Reaching out for help is difficult. For many people struggling with addiction and substance abuse, it takes a tragic event to trigger the acceptance and realization that there's a problem. At that point, relationships may be broken, jobs might be lost, and the person in question may feel they have hit rock bottom.
Choosing the right rehabilitation center can mean the difference between getting caught in the cycle and breaking it. Here are six tips to help guide the process.
Ask for Recommendations
The first step when choosing a rehab center is to ask for recommendations from health professionals. Your family doctor or local resource center might have a list of centers their patients have successfully worked with.
If you feel comfortable, you can also ask your broader community for recommendations or about their experiences. Instead of relying solely on online reviews, ask to speak to someone privately so you can ask questions and get more details about the process. Facilitators at local NA and AA meetings can also help.
Determining Your Needs
Different rehab centers offer different services. Some are focused purely on the detox process, while others offer an array of support services, from therapy to community work. Additionally, some locations provide outpatient services while others have accommodations.
Take some time to determine what you need to help overcome your addiction. Many people who struggle with substance abuse are trauma survivors. Thus, a detox-only center won't help get to the root cause of your issues or process those underlying problems that are fueling the addiction. Finding a center that offers additional support and counseling can be incredibly beneficial for long-term success.
Check Your Insurance Coverage
Unfortunately, rehabilitation programs can be expensive. Often, people struggling with substance abuse are also coming from poor socioeconomic backgrounds or are struggling with their finances due to their addiction.
It's essential to check your insurance coverage and eligibility when seeking an appropriate center. According to the treatment specialists at www.racnj.com, some insurance providers cover the cost of rehab treatments, but sometimes, this coverage is limited.
It's best to check your coverage options in the early stages of sourcing a rehabilitation center. Knowing this information can also help you understand the out-of-pocket costs you may have to cover.
Look for Social Proof
Online reviews and website testimonials can be a great source of information. However, it's also integral to look beyond those highlights and cross-reference with other sources.
When vetting a rehab center, you should look for accolades as well as certifications. There should be special licenses associated with running rehab programming. Confirming those licenses are valid can help verify the legitimacy of the organization.
You can also run a Google news search to determine if the center or any staff are involved in the community. Of course, if you're getting your recommendation from a health professional or resource center, there's no need to go as in-depth.
Evaluate the Location
The rehab center's location should also play a role in your decision. If you're looking for an outpatient service, you'll want a location that's relatively convenient as you go about your daily life. If you're looking for a center with inpatient services, you can cast a broader net.
Sometimes it's worth going a bit out of the way for better service. However, if that inconvenience is going to be too disruptive, look for closer options.
Ask About Aftercare and Follow-Up
Evaluating a rehab center's aftercare options and follow-up plans is essential, especially when considering inpatient services. One of the challenges many users face is setting boundaries and adjusting their new lifestyle to suit what they've accomplished in rehab.
While relapse is a part of the rehabilitation process, having the right support measures in place can help promote better recovery and create correction plans.
Use this simple guide to find the right rehabilitation center to get you or your loved one back on track.