Wouldn’t it be great if drug rehab treatment was successful each and every time? People would be more motivated to enter treatment and addiction wouldn’t be the debilitating problem that it is. Unfortunately, drug rehab doesn’t work for everyone – at least the first time around. There are a number of reasons for this, including the program being a poor fit and having inadequate support at home.
Now, it’s important to note that addiction treatment is effective and not a waste of time. But, some addicts go through multiple treatment programs until they’re able to get better. Fortunately, there are some ways you can maximize your success in rehab, and it all starts with choosing the right program.
Let’s explore some of the reasons why drug rehab treatment doesn’t always work and ways to find a program that gives you the best chances for success.
Why Drug Rehab Sometimes Fails
At Awakenings Treatment Center, we work with many clients who have already been through several treatment centers. Some of the reasons why these individuals struggle to stay sober are:
Treatment wasn’t long enough.
A big misconception about drug rehab is that you will be better in 30 days. People think that once they stop using drugs or alcohol, they’ll be able to keep things this way. But just like a bad fad diet, quitting drugs or alcohol for a few weeks isn’t enough to sustain a healthy recovery. Addicts need to unlearn harmful behaviors and beliefs, discover new ways to cope and heal past trauma.
Furthermore, if you go right back into the same environment, it’s going to be extremely difficult to stay sober. To succeed in recovery, you need continued treatment. We recommend choosing a treatment center that offers some level of continuing care or aftercare.
You have post-acute withdrawal syndrome.
Post-acute withdrawal syndrome, or PAWS, is a cluster of symptoms that occur for several weeks or months after you stop using drugs or alcohol. Some of the most common symptoms of PAWS are depression, anxiety, insomnia, mood swings, and low energy. Obviously, having these symptoms makes it more difficult to get motivated about rehab.
It’s not until about 90 days that people start “waking up” because the symptoms of PAWS are lifted. If you’re only in a treatment program for 30 or 60 days, you’ll be returning home with these powerful withdrawal symptoms, making it harder to stay sober.
You were given the wrong diagnosis.
Substance use co-occurs with many other conditions, including eating disorders, mental health disorders, trauma disorders, and even ADHD and autism. These conditions often go hand in hand because people use substances to cope with their symptoms.
If your drug rehab only addressed your substance abuse, it’s possible that you have an underlying mental health disorder that wasn’t properly diagnosed. Without treatment, the symptoms of this condition will continue to cause problems that make it easier to relapse.
For the most comprehensive treatment, it’s best to choose a dual diagnosis rehab in California that has experience diagnosing and treating co-occurring disorders.
You returned to the same living environment.
A big reason why people go right back to the same habits is that they return to the same living environment.
Perhaps your family has addiction problems of their own or doesn’t know how to be supportive of your recovery. Maybe you have friends or coworkers who are urging you to go out for a drink. Or it’s possible that all the stress of work, a tumultuous family life, etc. make you want to start using again.
Extended treatment and a strong aftercare program can provide you with the structure and support you need to stay sober. But it’s possible that you may need to reside in a sober living facility until you are strong enough in your recovery to return home.
What to Do if Drug Rehab Didn’t Work for You
If drug rehab was unsuccessful, the first step is to figure out why. The examples above can help you determine this. Was treatment not long enough? Is there too much stress at home? Do you believe you have an underlying mental health disorder? Once you identify the reason, it will be easier to choose a treatment program that better meets your needs.
You also need to be honest with yourself about what you can handle. Some people are chronic relapsers, and if you are one of them, you are going to need more structure and support than someone who isn’t. This may involve residing in sober living or staying in an extended treatment program for at least three months.
If you’re not sure why the treatment didn’t work, it’s possible that you just need to try again. The skills and tools you learn in rehab continue building on each other, so don’t think that you failed and got nothing out of treatment. Try to pick up the pieces, be honest about your needs and continue chipping away at your recovery.
Tips for Finding the Best Drug Rehab Treatment Program
When selecting a new treatment program, be sure to keep the following tips in mind:
- Choose a drug or alcohol rehab that supports your addiction and any co-occurring conditions you may have. Awakenings Treatment Center can treat eating disorders, PTSD, schizophrenia, chronic pain, and more.
- Make sure you are comfortable with the treatment program. This makes it easier to open up. For example, some people prefer programs that cater to trauma victims or members of the LGBTQ+ community.
- Look for comprehensive treatment centers that offer a balance of evidence-based therapies and holistic therapies like yoga, acupuncture, and nutritional education. This will help you establish healthy habits.
- Verify your insurance coverage with the rehab facility. Many rehabs accept insurance, which will reduce your out-of-pocket expenses and allow you to stay in treatment longer.
- Always read the reviews and testimonials from past clients. What did they like about the program? Were there things that could have been better? Also, be sure to choose facilities that are properly licensed and accredited.
Start Your Recovery at Awakenings Treatment Center
Awakenings Treatment Center is a drug rehab in Agoura Hills, California, that offers comprehensive treatment. Contact our admissions department and we’ll be happy to determine the best level of care for your needs. We also accept most major insurance carriers and are proud to be a Dr. Phil Preferred Facility. You are in good hands with us!