diagnoses.

Whatever the cause, many mental health concerns are chronic conditions.15 It’s possible to manage them using therapy and medication, but it’s counterproductive to assume that someday all your symptoms will simply disappear without ongoing medical treatment. If you’re feeling daunted by this idea, compare your diagnosis to a physical illness. It’s perfectly appropriate for a person with a heart condition to take prescribed medication every day. Ongoing mental health treatment is equally important, and in many cases, equally accessible.

People with any mental health diagnosis can benefit from learning healthy coping mechanisms. If you also have a substance use disorder, those same coping mechanisms can help you manage cravings and keep your physical health in order. During rehab, you’ll learn these skills. After residential treatment, you’ll start putting them into practice in more complex situations.

As you prepare for life after rehab, you’ll not only hone your coping skills; you’ll also start building a support network that can help keep you on track. Dr. Monika Kolodziej, Program Director at McLean Fernside, explains:

“We know that people must learn skills to help them operate in the world and deal with depression, deal with anxiety, as they are also staying away from substances. And we know from studies that groups are an important vehicle.”

You Are More Than Your Diagnosis

It’s extremely important to find a diagnosis that accurately describes your symptoms. Doing this empowers you to get the help you need, which may include talk therapy, prescription medications, support groups, and appropriate health insurance. However, you are not your illness. You are a whole person, with needs and goals and values that transcend any difficulties you may face.

As you pursue dual diagnosis treatment, remember that rehab is not the end goal of healing. Instead, it is the first chapter of a new story. By learning more about your own emotional experience, you’ll be able to move forward in a healthier and more joyful way.

If you have, or believe you may have, a dual diagnosis, learn more about rehab centers that treat co-occurring disorders here.

Frequently Asked Questions About Co-Occurring Disorder Treatment

What are co-occurring disorders?

Co-occurring disorders, also known as dual diagnoses, refer to the presence of multiple mental health conditions. In the context of rehab, it commonly refers to patients with substance use disorders and other mental health concerns such as anxiety, depression, PTSD, bipolar disorder, personality disorders, or schizophrenia.

What are the risk factors for co-occurring disorders?

Co-occurring disorders can be caused by a combination of genetic and environmental factors. Mental health conditions, including substance use disorders, tend to run in families. Life experiences, diet, stress levels, physical activity, and history of trauma can also contribute to substance abuse and the development of mental illness.

How can I manage my co-occurring disorder after completing residential rehab?

Managing a co-occurring disorder requires ongoing care and support. It’s important to continue therapy, take prescribed medications as directed, and develop healthy coping skills. Building a support network and participating in support groups can also help in maintaining recovery. Remember that co-occurring disorders are chronic conditions, but with the right treatment and self-care, you can lead a fulfilling life beyond rehab.
Posted on

12-Step vs. Non-12-Step Recovery: Which Is Best for You?

Rehab is designed to provide structure as you begin the process of recovery. There are countless ways to heal, and it’s important to choose a framework that meets your specific needs. While many people benefit from 12-Step rehab programs, others prefer a more holistic approach to addiction treatment.

Recent research shows that 12-Step programs have a hugely positive impact,1 and may even be “the most effective path to abstinence.” However, there is some question as to why this is true. For example, 12-Step programs offer social support,2 which is essential during recovery, but is not unique to this philosophy. At most inpatient rehab programs, you’ll be able to build community with or without following the 12 Steps.

It’s also important to note that spirituality is a component of every 12-Step program. If you’re not interested in faith-based recovery, these groups may not be right for you. Various rehab facilities offer different 12-Step groups, such as A.A. and N.A., as well as non-12-Step programs. Before choosing which residential rehab you’ll attend, it’s best to learn as much as you can about the available options.

What Is 12-Step Recovery?

Alcoholics Anonymous is the best-known 12-Step program.3 A.A. is “an international fellowship of men and women who have had a drinking problem. It is nonprofessional, self-supporting, multiracial, apolitical, and available almost everywhere. There are no age or education requirements. Membership is open to anyone who wants to do something about his or her drinking problem.”

