Long-Term Rehab





Long-Term Rehab

Many addicts manage to successfully overcome drug addiction by attending a short-term rehab program. But there are others who suffer from more severe addictions that need treatment with far more attention. For these people, long-term rehab is required.

Who Requires Long-Term Rehab?

Any addict can benefit from attending a long-term rehab program, but there are some specific characteristics of addiction that require long-term rehab over any other option. You should seek long-term rehab if you have:

  • An addiction that has strong physically addictive characteristics
  • An addiction that is coupled with symptoms of depression and other withdrawal signs that relate to metal health
  • A history of mental health issues
  • A history of relapse with drug addiction due to inadequate coping skills

A longer rehab program can help ensure that an individual is able to obtain sobriety for a more extensive period of time.

What Happens in Long-Term Rehab?

Rehab that is long term typically lasts at least 30 days – but programs that last 60 or 90 days are also common. The length of a patient’s stay is often determined by the rehab facility at intake, and based on a patient’s health and addiction history. Intake will also determine exactly what treatment will be taking place in order to maintain recovery on a long-term basis.

Long-term recovery often offers more extensive focus on both dealing with the addiction itself, and on any emotional traumas and mental health issues that may be contributing. Detox is sometimes part of the program, or addicts are required to go to a different facility that specializes in detox first. After detox, a variety of counseling sessions and other activities take place that can aid in recovery.

The Focus of Long-Term Rehab

The following components of long-term rehab aid in recovery:

  • Counseling

    • One-on-one counseling allows addicts to get to the root of their issues with addiction. A trained therapist can help identify and address the emotional problems that can cause individuals to abuse drugs as a coping mechanism.

  • Group Counseling

    • Group counseling allows individuals to share their issues with addiction and challenges overcoming it with peers who get it.

  • Exercise

    • Endorphins produce positive feelings in addicts and also set the foundation for a healthier lifestyle.

  • Nutrition

    • Since part of the goal is to keep addicts healthy once they’re out of rehab, teaching them nutritional habits is also beneficial.

  • Holistic Treatment

There is also holistic treatment offered at some rehab facilities. This can include many natural-based activities and therapies, such as yoga, meditation, art therapy and exercise.

Determining if Long-Term Rehab Is the Right Treatment Option

Any addict who has had a history of relapse and struggled to overcome both the physical and emotional aspects of addiction should consider a long-term treatment center. Psychiatric care can be a long process, and it is best that addicts are removed from distraction so they can focus on getting better before they enter back into the real world.

Finding a Long-Term Rehab Program

Addicts looking into a long-term rehab program need to ensure that they find a facility that they are comfortable with and that meets their needs. It is important that a facility uses treatment methods that an addict is familiar with and that are in line with their beliefs as the program will be extensive. The environment must also suit their needs – an individual accustomed to greater amenities at home may feel much more comfortable in a luxury treatment center, for example.

Additional Treatment Types