Drug rehab can be a life-changing experience that helps you get to the root of your addiction and learn how to cope without relying on drugs or alcohol. Drug addiction is considered a chronic but treatable disorder, and treatment can help you manage your illness. So what is drug rehab like?
The structure of drug rehab varies from program to program, but typically each day will be filled with evidence-based treatment activities intended to help you make long-term changes in your behaviors and attitudes toward drugs and alcohol.
These activities may include the following:
- Attending group therapy sessions
- Participating in individual counseling sessions
- Doing educational classes or lectures on addiction-related topics
- Engaging in therapeutic activities such as art or music therapy
- Taking part in physical activities such as hiking or biking
- Attending support group meetings
- Learning new skills for managing cravings.
What is offered and what you can participate in will depend on the facility. It’s also important to note that what your daily schedule looks like varies greatly depending on what type of program you are attending.
Attending an addiction treatment program isn’t easy but it is an important step toward long-term sobriety. While each person’s experience may be different, having an understanding of what to expect can help make the process a bit less intimidating. With the right attitude and dedication, recovery from substance use disorder is possible.
Types of Therapy You’ll Attend Regularly
Generally, days in rehab are broken up into programs such as group therapy sessions, individual therapy sessions, educational classes, art therapy, and recreation. Depending on the facility, there may also be holistic therapies such as yoga or acupuncture available. It is important to remember that what seems like a daunting schedule is actually a very structured way of helping participants rebuild their lives.
Group Therapy
Group therapy provides a therapeutic environment for individuals to openly share their feelings and experiences with others going through similar struggles. Trained therapists lead these discussions, which are designed to identify underlying issues and areas of focus in order for participants to build positive coping mechanisms.
Individual Therapy
One-on-one sessions provide an opportunity for clients to discuss their experiences in a safe and secure environment. These sessions allow clients to build on what they’ve learned in group therapy and practice what they’ve learned with the help of their therapist.
Family Therapy
Family therapy is designed to help family members understand what their loved ones are going through and provide support throughout the recovery process. It also provides an opportunity for families to communicate openly, set boundaries, and find ways to work together in order to achieve common goals.
Relapse Prevention Planning
Relapse prevention planning is an important part of the recovery process. Clients work with their therapist to create a plan that will help them recognize and avoid triggers, build coping skills, and maintain sobriety in the long term. Relapse prevention training and planning are paramount in addiction treatment as the primary goal of rehab is to overcome addiction permanently.
Recreational or Holistic Activities
Participants often have free time during the day to engage in activities such as exercise, creative outlets like music or art, or simply relaxation. Common forms of holistic therapy also typically include yoga and some form of meditation. Many drug rehab facilities offer these to provide clients with a more well-rounded treatment experience in addition to substance abuse education and therapy.
What Should I Bring to Drug Rehab?
When preparing for what to bring with you to drug rehab, it is important to know what items are allowed and what items are restricted or prohibited. Generally speaking, most rehabilitation centers will not allow electronics such as cell phones, computers, or tablets. While the exact list of what can be brought may vary from program to program, some common items that are generally allowed include books, journals/notebooks, and comfortable clothing.
Participants should also plan to bring items like toiletries, any medications or vitamins taken regularly, and any other personal belongings that will make them feel more comfortable during their stay in rehab. Most centers also provide medical supplies and other materials needed for the duration of a person’s treatment program.
Overcoming Emotions While in Drug Rehab
Finally, what is drug rehab like from an emotional perspective? It can be difficult to adjust to life away from friends and family while in rehab. Many people often experience feelings of loneliness or sadness when they first enter a facility. However, with the help and support of staff members, many participants find that their feelings gradually subside as time goes on. Additionally, with the right attitude, many participants come to appreciate the opportunity to focus on themselves and build new relationships with others in recovery.
What Does a Typical Day in Rehab Look Like?
A typical day in rehab involves various activities designed to help individuals heal and grow. Every participant’s individualized treatment plan is based on what is best for their specific situation, so what one person experiences may be different from what another does.
Mornings in Drug Rehab
Mornings typically begin with a healthy breakfast and can include individual counseling sessions or group therapy classes. As the day progresses, participants may find themselves attending educational classes, learning what their triggers are, how to better manage stress or anger, as well as what strategies they can use for relapse prevention over time.
Afternoons in Drug Rehab
The afternoon portion of your drug rehab schedule may include more individual or group counseling sessions. It can also be filled with recreational activities such as trips to the beach, swimming, camping, and hiking. Away from the treatment facility, there are often art classes or other activities designed to help individuals express their feelings without using drugs or alcohol.
Evenings in Drug Rehab
The evenings are often the most relaxed time of a drug rehab day. There may be organized programs such as Alcoholics Anonymous and Narcotics Anonymous meetings or classes on nutrition, stress management, and healthy lifestyle choices. During this time individuals can also spend time with other residents in the facility, watch movies or relax with their favorite books.
Will I Have Any Free Time in Drug Rehab?
The amount of free time available during a stay in drug rehab may also depend on the type of facility attended and how far along someone is in their recovery journey. Most programs offer recreational activities such as sports at specific times throughout the week. Depending on the individual’s progress made during treatment, they may be allowed to leave the facility on certain days for outings, such as visiting family or friends.
Understanding the Goal is Long Term Recovery from Addiction
The goal of rehab is to give you the skills and knowledge needed to lead a healthy lifestyle without substance use. This process can be time-consuming and difficult but it is worth it for long-term sobriety. During your free time in rehab, you may find yourself engaging in activities such as board games, arts and crafts projects, watching movies or listening to music, playing sports, or working out at the facility’s gym. You may even have the opportunity to go on field trips or take classes.
To Sum Up the Drug Rehab Experience
Overall, what is drug rehab like? A typical day at a drug rehab usually involves counseling sessions and engaging in recreational activities during free time. Participants should expect to follow a set schedule that helps them focus their energy on recovery while also providing some amount of flexibility. To learn more about what you can expect at a particular facility or program it’s best to reach out directly to the facility. They can provide you with more specific details.
Written by Bobby Lentz, Content Specialist
Bobby Lentz earned a Bachelor’s degree in Journalism and Sociology from Florida Atlantic University. Bobby has been a content production specialist for 5+ years and has been specializing in content creation regarding mental health and substance use for 2+ years.