Members of A.A. attend group meetings,4 most of which have a similar format: initial announcements are followed by a reading of the 12 Steps and the 12 Traditions. Then a member will share their story. This may be followed by a group conversation, or more structured time for other members to describe their experiences. This structure is simple but effective. As one member writes, “I always feel a little better after it’s over.”

Many 12-Step groups follow similar formats, such as Narcotics Anonymous, Cocaine Anonymous, Marijuana Anonymous, and Al-Anon, which is intended for people who love someone who struggles with substance misuse. These groups define the 12 Steps slightly differently, but all share a similar philosophy.

The 12 Steps

The 12 Steps are a list of actions that group members undertake during the process of recovery. In this process, members normally begin by admitting they have a problem. Then, you’ll connect to a higher power, sometimes called “God as we understand him.”5 Although 12-Step groups are historically rooted in Christianity, they welcome people of all faiths, including people who don’t ascribe to a specific religion. Nevertheless, the spiritual aspect of this philosophy isn’t right for everyone.

In the process of connecting with a higher power, members then make “a searching and fearless moral inventory”6 of themselves and their lives. This ruthless honesty lays the groundwork for the great changes that come with recovery. By admitting your struggles to yourself, to another person, and to your version of a spiritual source, you may come to a new understanding of your emotional experience.

In Step 9, members seek to make amends7 to any people they may have hurt, “except when to do so would injure them or others.” Through this process, members begin to consider the effects their actions have on their communities. There is a difference between intent and impact. As you learn more about yourself, you’ll also learn how to meet your needs in a healthy way, while participating in a supportive community.

One goal of the 12 Steps is to achieve a spiritual awakening. Step 12 refers to this directly: “Having had a spiritual awakening as the result of these steps,8 we tried to carry this message to alcoholics, and to practice these principles in all our affairs.” Members are encouraged to meditate, pray, and cultivate an ongoing spiritual practice.

In these groups, you’ll be encouraged to “work the steps” throughout the process of recovery. As you encounter new challenges, you may return to the steps again and again, not always in numerical order. In stressful times, these strategies can help you focus on your goals, avoid relapse, and make the healthiest choices available. The 12 Steps are more than a checklist; they can become a way of life. However, the steps themselves are just one component of recovery. The social aspect of 12-Step groups is also an essential part of the process.

Social Support in 12-Step Programs

Experts agree that social support—or a lack thereof—has an extremely significant impact on people with substance use disorders.9 Some researchers have even postulated that “opioid addiction serves as a substitute for social attachment.” In one study, a subgroup of substance users exhibited “severe negative affect and intense craving” when exposed to perceived social rejection.

This evidence suggests that without community, people in recovery may be especially vulnerable to cravings. Whether or not those cravings lead to relapse, one thing is clear: strong interpersonal relationships are an important part of healing. Because 12-Step groups include a built-in community of people on a similar journey, they may help members get the support they need. Programs like A.A. even encourage members to become sponsors,10 actively supporting people at earlier points in the healing process.

In most residential rehabs, you’ll be in a cohort of people who share some of your life experiences. If your program is based on the 12 Steps, you’ll have even more structured opportunities to give and receive peer-to-peer support. For example, the program at Genesis House is firmly rooted in this philosophy. They treat substance misuse as “a three-fold disease: spiritual, physical, and emotional.” Residents are introduced to the 12 Steps as soon as they arrive. They continue to engage with the steps in individual therapy, and in the evenings they “are transported to local AA/NA meetings…where they will network with others in recovery and learn more about how to stay sober.”

What Is Non-12-Step Recovery?

Although 12-Step groups are extremely valuable for some, they’re not the only way to get community support. One study found that “social networks that support recovery lead to enhanced treatment outcomes and sobriety11 regardless if this support stems from family, peer groups, or 12-Step programs.”

Non-12-Step programs are ideal for people who don’t ascribe to a spiritual practice, or those who simply want a different kind of structure. There are countless approaches to recovery from substance misuse, such as evidence-based treatment, individualized treatment, and experiential therapy. And even without faith in a higher power, it’s possible to heal in a holistic way.

