What to Expect At a Residential Drug Abuse Program

For many addicts, confronting an addiction is often a scary and unfamiliar commitment. Often times an addict has isolated himself and feels as though he has nowhere to turn for acceptance and understanding. Once the decision is made to enroll in a residential drug abuse program, preparing for what's to come can seem like a daunting task.

First and foremost, it is important to ensure that one's home and work are taken care of before leaving. For example, addicts who have pets or children should arrange for a caretaker and addicts who have jobs should alert their management that they will need to take a medical leave of absence.

When packing for a long residential stay, from 4 weeks to 3 months, it is important to pack clothing that will be appropriate for the facility area's climate. If you are heading to Denver, pack a warm coat. If you are heading to California, bring along swimwear.

Upon arrival, patient orientation will take place. This is an opportunity to tour the facility and meet the nurses, doctors, and psychotherapists that will be there to assist in the recovery process. The next step in the residential rehabilitation process is meeting with a specific professional to asses the addiction at hand and analyze family history, personality traits, and lifestyle.

Once a patient diagnosis is complete, a detoxification program will follow. Though initially it seems scary because of the side effects that can occur, in the long run the detox will clear the toxins and chemicals from the body to assist in recovering from addiction.

After detoxification and for the rest of treatment, a patient at a residential rehabilitation program will attend structured meetings, counseling sessions, and additional treatment that is assigned according to the substance addiction. Many times, post-treatment continues once the patient is immersed back into his home life.