Drug Rehab

What is Short Term Drug Rehab?

Based on the principle that it takes 28 days to make or break a habit, short term drug rehab programs usually last for 28 days and, during that time, provide drug detoxification, intensive addiction counseling, therapy, education and support.

The first phase of a short term rehab program is detoxification. Years of drug or alcohol abuse result in an accumulation of toxins – as long as residual toxins remain in the body they will trigger mental and physical cravings for the drug of abuse, making recovery nearly impossible. There are a variety of detoxification methods based on the drug used and the quantity and duration of its use. The drug detox regimen can vary to suit the unique needs of each individual, and can include anything from medical support to increased exercise to healthy diet changes or the use of saunas.

Once the detox process is complete, the next phase of addiction treatment involves examining and exploring the underlying mental and emotional causes of the drug addiction, stresses that trigger addictive behavior, and tools that can be used in the future to avoid relapse. This takes place via one-on-one therapy sessions with qualified addiction counselors, some of whom may even be recovered addicts themselves, as well as in group settings with fellow recovering addicts.

Everyone, from medical staff to counselors to support personnel, who is involved in the rehab process is one-hundred-percent committed to the common goal of helping someone addicted to drugs or alcohol achieve freedom from their addiction. Because a 28-day rehab program is conducted on an in-patient basis, meaning an addict resides at the drug rehab treatment center for the entire duration of the program, he or she is surrounded only by those who support their decision to get clean. There is no danger of access to drugs, pressure from fellow users or any of the daily stressors that may trigger addictive behavior. This is especially important since the first part of any recovery is the most prone to relapse.

After spending a full four weeks focused on cleansing the body and learning about the underlying causes of addiction, an addict is not expected to integrate back into their daily life and routines without any follow-up support. A plan for continued therapy is provided, along with the tools to recognize the need for help, and where to find it. While 28 days is sufficient time to change a habit, a former addict needs to know that they are never alone in their struggle against addiction.

There are times, such as in severe cases of addiction, or when addiction is accompanied by a mental disorder, that longer stays in rehab may be warranted. However, for most people, it is often not practical or necessary to spend three months or more in a drug rehabilitation treatment program. In some cases, a 28-day drug rehab program is sufficient to integrate an addict back into daily life, fully equipped with all the tools necessary to enjoy a drug or alcohol-free life to the fullest.