For example, The Holistic Sanctuary in Baja California is a rehab facility with a “natural holistic healing program.” Clients do yoga, receive daily massages, and eat an organic diet. This approach “involves healing the patient’s spiritual health through meditation, catering to their physical health through exercise, and improving their psychological wellbeing through counseling.”

There are as many ways to heal as there are people with substance use disorders. Many clients benefit from a combination approach, attending 12-Step groups while also participating in different therapeutic modalities.

In the same way that medicines and psychotherapy can go together, AA and 12-Step can go together with in-depth psychotherapy and medications when indicated.

– Dr. Thomas Gazda, Medical Doctor, Soberman’s Estate

Finding the Right Approach to Treatment

If you’re not sure whether 12-Step treatment is the right fit, you can talk to the admissions team at a rehab center to learn more. These questions may help you find out whether a program aligns with your specific goals for recovery:

  • In this program, is attendance of 12-Step groups mandatory?
  • How much time will I spend in individual therapy, compared to time spent in groups?
  • Do all your one-on-one 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 and/or 12-Step meetings after they complete inpatient rehab?

If at all possible, it’s best to know the answers to these questions before you begin residential treatment. The more information you have, the better you can plan for life during and after rehab.

Attending 12-Step Groups After Rehab

​​By design, 12-Step programs are extremely accessible. They’re free, they take place internationally, and they’re open to people at every stage of recovery. A.A., in particular, offers both open and closed meetings.12 Open meetings are available to anyone, including friends and loved ones of alcoholics, who do not have substance use disorders themselves. Closed meetings are only open to people who have substance use disorders, or those who believe that they might and want to learn more.

This accessibility can be especially important for people who have recently completed rehab. When you first graduate from a residential program, you may be in a vulnerable emotional state. Rehab is only the first chapter of a much longer healing process. When you arrive home afterward, you’ll begin establishing new routines, returning to some parts of your life, and letting go of others. Attending group meetings can help you stay grounded while encouraging you to form new relationships with people who live nearby.

A Step in the Right Direction

Whether or not 12-Step recovery is right for you, there’s a great deal to learn from this philosophy. For example, the process of healing from substance misuse is not a solitary one. There are certain aspects of recovery that must be your responsibility, but no one lives in a vacuum. By connecting with the people around you and finding peers who have survived similar struggles, you can learn a great deal about what it means to live a healthy life.

Like any other healing process, the 12 Steps can be a-linear. As you begin recovery, be patient with yourself. There are some lessons you may have to learn more than once, in new contexts or at different times of your life. That type of repetition is normal and even healthy. As you continue to change and grow, it can be helpful to ground yourself with a list of goals or strategies that you’d like to focus on throughout recovery. There may be 12 of them, or 2, or 37. The important thing is to find a way of healing that aligns with your unique values.

To continue exploring various treatment philosophies, you can learn more about rehabs that offer 12-Step programs and non-12-Step treatment.

Frequently Asked Questions About 12-Step vs. Non-12-Step Rehab

What’s the difference between 12-Step and non-12-Step rehab programs?

12-Step rehab programs, like Alcoholics Anonymous (A.A.), follow a structured framework involving admitting a problem, connecting to a higher power, making amends, and achieving a spiritual awakening. Non-12-Step programs offer alternative approaches to recovery, focusing on evidence-based treatments, holistic healing, and individualized therapy.

Are 12-Step groups mandatory in all rehab programs?

The attendance of 12-Step groups varies at different rehabs. Some programs make it mandatory, while others offer a choice between 12-Step and non-12-Step options. It’s important to inquire with the rehab you’re considering about their specific approach to ensure it aligns with your preferences and goals for recovery.

Can non-religious people participate in 12-Step programs?

Yes, 12-Step programs welcome people of all faiths and those who don’t ascribe to a specific religion. While spirituality is a component, it’s not limited to a particular faith. These programs encourage participants to connect with a higher power as they understand it, which can be interpreted in a way that aligns with personal beliefs or values.

Posted on

Rehab Options Abound in Diverse, Vibrant L.A.

Los Angeles is synonymous with Hollywood, glamour, and glossy exteriors. But behind the glitz is a city with soul: a cultural melting pot with more enriching experiences than meets the eye.

