mindfulness | addiction | relapse prevention

Going to rehab is daunting. Your drug or alcohol use has spiralled out of control and you need professional help. It may be scary to admit this, but this is also a life-changing opportunity to free yourself from addiction and live a happy and fulfilling life. Well done for taking the first step in recovery!

No matter how distressed or lost you feel right now, you’ve made the right decision to ask for help. It may well save your life, you career and even your marriage. It takes courage and commitment to change destructive behaviours and learn new coping mechanisms.

But in the long run, it is worth it.

How to choose a rehab?

Addiction is often associated with intense feelings of shame and remorse for actions taken while high or drunk. There is no one size fits all rehab solution and it is important to speak to the counsellors. They will be able to advise you on whether you need inpatient treatment, outpatient treatment or detox. Remember, these are trained professionals that completely understand the position you are in.

What is the success rate at a rehab?

If you are willing to put in the work and are ready to change, your chance of recovery increases drastically. Family therapy is also a vital part of the process as it is not only the person who suffers but also family and friends who have been hurt. These people form an integral part of your support structure. Isolation leads to self-destructive behaviour which can lead to a relapse. A good rehab not only offers a robust continuum of care after you have completed your in-patient rehab treatment but also helps you reintegrate with society. Recovery is long-term and relapse prevention techniques are taught in the after care programme.

Do all rehabs follow the 12-Step Minnesota Model?

The 12-Step model is followed by most rehabs and is associated with NA and AA. But this is not the only option. There are other recovery and rehab facilities that make use of non-punitive therapy models. These rehabs focus on the underlying reasons for drug and alcoholism and treat the patient for trauma. PTSD and Chronic PTSD often result in addiction, anxiety and depression problems in adult life, while the root trauma occurred during childhood.

Find the best alcohol treatment centres in South Africa for complete long term recovery from alcohol and drug addiction.