How to Choose Among the Alcohol Rehab Facilities Available

Alcohol rehab facilities can vary in the methods they use to help the addict to recover. The level of severity of the drinking problem and the presence of any other substance abuse. The treatment selected should design a program to assist the drinker to attain long term sobriety based upon his drinking habits, medical needs, and personal preferences. If a problem with alcohol is suspected based upon the presence of certain symptoms, then it might be time to choose from one of the alcohol rehab facilities across the nation.

A facility which works with the person is more likely to succeed than one which does not. A close support network within the program is one of the hallmarks of effective alcohol rehab facilities. Other attributes include: medical care if needed, a professional intervention, cognitive behavioral therapy, early assessment and treatment, a strong social network, and ongoing care. One study, the COMBINE trial, has shown that a combination therapy of cognitive behavioral intervention and the medication naltrexone. The behavioral intervention helps the patient to relearn techniques for dealing with stress and drinking situations and the medication acts to decrease the number or cravings for and the amount consumed of alcohol. Some patients cannot use naltrexone, due to an additional substance abuse. Naltrexone interacts with opiates, and doctors will not offer it as treatment for any alcoholic with an accompanying drug problem. Discussing all possibilities with the head of the program will ensure that the patient gets the best care possible at his choice of the many alcohol rehab facilities.

Friends and family members are often the first to notice a problem with the alcoholic's drinking habits. Most problem drinkers deny that they have a problem at all, but when drinking gets in the way of other more enjoyable activities, duties at home and work are neglected, and relationships fall by the wayside, drinking has begun to impede upon the person's lifestyle. Family members need to keep several guidelines in mind when confronting their relative with their drinking habits and convincing him to go to one of the alcohol rehab facilities. Family members should avoid: preaching, nagging, getting overly emotional, arguing, or joining in with the drinker. They should address the problem calmly, join a support group for themselves, become informed about alcoholism, and remain patient. By being supportive, steady and standing firm in helping their loved one achieve long term, lasting sobriety, relapse of the problem drinking can be avoided.

Falling off the wagon is inevitable for many. Up to 90% of alcoholics will have at least one relapse, but with a strong support system both from the family and from one of the many alcohol rehab facilities, recovery is possible, and a life free of alcohol addiction and dependence is within reach.