If you’re wondering if it’s time for rehab, the first thing you need to do is ignore the myths or misconceptions you’ve heard.  For instance, some people say you need to hit rock bottom before getting treatment, but they are wrong.  Experts agree that the sooner you enter rehab, the easier it will be and your recovery will be more lasting.

Also, don’t fool yourself into thinking you have the substance use under control.  Sure, you continue working.  Maybe you spend time with your family and also keep all the bills paid.  But, the fact is, you are what is known as a high-functioning addict.  It won’t be long before the drugs or alcohol take control completely.

Why wait until things begin falling apart before you seek help?  Do it now so you can prevent that dreadful scenario.  If you aren’t sure it’s time for rehab, the following facts should help you make an informed decision.

Is It Time For Rehab?  Look for These Warning Signs

If you’ve honestly tried to give up drugs or alcohol and have failed, that is one of the main warning signs that it’s time for rehab.  The important thing to remember is that substance abuse is a complex disorder.  Many factors are involved such as physical, emotional, environmental, and spiritual issues.  Professional treatment programs address all aspects of addiction to ensure that you maintain sobriety for a lifetime.

These are some of the common warning signs that you should know:

  • Do you make excuses to justify your substance use?
  • Have you lost interest in social activities that you once enjoyed?
  • Are you finding creative ways to keep your substance use a secret?
  • Do you need more of the substance to get the desired effects?
  • Have you experienced withdrawal symptoms when the substance is withheld?
  • Are you using drugs or alcohol more frequently?
  • Have you lied, stolen, or done anything else to continue your substance use?
  • Do you continue using the substance despite negative consequences?

These signs are a warning that you are gradually losing control of your substance use.  Ignoring these signs ensures that this behavior will continue to intensify.

Are You Nervous About What Happens in Rehab?

As humans, we fear the unknown.  Most of us go about our day despite those fears.  But, when it comes to rehab, many addicts admit they are afraid of what happens during detox and treatment.  This apprehension leads many to avoid rehab until it’s too late.  Their addiction worsens until severe health problems appear or overdose occurs.  You can prevent that from happening to you.

Take a few minutes to contact a few rehabs and ask what their daily curriculum involves.  In most cases, the basic routine includes some of the following:

  • Group and individual counseling sessions
  • Healthy meals and nutritional guidance
  • Exercise and fitness routines
  • Free-time to enjoy games, movies, meditation, etc.
  • Cognitive-behavioral therapy
  • Art or music therapy

According to the National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA), treatment should last for at least 90 days to be effective.

If you’re concerned about detox and withdrawals, you should know that the entire process is monitored by addiction specialists and medical personnel.  Their job is to ensure your comfort and safety at all times.  Remember, the sooner you enter treatment, the fewer problems you’ll have during detox.

Worried About What Happens After Rehab?

People who are recovering from addiction need a strong support system in place before leaving rehab.  At New Beginnings, we work with our patients to develop an aftercare program that will provide continued guidance when they exit our facility.  We don’t want our patients to feel that they are all alone during their transition phase.

For those who don’t have supportive friends or family to help them, an aftercare program is essential to their continued sobriety.  Individuals who take advantage of aftercare experience lower relapse rates.

Some of the ways aftercare programs can assist you:

  • Continued guidance, advice, and encouragement.
  • Keep you focused on recovery to prevent relapse.
  • Support groups, group, or individual counseling.
  • Family counseling and support.

Aftercare programs can include sober living homes, rehab alumni programs, support groups, and self-help or 12-step programs.  Each differs in the services they provide.  However, their goal is to help clients face the challenges of reintegrating into society after rehab.

If you think it’s time for rehab, contact us at New Beginnings today.  We will be happy to tell you about our program and how we can help you get your life back in order.

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