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What is Rehab Like? Here’s What A Typical Day in Drug Rehab Looks Like

There are approximately 21.5 million people in the United States who are struggling with a substance abuse problem. Of these 21.5 million people, only about 11 percent actually receive treatment each year.

Are you struggling with substance abuse? If so, it’s important to seek treatment as soon as possible. 

Of all the different treatment options available, inpatient treatment appears to be the most beneficial. 

Nervous about entering an inpatient treatment facility? Learning what a typical day is like in such a facility can help to ease your fears.

Read on to learn more about what to expect during a typical day in an inpatient drug rehab facility.

A Typical Day in Inpatient Drug Rehab

Every rehab program is a little different, of course. But, in most cases, a typical day in a rehab facility usually looks something like this:

In the Morning

When you’re part of a rehabilitation program, such as this program, your mornings will typically start with a healthy breakfast.

One of the best things about inpatient rehab is that you have access to nutritious food and beverages that help to expedite the detox process.

In addition to a healthy breakfast, you may attend an early morning support group meeting or therapy session. You might also participate in some kind of holistic practice, such as yoga or meditation.

In the Afternoon

After breakfast, you will likely attend a few different types of therapy sessions. This may include individual therapy, group therapy, or family therapy.

In the afternoon, you may also have some free time to participate in activities of your choosing, such as exercise, meditation, art therapy, journaling, or reading.

You’ll also have a healthy lunch sometime in the afternoon, too.

In the Evening

In the evening, you’ll have a healthy dinner. You may also attend another support group meeting.

In many rehab facilities, residents also have some time to themselves in the evening to relax and reflect on the events of the day.

What Else do You need to Know?

This is a standard day in the life of someone who’s staying in an inpatient drug rehab facility. Does it seem a little less scary now? Or, do you still have some questions about what to expect from rehab?

Here are some other pieces of information you might want to know regarding your stay in rehab:

The Rules

Every facility is a little different, but almost all of them feature the following rules:

  • No drugs or alcohol
  • No cellphone or computer usage (or very limited access to these devices)
  • No music, movies, or TV (to cut down on exposure to triggering lyrics and images)
  • No romantic relationships with staff members or other residents
  • You must attend all meetings and therapy sessions

In most facilities, there is also a rule that states you must remain in the facility at all times unless you’re accompanied by a staff member.

Activities Available

Some people assume that, when they’re in rehab, all they’ll do is go to therapy all day long. This definitely isn’t the case, though.

In rehab, you have access to a variety of different therapies, as well as activities like yoga, meditation, and exercise classes.

You may also be able to meet with career counselors and other professionals who can help you prepare for life after rehab.

How to “Graduate” 

Generally speaking, you “graduate” from rehab when you complete your stay without breaking any of the rules — especially the rule about abstaining from drugs and alcohol.

Remember that, while your recovery begins with rehab, it doesn’t end after a 30- or 60-day stint. Sobriety is a lifelong process, but rehab gives you a leg up and increases your chances of remaining sober.

Finding the Right Inpatient Facility

Hopefully, you’re now feeling a little motivated to seek treatment. In order to experience the benefits of an inpatient facility, though, you need to make sure you’re staying in the right place.

Listed below are some tips that will help you find the best rehab facility for your needs:

Look at the Location

First, consider the location of the facility. How close is it to your home? Is it close enough that friends or family members can come to visit you?

Consider Your Goals

Think about what you want to accomplish with rehab, too. Do you need to stay in a facility that specializes in a specific type of treatment or offers help to specific types of people?

Talk to a Specialist

If you’re not sure which rehab facility to stay in, reach out to a specialist and ask for their opinion. Your doctor may be able to give you a recommendation, or you can call the rehab facility you’re considering and ask to talk to a staff member. 

Consider the Therapy Options

Look for a rehab facility that provides a variety of therapy options. Cognitive behavioral therapy is available at most facilities. Others may also offer options like art therapy or music therapy. 

Think About the Staff

Consider the staff-to-resident ratio, too. Generally speaking, the lower the ratio, the better. This will increase your chances of having access to a specialist whenever you need them.

Consider the Amenities

Finally, think about the amenities, too.

Will you have access to a pool? Rec room? A sauna or spa?

These kinds of amenities aren’t essential, of course. But, they can make your stay at an inpatient rehab facility a lot more enjoyable. 

Learn More About Inpatient Drug Rehab

Now that you know more about what to expect from a typical day in a drug rehab facility, it’s time to take action and start looking for the right facility for you.

Keep these guidelines in mind so you can find the best facility to help you overcome your addiction and get sober.

Do you want to learn more about getting sober or about drug rehab? We’ve got lots of articles on our site that can provide you with the information you need.

Start by checking out this article on five things you need to know before going to rehab.

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