From vibrant art districts brimming with color and creative types to the rewarding hiking trails of Angeles National Forest, L.A. has something for everyone. This potpourri of options translates to what’s available at Los Angeles rehabs too.

L.A. offers a selection of addiction treatment choices for a multitude of preferences. Whether you’re in search of a holistic rehab with a wellness-centric approach, or you’re a high-level executive seeking a treatment program that will protect your anonymity, you can likely find what you’re looking for in Los Angeles.

Great Weather and Activities in the City of Angels

Live in the sunshine is a phrase that certainly carries weight in L.A. Ranked as a top U.S. city with the most number of nice days, Los Angeles attracts people from all across the country in search of that idyllic Mediterranean climate year-round.

The cherry on top? There are more ways to enjoy L.A.’s perfect weather than one may imagine. While places like Colorado or Arizona spring to mind when you think of outdoorsy destinations, L.A. offers plenty of exciting excursions nearby: miles of sparkling coastlines, hiking trails with breathtaking views, and desert getaways, to name a few.

Rehabs in L.A. take advantage of the city’s great weather and outdoor activities that exist all around them. Just 45 minutes from the city, Rise in Malibu offers weekly experiential therapies that include ocean-based activities, hikes, and wildlife interactions. Likewise, Tarzana Recovery in the San Fernando Valley takes its residents surfing, horseback riding, boating, and even go-karting.

rise in malibu pool
Minutes from the stunning Pacific Coast, Rise in Malibu offers guests a selection of ocean-based activities.

Excursions and activities are a wonderful chance to explore life outside of residential rehab. They can also offer many powerful and rewarding experiences:

  • You’ll learn to find joy in sober activities.
  • Being out in nature is proven to boost human health.1
  • You have the chance to connect with the world around you.
  • Overcoming physical challenges during active excursions helps reveal your innate inner strength.

Holistic Rehab Centers in Los Angeles

L.A. is the ultimate melting pot of cultures and characters. The vibrant city draws in artists, creatives, and trendsetters–those who aren’t afraid to explore what’s new. So before the term “wellness” became commonplace across the U.S., L.A. natives were already embracing the health-conscious lifestyle.

This spells good news if you’re looking for a holistic treatment facility. Not only are there plenty of reputable holistic rehabs in Los Angeles, but many have years of experience treating addiction using this all-encompassing approach. Some of these centers have even earned national recognition for their expertise in addiction treatment.

Oro House Recovery, voted California’s Best Addiction Treatment Center of 20212 by Newsweek, has been helping clients overcome addiction for over a decade through their holistic, non-12-Step treatment program. According to Oro House, holistic means “treating every facet of addiction.” Therefore, their “treatment providers have multi-dimensional specializations in diverse fields.”

Oro House’s program integrates evidence-based clinical therapies with alternative treatment modalities, like Reiki and sound therapy, both of which may be more difficult to find at a traditional rehab center. The ability to choose and have access to complementary therapies is so important for some people’s recovery. One study funded by the National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism found that addiction treatment programs utilizing alternative therapies may better address the unique needs of certain groups of people, like women and adolescents.3

Oro house recovery sound therapy
Alternative treatment modalities at Oro House Recovery in Malibu, California include sound therapy.

If you want to include alternative therapies in your treatment regimen, chances are you’ll find these modalities at luxury rehabs in Los Angeles. A reflection of L.A.’s progressive culture, these centers tend to offer a wider menu of different treatment types.

L.A. Rehabs for Executives and Celebrities

Addiction can affect people from all walks of life—even executives and people in public-facing roles. High achievers and celebrities going through addiction4 face distinct stressors. This usually comes with the added pressure of keeping up appearances.

There’s a harmful stigma that people in their position have it easy because of their socioeconomic status. This simply isn’t the case, and statements like that can be damaging to the well-being of someone struggling with addiction. Oftentimes, people in these positions require a treatment center with the expertise and experience to help them with their serious needs.

Since California has the highest concentration of CEOs5 and celebrities in the U.S., many L.A. treatment facilities have executive programs that cater to high-powered clientele.

