So many people struggle with addiction but fail to seek treatment. For some, failure to seek treatment is tied to some misconceptions they hold regarding the way rehab works. They might picture cold, stark walls and long days spent meeting with a therapist between sessions of watching television alone. But this is hardly how modern rehab works. Drug addiction treatment has come a long way over the past several decades. Here is a look at some of the advancements that have made rehab a better option than ever for anyone who struggles with addiction.
1. Improved outpatient options
In the past, rehab was specifically an inpatient program. Sure, you could see a therapist for an hour a week outside of a formal rehab program, but there really were not structured, all-encompassing programs for people who preferred to stay in their own homes. Now, if you cannot attend inpatient rehab, there are outpatient programs that include a variety of different meetings, appointments, and therapy routines so you can get comprehensive treatment but return to your own bed at night. This setup works really well for parents and for employed people who don't want to risk their job by enrolling in an inpatient clinic.
2. Better therapy options
Basic "talk therapy" was the name of the game for many years. It works for some people, and it is still an option in most rehab centers. However, therapists have now begun to rely on more distinct, evidence-based modalities including cognitive behavioral therapy and contingency management therapy. These types of therapy generally seek to identify the cause behind someone's addictive behavior and then address that cause while teaching new, healthier replacement behaviors. This is a more effective approach because it treats the root cause of addiction.
3. Less blame and shame
For years, addiction was treated as something to be ashamed of, and people struggling with addiction were blamed for their problems. Attitudes have shifted as doctors and researchers have become more aware that addiction is a symptom of an underlying mental health problem and is not the fault of the patient. This has lead to more kind, caring approaches in rehab. If you've been avoiding rehab because you feel ashamed or guilty, it's time to move forward — this is not your fault.
Rehab has changed a lot over the past few decades, and it has really changed for the better. If you need addiction treatment, seek out a drug rehab near you.
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