One of the hardest steps in the recovery process is the first one — the one where you decide that you need to seek treatment.
Such a dramatic shift in lifestyle requires a lot of courage, determination and desire for something better. Undoubtedly, you have a lot of questions, and possibly a number of fears and uncertainties about treatment. Like, where do I even begin?
It’s a question many people have, especially if addiction treatment isn’t something you’ve ever done before. Thankfully, there are a number of resources available to answer these questions and help you start down the path toward recovery.
Addiction recovery questions
It’s good to have questions in mind when seeking addiction treatment. The answers to your questions will help you discover a program that will meet your personal needs and lead you to long-term sobriety.
1. What type of treatment will I receive?
Undoubtedly you’re wondering what the treatment itself will look like. Will you participate in group therapy or one-on-one counseling sessions? Is participation in a 12-step program, such as NA or AA, encouraged? Are holistic therapies available? Knowing what to expect from the treatment process can alleviate some of the anxiety associated with beginning a stay at a residential facility and give you a better idea of whether or not the facility is the right fit for you.
There are a wide variety of treatment modalities that are used in addiction treatment, including cognitive behavior therapy, acceptance and commitment therapy and even holistic therapies. By answering questions on an intake form, your counselor will be able to guide you in the direction of treatment modalities that will best address your concerns.
2. Does my insurance cover the cost of treatment?
Many people who choose to pursue treatment for their addiction may feel concerned about the associated costs. But thanks to the Mental Health Parity and Addiction Equity Act of 2008, most commercial health insurance companies will treat and cover substance use disorder the same as they would any type of disease.
When weighing the benefits of addiction treatment, it can be tempting to abandon the idea purely from a financial standpoint. But it’s important to remember that by seeking treatment you’re investing in your future self and potentially saving yourself a lot of time and money in the long run. Before turning down treatment due to finances, reach out to your insurance provider and the treatment facility to see what kind of insurance coverages are offered and to gain a better idea of how treatment would impact you financially.
3. How can my family be involved?
Often addiction can damage the relationships that are most important to us, but having a strong, sober support system can be crucial in ensuring your long-term sobriety. That said, many residential programs feature a family element that allows the person in treatment and their family members to reestablish healthy and productive relationships. These programs may include family counseling sessions or education about the nature of addiction.
Your family can be involved by attending family sessions, coming to see you during visiting hours and preparing the home for when you’re in outpatient care. This may mean making the home a dry environment or dealing with issues in the house that potentially caused/worsened the development of a substance use disorder.
4. Is this the appropriate level of care for me?
Levels of care in addiction treatment means the intensity of care you need to based on the severity of the substance use disorder. You will work with a counselor at your potential facility to determine what level of care is right for you.
Inpatient treatment requires a high level of commitment, including leaving behind friends and family members, but also provides the opportunity to focus solely on your recovery in a safe and private space. Not only will you receive supervised care, but you’ll also learn how to cope positively with outside stressors that may have led to an addiction.
On the less intensive side of the scale would be outpatient treatment, where you commute to and from the treatment center for sessions during the week. You would be expected to attend and partake in meetings and would continue implementing the coping strategies you’re learning in everyday life.
While you may have a feeling regarding the kind of care you need, you will also work closely with an admissions counselor to make sure the level selected for you can guarantee long-term sobriety.
5. How do I get started?
Once you’ve found a treatment center that seems right for your goals, the first step is to reach out to one of the facility’s intake specialists. They will ask some simple questions, work with you to verify your admissions benefits and help you begin the treatment process.
Ready to begin?
At Silvermist Recovery, we can provide the personalized, confidential care you need to truly find recovery. Learn more about the addiction and mental health treatment programs we offer. Contact us anytime with questions or to begin your journey to recovery now.