These programs, like the ones at Oro House Recovery and Monarch Shores, let clients connect with work and use their laptops or phones during certain hours.

monarch shores house
Luxury rehab Monarch Shores, surrounded by California’s beautiful blue waters, allows executives to connect to work when needed.

For some people, anonymity is essential. Single-client rehabs are tailored towards this clientele. A short drive from the L.A. city center, Mercui Recovery in Malibu is an upscale single-client rehab with a highly personalized program. Treating executive clients since 1999, they even offer business coaching.

Luxury Rehab Facilities in Los Angeles

Home to world-class hotels and 25 Michelin-starred restaurants,6 Los Angeles has several experiences tailored to those in search of plush comforts.

Many luxury rehabs in L.A. are no stranger to offering exclusive comforts and have long been treating celebrity and executive clients. These facilities tend to employ teams of highly qualified clinical staff, and offer greater levels of privacy, upscale amenities, and bespoke touches, like a private chef or personal trainer.

It’s important to remember that even with these additional comforts, rehab is not just a vacation. It takes work to create lasting life change. Some people require a luxury rehab setting to be comfortable and, as a result, potentially more responsive to treatment.

To make sure their clients experience the utmost privacy, Crosspointe Recovery in Sherman Oaks is gated and surrounded by leafy vegetation, in an upscale, serene neighborhood. Their facility has ample luxury amenities such as an indoor movie theater, fitness center, business center, and a contemporary outdoor patio space. For many people, this type of attention to detail creates a relaxing environment for recovery.

Crosspointe Recovery
Crosspointe Recovery in Sherman Oaks, California offers utmost privacy surrounded by leafy vegetation.

Getting to and Around Los Angeles

It’s no secret that L.A. is a major travel hub with some serious traffic jams.

Getting to Los Angeles from other U.S. cities by plane is rather convenient: there are several airports to fly into.

If your rehab facility is located at more populous destinations like Beverly Hills, Malibu, or Santa Monica, you’ll likely fly into Los Angeles International Airport (LAX).

If LAX seems too overwhelming and you’re headed towards Orange County (Costa Mesa, Irvine, and Newport Beach), you can fly to John Wayne Airport (SNA). Major carriers including United Airlines, Delta Airlines, and American Airlines fly to SNA.

Getting around Los Angeles can be inconvenient. Most luxury rehabs in L.A. offer pick-up services directly from the airport to their center. It’s best to check and arrange for this service with a rehab admissions specialist.

Discover a Variety of Treatment Options in Diverse L.A.

A city of diversity, rehab centers in Los Angeles cater to many different needs. Humans are individual beings. Therefore, addiction treatment should be tailored to fit your unique needs, whether you’re looking for day trips to the sea or need a facility with a business center to keep up with work.

Access to specialized rehab centers can be extremely beneficial to your recovery. In Los Angeles, you have plenty of options: ultra-private luxury centers, non-12-Step rehabs, executive programs, and more.

Find your fit by browsing our collection of rehabs in Los Angeles.

Frequently Asked Questions About Los Angeles Luxury Rehabs

What types of addiction treatment options are available in Los Angeles?

Los Angeles offers a selection of addiction treatment choices for a multitude of preferences. Whether you’re in search of a holistic rehab with a wellness-centric approach or a treatment program that prioritizes anonymity for high-level executives, you can likely find what you’re looking for in L.A.

What outdoor activities and excursions are offered by rehabs in L.A.?

Rehabs in L.A. take advantage of the city’s great weather and abundance of outdoor activities. They offer a range of exciting excursions, including ocean-based activities, hikes, wildlife interactions, surfing, horseback riding, boating, and go-karting. These activities not only provide a chance to explore life outside of residential rehab but also contribute to joy in sober activities, boost human health, and help connect with the world and reveal inner strength.

Do luxury rehabs in Los Angeles cater to executives and celebrities?

Yes, L.A. has luxury rehabs that cater specifically to executives and celebrities. These facilities understand the unique stressors faced by high achievers and people in public-facing roles. They offer executive programs that allow clients to connect with work during designated hours and prioritize anonymity. Upscale single-client rehabs with highly personalized programs and additional services like business coaching are also available for executive clients in Los Angeles.

