Drug Addiction Treatment: Here Are 9 Most Effective Rehab Approaches

While drug addiction may seem complicated, it’s something that can still be managed and treated. According to professionals, however, there’s no one-size-fits-all solution. This is why many California drug rehab centers strive hard to create personalized plans for their patients and help them recover and start anew.

In this article, we’re delving into the most effective drug rehab programs available.

Detoxification. Did you know that an unguided withdrawal from a certain substance can lead to life-threatening negative effects? This is why the process of detoxification should be done with assistance from medical experts. The goal of detoxification is also to address any underlying causes of the substance abuse.

Cognitive behavioral therapy. One of the therapies offered by California drug rehab centers is the CBT. This treatment tool determines and addresses the unhealthy behavioral patterns and tendencies of a drug addict. This is usually combined with other therapy-based approaches.

Rational emotive behavior therapy. Many drug abusers suffer from constantly dealing with negativity in life. The goal of the REBT is to help these people fight and overcome their pessimistic thoughts. With this technique, patients are ushered into having a clearer mind and a more rational way of thinking — equipping them with mental strength to face their stressors.

Contingency management. This technique is used to treat more than just drug abuse; it’s also helpful for those who have tobacco and alcohol addiction. Typically employed to prevent relapse, CM offers patients tangible rewards to help reinforce their positive behavior.

Motivational interviewing. In motivational interviewing, a therapist helps patients regain control over themselves and better combat their problematic behavior. During the course of the session, the patients themselves will be encouraged to identify their own motivation.

Treatment with medication. Drug rehab professionals know how complex drug addiction may be. And in some cases, patients need to undergo treatment with FDA-approved medication to reduce their cravings for the substance they’re abusing. The medication plan is accompanied by different behavioral therapies to make it more effective.

Short-term residential treatment. Rehabilitation also involves group therapies like the so-called 12-step facilitation therapy. In this method, patients are encouraged to recognize the consequences that their addiction has brought forth, and provide mutual support to each other. The short-term residential treatment is more like a modified 12-step approach, which covers around 3 to 6-week facility-based treatment plus an extensive outpatient therapy.

Long-term residential treatment. Unlike the previous approach, long-term residential treatment lasts for around 6 to 12 months. During this period, 24/7 care is provided in non-hospital settings. A common form of this treatment is having the patient live in a therapeutic community, which includes staff, other residents, and a set social context to help patients reintegrate themselves back into society.

Outpatient treatment program. Many California drug rehab facilities know that not all patients don’t have the luxury of time to undergo an in-house treatment program for a long period. This is why outpatient treatment programs, whose main goal is to prevent relapse, are utilized to help them get treated during the day (or evening) — a schedule that takes into account their schooling or work.