As if the stress of dealing with your child’s addiction wasn’t hard enough, finding a treatment program can be an overwhelming process. There are so many different options to choose from that it can be hard for you to decide what’s best for your teen. However, there are some important things to keep in mind when you’re choosing a treatment program such as the price, the program’s guiding principle and inpatient versus outpatient treatment options.
We’ve put together a checklist for you to go through when choosing a program to ensure your teen is getting the treatment that best suits them and their preferences.
Inpatient versus Outpatient
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When most people think of rehab, they think of an inpatient facility, which has patients in treatment stay overnight in rehab. However, there are a growing number of outpatient day programs where the patient spends the day at rehab to receive treatment and therapy, but returns home for the evening and night. If you don’t think an inpatient rehab would suit you or your teen’s lifestyle, you may want to consider an outpatient rehab facility.
Price
The cost of treatment is what deters so many people from getting the help they desperately need. However, you may be surprised at how many treatment options are available for families who are struggling with finances. Some treatment programs are government funded and offer treatment for free or on a sliding scale; other treatment programs are expensive, but may be covered by your insurance plan. Talk to your local government agency or your insurance provider about your needs; they may be able to help you out more than you think.
Location
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Rehab centers are located all over America, and there are even some treatment centers for Americans that are located in international destinations. While some people prefer to go out of state for treatment so that they’re not surrounded by familiar faces, places and temptations, others prefer having their family and friends close by as they go through treatment. With this in mind, consider whether your teen would benefit more from a treatment program that is local or away from home.
Guiding Principle
Every rehab program has a slightly different approach to treating addiction. Some are guided by holistic treatments such as meditation, animal or equine therapy, art therapy and mindfulness, while others are based upon practices such as medication and regular appointments with a psychiatrist. Other programs are a blend between both holistic and traditional medical practices. You’ll want to choose a program that aligns with your values and beliefs, so don’t hesitate to contact different rehab centers for more information about their guiding principles and how they help treat addiction.
When it comes to choosing a rehab center, take the time to think about your teen’s values and preferences and go over all of your options together. Seeking treatment is a big step, but recovery is worth the work it takes to get there.
Feature Image: Stefan Stefancik