Posted on

Gender-Specific Rehab Offers Peer-to-Peer Support

At its best, rehab is a safe, protected environment. And some people feel most supported recovering alongside people of their own gender. This may be especially true if you’re healing from trauma or toxic relationships, or simply want to reduce the time you spend explaining your emotional experience.

It’s important to distinguish between the concepts of gender and biological sex.1 The National Institutes of Health Office of Research on Women’s Health defines sex as “a biological classification, encoded in our DNA. Males have XY chromosomes, and females have XX chromosomes.” Most—but certainly not all—people are able to define their biological sex in this way.

Gender, on the other hand, is described as “the socially constructed roles, behaviors, expressions, and identities of girls, women, boys, men, and gender diverse people. It influences how people perceive themselves and each other, and how they act and interact.” Gender and sex, as defined here, don’t match up for everyone. Because of this, some clients may consider attending a rehab that caters to people with LGBTQ+ identities.

Significant research has been done into the differences between men and women with substance use disorders. There is still much to learn about the relationship between gender and addiction, especially regarding trans, nonbinary, and gender non-conforming clients. Not every rehab offers gender-specific treatment. And of the ones that do, some may be more welcoming of trans, nonbinary, and gender nonconforming people. LGBTQ+ clients may want to prioritize rehab programs that are explicitly supportive of their life experiences.

People of any demographic may benefit from attending rehab with a cohort of people who share an aspect of their specific identity. You may feel safe among people with a similar vocation, age, religion, or gender. Being in a group of people like you can facilitate communication, and cut down on any potential distractions from recovery. This focused approach may also give you insights into your relationship with addiction, especially as it relates to your unique identity.

Gender-Specific Risk Factors for Substance Use Disorders

People of different genders face differing social pressures. For example, men often feel that they have to make a certain amount of money, repress their emotions, and project an image of strength. Women, on the other hand, often themselves in caretaking roles, prioritizing their loved ones’ needs over their own. All of these social pressures can contribute to mental health issues and substance use disorders. However, they often cause men and women to experience different kinds of distress.

Trauma

Anyone can be affected by trauma. Many people develop PTSD or CPTSD as a result of traumatic experiences, and these conditions often affect people with substance use disorders. However, research shows that women entering rehab for drug addiction2 self-report “much greater proportions of past and current physical and sexual abuse than men.”

Attending a women-only rehab program may let clients heal among peers who share their understanding of trauma, which allows you to speak in shorthand. This cuts down on the emotional labor that’s necessary to describe your perspective. As a result, you may get more immediate and fulfilling support from the people in your group. Those with co-occurring PTSD and addiction, or who otherwise have concerns about underlying trauma, may also want to consider attending a rehab that offers trauma-informed care.

sunrise recovery ranch mens rehab
In the men’s program at Sunrise Recovery Ranch, clients work through “the pain, embarrassment, anger, and fear surrounding an addiction that can ultimately lead to relapsing.”

Shame

Although “the rate of substance abuse and dependence is higher among men3 than it is among women,” men tend to enter treatment later in the course of addiction than women do. This may be because there is a greater stigma attached to the idea of seeking help among men than there is among women. That stigma is isolating and extremely harmful. As a result, men may feel it’s better to suffer in silence than it is to get the help they need and deserve.

In a men’s rehab program, clients can work through some of this socially imposed shame among people who innately understand the pressures they face in their daily lives. Just by being present with each other, clients are reminded that they’re not alone. This facilitates community building, which is an important part of recovery.

Co-Occurring Disorders

Dual diagnoses can contribute to addictive tendencies for people of any gender. Research suggests that the prevalence of certain diagnoses varies between men and women.

One study on gender differences in substance use disorders4 found that women “have a significantly higher prevalence of comorbid psychiatric disorders, such as depression and anxiety, than do men, and these disorders typically predate the onset of substance-abuse problems.” However, Glen R. Hanson, Acting Director of the National Institute on Drug Abuse, believes this data may be misleading. He explains, “Depression is much more common among women than men in the general public. This gender difference is much less pronounced among drug abusers. Possible explanations are that depression is a more potent risk factor for drug abuse among men than among women, or that drug abuse is more likely to cause depression among men5 than among women.”

