The NA Blog would like to share this emotionally gripping testimonial written by a recovering addict about the importance of choosing the correct rehab program for making a recovery.  Please keep in mind that the author’s identity has been kept anonymous for the sake of maintaining the basic premise within NA of anonymity.

Choosing the right rehab program

I’m not proud of where I have been, but I am about where my life is going.  If opening myself up to my past and helping others learn from it can save them from the nightmares and the horror stories of addiction that used to cloud my life, then it’s an exercise well worth it.

One of the things I was really nervous about when I started trying to get clean was deciding which rehab program would be right for me. I had a lot of wrong ideas back then, but now having completed it all, I’m hopeful that I can help others find a place worth their time that gives them the kind of attention and care that they deserve.

Here are 6 things anyone should think about when deciding on a substance abuse treatment and rehabilitation program according to the :
1. Is there ongoing assessment of an individual’s treatment plan to ensure it meets changing needs? As you move through each phase of your treatment you’ll notice your needs change and your treatment needs to keep pace with that.
2. Does the program employ strategies to engage and keep individuals in longer-term treatment, increasing the likelihood of success? You didn’t become an addict in one day and you aren’t going to become healthy in one day either.
3. Does the program offer counseling (individual and group) and other behavioral therapies to enhance the individual’s ability to function in the family/community? Staying sober in rehab isn’t easy, but it’s a lot easier than staying sober after you get back home. Make sure your program is ready to help with that transition.
4. Does the program offer medication as part of the treatment regimen, if appropriate? Some patients benefit from a wide range of addiction inhibitors including antibuse or methadone. Be sure your rehab center is fully equipped.
5. Is there ongoing monitoring of possible relapse to help guide patients back to abstinence? If you learn nothing else from me… always remember this, you can’t be your own sponsor just like you can’t be your own shadow!
6. Are services or referrals offered to family members to ensure they understand addiction and the recovery process to help them support the recovering individual? Addiction is a disease. It doesn’t only affect the addict, it affects everyone you know and interact with. Make sure the treatment includes your loved ones, they need help healing too!