Detoxification is generally the first step in getting off drugs. It allows an individual to be in a supervised setting while they go through withdrawal symptoms for drugs and/or alcohol. There are diverse types of detoxification. Theyrange from drug-free to medically supervised. A typical mistake that a lot of addicts make is to feel that detox is sufficient to kick their habit. This is seldom the case. All detox does is get a person through the withdrawal when they stop using. It is often recommended that detox be followed up with some type of treatment plan to learn the root of why someone was using drugs in the first place.

Persons with co-occurring mental and substance abuse disorders must handle both issues in order to recover completely. Some individuals take drugs or alcohol to alleviate symptoms of mental health problems, and some people take drugs which then, in turn, creates symptoms which are identical to mental health issues, such as anxiety and depression. Addiction treatment professionals know how to differentiate between the two, and can work with clients to appropriately 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 individuals with mental health problems off of drugs and mentally stable and happy.

It is not uncommon for persons with HIV/AIDS to end up in a substance abuse treatment facility receiving help for serious addiction problems. Often people who abuse drugs and alcohol are predisposed to such diseases because of certain circumstances which afflict the drug culture such as sharing dirty syringes to inject drugs or becoming involved in risky sexual behavior because of lowered sexual inhibitions caused by drug use. Persons with HIV/AIDS should have effective treatment just like any otherwise healthy addicted individual. Drug treatment centers that accept and cater to persons with HIV/AIDS provide specialized care to address any health issues that may come up in the course of treatment. This way, any physical barriers to rehabilitation are alleviated so that they can overcome their addiction and maintain a drug-free lifestyle.

Gays and Lesbians can sometimes have unique treatment needs when receiving substance abuse treatment. A specialized curriculum and treatment atmosphere which is conducive to the needs of gays and lesbians is available at certain drug and alcohol rehabilitation programs around the country which understand the unique needs and challenges which gays and lesbians will encounter during treatment. 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 setting which doesn't judge them or alienate them due to their sexual preference.

Whether it is evident or not, seniors and older adults comprise a significant percentage of individuals in the United States who struggle with drug and/or alcohol abuse and addiction. As the baby boomer generation ages, this will become an even bigger problem with an even bigger need for drug and alcohol rehabilitation centers which are prepared to treat seniors and older adults who are in need of treatment for addiction problems. Seniors and older adults are faced with many physical challenges as a result of their age, which can affect treatment outcome if not addressed concurrently. It is beneficial for seniors and older adults to find rehabilitation before any long term consequences come about.

Rehabilitation from drug addiction is a process that can be difficult and in manyways intimidating. This is why some women seeking help with addiction feel more comfortable in treatment facilities designed specifically for women. Women who are addicted to drugs or alcohol typicallyhave personal issues that are much different than that of males. In a drug or alcohol treatment facility where all the clients are women, the recovering addict will feel more relaxed and will be able to work through 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 work through in the company of other women without fear of judgment or ridicule.

Drug rehabilitation facilities designed solely for men are emerging across the nation. While rehab programs that treat both men and women are still the standard for drug rehabilitation, many facilities are creating programs designed to help a specific target group. These centers are able to focus on what their client's particular needs are in a way that standard programs are not. While these specialized types of rehabilitation programs may not be necessary for all recovering addicts, many men are selecting men-only addiction rehab facilities. This recovery option is ideally suited for those who feel more comfortable with those of the same sex when sharing private and often difficult memories from the past. Addiction recovery is a challenging process for every addict and finding comfort among one's peer group is a very good way of receiving the support needed to make the process that much more bearable and successful.

Self payment drug treatment facilities are an outstanding alternative to other types of treatment facilities 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 substance abuse rehabilitation program. To learn more about self payment at a specific program, contact a drug treatment facility and inquire as to their payment options. It is a good idea to contact several programs so that you have an understanding of your choices regarding rehab options and payment methods.

When an individual is addicted to drugs or alcohol and is looking for help, many effective drug treatment facilities accept private health insurance. Whereas some outpatient and short term programs accept private health insurance, far more effective substance abuse rehab programs which offer an inpatient or residential stay for at least 90 days are also an available option. These programs which accept private health insurance can vary in terms of treatment curriculum, but those people who are covered by private health insurance are fortunate enough to have financial assistance when it comes to paying for a drug or alcohol rehabilitation program. For additional information, consult with a treatment professional at a substance abuse rehab facility in your area to find out which programs your private health insurance will cover.