Because of these distinctions, men, and women may require radically different kinds of therapy and medical treatment. By working with a team that specializes in rehab for people of your gender, it may be easier to get the specific kind of help you need.

Specific Addictions

Men and women have tendencies to misuse different substances. For instance, when compared to women, men are twice as likely to develop alcohol addictions.6 Experts say, “For most of American history, men were much more likely than women to drink alcohol and use illicit drugs recreationally, while women were more likely to be prescribed drugs as medicine.”7

These distinctions may be due to the different expectations that society places on men and women. Men are encouraged to go out and impress their friends and colleagues. This makes it easy for them to develop—and then to hide—addictive behaviors. On the other hand, women’s health issues are chronically under-researched and misunderstood.8 As this begins to change, there is hope that women may have more resources for healing from substance use disorders.

Susceptibility to Cravings

Overall, “women may be more susceptible [than men] to craving and relapse9 which are key phases of the addiction cycle.” This may be connected to gender-specific tendencies toward depression and anxiety. Hanson writes, “Among men relapse is more likely to be associated with anxiety and positive feelings,10 while among women depression and negative feelings appear to be more common triggers.”

Part of any rehab program includes the process of planning for aftercare. Your specific risk factors for relapse may impact how your team of healthcare providers helps you prepare for life after rehab.

hannahs house womens rehab
Hannah’s House focuses on issues that many women face, including “body image issues, financial inequality, burnout, trauma, and mental health disorders.”

Gender-Specific Approaches to Treatment

If you choose to attend a gender-specific rehab program, you’ll likely spend your time there focused on the common experiences of people who share your gender identity. Although no two people have the exact same history, these commonalities empower clients to teach and learn from each other. Doing this in a protected environment may make it even easier to build strong relationships with your peers.

Treatment for Women

Women-only rehab tends to focus on trauma and relationships with loved ones. In an effort to make clients feel as safe as possible, many of these programs even have all-female teams of therapists and other staff.

Hannah’s House, a rehab center in Texas, is one facility that exclusively treats women. This program focuses on issues that many women face, including “body image issues, financial inequality, burnout, trauma, and mental health disorders.” Their clinicians are experts in these specific areas. In fact, ““each primary therapist is a masters-level clinician, experienced in treating…physical and sexual trauma, disordered eating, body-image issues, self-harm issues, and other challenges commonly facing women with addictions.”

While Hannah’s House only treats women, some rehab centers offer separate treatment programs for both women and men. If you attend this type of program, you’ll be surrounded by people of your gender, although both programs may take place on the same campus.

Sunrise Recovery Ranch, for example, is structured this way. They recognize that “The unfortunate reality is that many women who have abused or become addicted to alcohol,11 cocaine, heroin, stimulants, or prescription painkillers have also experienced domestic violence, assault, or other forms of trauma.” While these and other issues may impact people of any gender, their program honors the fact that “addressing them in a mixed-gender setting may preclude some women from receiving the full benefit of the therapeutic experience.”

Treatment for Men

It’s true that, in many cultures, men experience less societal oppression than women. However, the presence of women in a treatment program may still be a trigger for some men, either as a distraction from the emotional work at hand or due to the pressure to present a certain image.

In the men’s program at Sunrise Recovery Ranch, clients work through “the pain, embarrassment, anger, and fear surrounding an addiction that can ultimately lead to relapsing.” By doing this surrounded only by men, they may be able to get some much-needed space from these emotions. This allows clients to hone certain skills, such as emotion regulation and distress tolerance, before returning to their lives outside of treatment.

Soberman’s Estate, in Arizona, is a men’s-only rehab. Unlike Sunrise Recovery Ranch, there are no women on-site at the facility. This program is designed for professional men aged 30-80, and provides treatment with a focus on the emotional issues unique to men with substance use disorders. They honor the fact that “it takes courage to reach out for help, and that confidentiality and convenience are important to you.”

