Substance abuse treatment takes place in a wide range of different treatment settings with a variety of different treatment methods. For example, some substance abuse treatment can be carried out on an outpatient basis, where the person will typically receive treatment during the day but is allowed to return home daily. Other substance abuse treatment requires the person to stay in a hospital or residential facility during the entire course of treatment, which is particularly beneficial in handling 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 focus on getting the person physically rehabilitated, and then concentrate on the root psychological and emotional issues which will help them avoid relapse in the future.

Drug or alcohol rehabilitation services which are delivered on an outpatient basis are readily available to addicted individuals who have circumstances which prevent them from being able to participate in an inpatient rehabilitation facility. An outpatient substance abuse rehabilitation center offers many of the same services as an inpatient program, but allows for flexibility as opposed to an inpatient drug treatment program where the individual is expected to stay and reside at the treatment facility until treatment is complete. Outpatient drug rehab is also available for individuals who have completed residential or inpatient treatment but require a comprehensive aftercare and relapse prevention program which will provide additional support and treatment to help them remain clean and sober.

Persons with co-occurring mental and substance abuse disorders must address both issues if there is any hope for them to recover completely. Some people take drugs to alleviate symptoms of mental health problems, and some people take drugs which then, in turn, brings about symptoms which mimic mental health disorders, such as depression and anxiety. Addiction treatment professionals know how to differentiate between the two, and can work with clients to correctly treat real mental health conditions 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 alcohol and mentally stable and productive.

Gays and Lesbians can sometimes have distinctive treatment needs when receiving substance abuse treatment. A specialized curriculum and treatment atmosphere which is conducive to the needs of gays and lesbians is offered at certain drug rehabilitation facilities across the nation which recognize 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 helpful for gays and lesbians to be in a supportive environment which doesn't judge them or alienate them because of their sexual preference.

Whether it is apparent or not, seniors and older adults encompass 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 treatment programs which are prepared to treat seniors and older adults who are in need of rehabilitation for addiction problems. Seniors and older adults are faced with many physical challenges as a result of their age, which can have an impact on treatment outcome if not addressed concurrently. It is beneficial for seniors and older adults to seek treatment before any long term consequences arise.

Rehabilitation from drug or alcohol addiction is a process that can be challenging and in manyways intimidating. This is why some women seeking recovery feel more comfortable in rehab programs created specifically for women. Women who are addicted to drugs or alcohol oftenhave personal issues that are considerably different than their male counter parts. In a drug treatment center where all the clients are women, the recovering addict will feel more relaxed and will be able to work through her personal conflicts that led to her substance 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 delicate issues are easier to work through in the company of other women without fear of judgment or retaliation.

Drug rehab programs designed specifically for men are popping up across the country. Although programs that work with both men and women are still the standard for drug and alcohol rehabilitation, many rehab facilities are providing programs designed to help a specific target group. These facilities are able to focus on what their client's particular needs are in a way that standard programs are not. Although these specialized types of rehabilitation programs are not needed for all recovering addicts, many men are choosing men-only addiction treatment centers. This rehabilitation option is excellent for those who feel more comfortable with those of the same sex when sharing private and often difficult issues from the past. Addiction recovery is a difficult process for every addict and finding comfort among one's peer group is a good way of getting the support needed to make the process that much more endurable.

Self payment drug and alcohol treatment facilities are a great alternative to other types of rehabilitation facilities i.e. private medical insurance and state funded programs. Individuals who are capable of attending self payment programs pay for their entire rehab 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 rehab program. In order to learn more about self payment at a specific program, make contact with a substance abuse treatment facility and inquire as to their payment options. It is beneficial to contact several facilities so that you have an understanding of your choices with regards to treatment options and payment methods.