Getting help for addiction isn't an immutable process. There are three main types of treatment when it comes to drug or alcohol rehabilitation used by inpatient drug rehab facilities. Generally, all three of these methods will be used in conjunction, but sometimes only one method might be needed. There may be more of an emphasis on one over the other two as the primary form of treatment, or there may be an even balance of all three. Depending what the needs of the dependent person are, the mixing of these services varies.Medical Services
The first method of treatment is medical services. Inpatient drug rehab facilities usually employ a wide array of professionals, from medical doctors and nurses to psychiatrists and therapists. One of the biggest elements of this treatment is medically supervised withdrawal, more commonly known as detox. Withdrawing from a drug can actually be very dangerous, as it an cause seizures, hallucinations, or pain. That being said, coming off a drug is safest when it can be monitored by medical professionals who can eliminate withdrawal symptoms and help speed the process.
Dual Diagnoses
Many times those who are addicted to a substance also may have other illnesses, such as depression or bipolar disorder, which have the potential to make things more difficult. With dual diagnosing, medical doctors and therapists can help patients recovery physically and mentally from addiction in conjunction.
Counseling
Another method of treatment is counseling. Generally, counseling involves a professional psychotherapist with a specialization in addictions and usually takes place in a small group setting, with other victims of addiction participating as well. Through teamwork and cooperation, encouragement and advice is given from the therapist, as well as from others. Personal problems are confronted, with subjects ranging from family issues, gender issues, and meditation. As a method of coping and rehabilitating, group therapy provides a constructive and positive experience that aims to keep recovering people going in the right direction. It also shows that addicts aren't alone, that there are plenty of people who struggle with the same problems.
Education
Finally, education services are used to teach dependent people just what is going on with their bodies and addictions. Education is hugely important, because many times, those who are addicted to a substance don't realize just what it is doing to their body. Addiction is a disease, and learning about it can help addicts rise above and eventually defeat it. Learning the warning signs of addiction is important, because then addicts can monitor themselves and know what is causing their urges. Usually education is based around a 12-step program, which combines medicine, therapy, and psychiatry. Through the help of these professionals and the participating group, education can be a powerful tool in helping dependent people get back to their lives.