Substance abuse treatment is offered in a wide range of different treatment settings with a variety of different treatment approaches. For example, some substance abuse treatment can be carried out on an outpatient basis, where the person will typically attend treatment during the day but is allowed to return home daily. Other substance abuse treatment requires the individual to stay in a hospital or residential facility during the entire course of treatment, which is particularly beneficial in resolving more severe cases of addiction. Inpatient and residential substance abuse treatment can be done on a short term or long term basis, depending on different circumstances which can be different for each person. Most substance abuse treatment will concentrate on getting the person physically rehabilitated, and then focus on the root psychological and emotional issues.

Enrolling into a residential long-term treatment program (more than 30 days) is an effective way ofaddressing a serious substance abuse problem. This type of drug treatment facility is more comprehensive than others that only last a few weeks or those where the person in recovery is free to come and go as they please. Attending a residential long-term rehab program (more than 30 days) means that you as the client will live at the treatment facility around the clock while you are in recovery. While providing a more relaxed home-like atmosphere the individual has access to counselors and staff at all times. Long term drug treatment centers are an excellent choice for those who have a long history of substance abuse or who have had other unsuccessful attempts at recovery in the past.

Persons with co-occurring mental and substance abuse disorders must handle both issues if there is any hope for them to recover completely. Some people take drugs or alcohol to alleviate symptoms of mental health disorders, and some people take drugs which then, in turn, brings about symptoms which are identical to mental health disorders, such as depression and anxiety. Drug treatment professionals know how to distinguish between the two, and can work with clients to properly treat real mental health disorders in tandem with any other substance abuse treatment that is done with the person. This has proven to be effective in keeping people with mental health disorders off of drugs and mentally stable and productive.

Gays and Lesbians can sometimes have unique treatment needs when receiving substance abuse treatment. A specialized curriculum and treatment setting which is conducive to the needs of gays and lesbians is offered at certain drug rehab facilities around the country which understand the unique needs and challenges which gays and lesbians will encounter during recovery. Gay and lesbians can achieve full rehabilitation and recovery just like any other person in treatment, however it can be beneficial for gays and lesbians to be in a supportive atmosphere which doesn't judge them or segregate them because of their sexual preference.

When pregnant/postpartum women need substance abuse treatment there are several issues unique to their situation that should be addressed. This distinct group of addicted persons faces not only the personal shame of their addiction but also the reality of what their unhealthy choices may have caused their children. Recovery for pregnant/postpartum women typically requires facilities that are both individualized and flexible in their recovery plan. While the program duration may vary depending on the woman's specific needs it is recognized that the longer a person stays in treatment the better their chance of a successful recovery. Many programs for pregnant/postpartum women run six to nine months on average.

Recovery from drug or alcohol addiction is a process that can be challenging and in a lot ofways intimidating. This is why some women seeking help with addiction feel more comfortable in treatment centers designed specifically for women. Women who are addicted to drugs or alcohol typicallyhave personal issues that are considerably different than that of males. In a drug rehabilitation center where all the clients are women, the recovering addict will feel more relaxed and will be able to share her personal issues that led to her drug abuse and addiction problems. Statistics show that up to seventy percent of drug abusing women report having some type of sexual or physical abuse in their past. These sensitive issues are easier to address in the company of other women without fear of judgment or retaliation.

Self payment drug rehab centers are a great alternative to other types of rehab programs i.e. private medical insurance and state funded programs. People who are able to attend self payment programs pay for their entire rehabilitation process out of pocket. Keep in mind though, this does not mean that they will not have access to financial assistance if needed. It just means that self payment is their primary method of covering the cost of their drug rehabilitation program. In order to learn more about self payment programs, make contact with a drug treatment center and inquire as to their payment options. It is beneficial to contact a number of facilities so that you have an understanding of your choices regarding rehab options and payment methods.

Drug addiction and alcoholism affects many older Americans and seniors, and this issue continues to grow as each year passes. Seniors who are covered by Medicare, an insurance program funded through the federal government for Americans in this age bracket, can use their Medicare benefits to receive treatment services for substance abuse at a wide variety of substance abuse rehabilitation centers around the country. Medicare covers both inpatient and outpatient treatment programs, and seniors who are in need of help can consult with their primary care physician to choose a rehab program covered by Medicare which would fit his or her particular needs.