This luxury rehab provides amenities that may be of particular interest to the clients they serve. Specifically, it offers clients access to a putting green, a fire pit, and a farm-to-table menu. Rehab is hard work, but recovery doesn’t have to take place in isolation. This is a place where men can learn or relearn how to enjoy the healthy pleasures that life has to offer.

Specialized Care for People of Different Genders

Individualized treatment can be extremely helpful for anyone in recovery, regardless of gender. Alex Spritzer, Family Addiction and Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner at The Hope House Scottsdale, says, “The biggest takeaway I’ve ever learned from addiction medicine is that everyone’s going to be different and they’re going to require different needs. Looking at relapse rates and the challenges people have in staying sober, there’s a uniqueness about that.”

This philosophy can be applied specifically, by creating a bespoke treatment regimen for every individual client, or more broadly, by offering unique programs to people of diverse identities. It’s especially important in the context of gender because women and men often have such different social experiences of addiction.

One study found that although “women and men have similar outcomes after treatment for substance use disorders…women might experience greater sensitivity to stress or the cues associated with the drug.”12 Furthermore, “women who are addicted experience greater stigma than do men; this combined with less social support means more isolation and greater risk for relapse for women than men.”

These differences not only impact each individual client’s experience of addiction; they also change the way other people treat men and women with substance use disorders. And recovery isn’t just about improving your mental health; it’s also about improving your life and your relationships. With that in mind, gender-specific programs may take different approaches to medical treatment, types of therapy, and even the length of a client’s stay in a residential program.

The Question of Gender

While these programs may be very helpful to some, they are not effective for all clients. If you’re not concerned with the way your experience of gender has affected your substance use, it may be unnecessary to find a gender-specific program. In addition, non-binary, gender non-conforming, and transgender clients may find these programs to be isolating, or even to exacerbate dysphoria.

Other clients may benefit from seeking treatment with a co-ed group, in which they have the opportunity to learn from people whose life experiences are vastly different from their own. It’s important to find a program that makes you feel safe, but doesn’t isolate you from the interactions that will help you grow.

Reconnect With Yourself Through Community

Gender-specific rehab is a protected space. Clients can trust that they already share certain experiences with the other people in their cohort. When everyone in the room has the same basic understanding of one aspect of your identity, it’s easier to share tactics for how to effectively navigate the world around you.

These programs offer you insight into the ways that your experience of gender may impact your relationship with substances. Many people turn to substances as a way of numbing the pain or dissociating from the trauma caused by social pressures. Being surrounded by people who you know have been subject to those same challenges can be extremely validating.

Perhaps most importantly, gender-specific rehab allows you to connect with your peers in a unique way. As you watch the people in your cohort learn and grow, reintegrating the different aspects of their identities, you may find it easier to do the same. This can support you in learning the skills you need to find joy and meaning in life throughout recovery.

If you’d like to begin recovery in a gender-specific rehab, learn more about these programs in our searchable list.

Frequently Asked Questions About Gender-Specific Addiction Treatment

What is gender-specific addiction treatment?

Gender-specific addiction treatment refers to rehab programs that cater specifically to people of a particular gender. These programs recognize the unique experiences, social pressures, and risk factors associated with substance use disorders based on gender. They provide a safe and supportive environment for recovery, addressing gender-related trauma, relationship dynamics, and other specific needs.

How does gender-specific rehab benefit people in recovery?

By being surrounded by peers who share their gender identity, people in recovery can connect with others with similar experiences, reducing the need to self-censor their experiences. This safe environment allows patients to go deeper into their healing journey and facilitates communication, community building, and a deeper understanding of addiction.

Are gender-specific rehab programs suitable for everyone?

Gender-specific rehab programs may not be suitable for everyone. While they provide valuable support and understanding for many, those who don’t feel their gender identity significantly impacts their substance use may not require a gender-specific program. Additionally, non-binary, gender non-conforming, and transgender folks may find these programs isolating. It’s important to find a rehab program that aligns with your specific needs and makes you feel safe while also allowing for diverse interactions and growth.