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

Drug or alcohol rehab programs which are offered on an outpatient basis are available to addicted people who have circumstances which prevent them from being able to participate in an inpatient rehabilitation facility. An outpatient substance abuse treatment facility provides many of the same services as an inpatient program, but allows for flexibility as opposed to an inpatient drug rehabilitation program where the person is expected to stay and reside at the treatment center until the treatment process has been fully completed. Outpatient drug rehab is also available for individuals who have already gone through residential or inpatient treatment but require a thorough aftercare and relapse prevention program which will provide further support and therapy to help them avoid relapse.

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 relieve symptoms of mental health complications, and some people take drugs which then, in turn, causes symptoms which mimic 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 problems 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 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 atmosphere which is conducive to the needs of gays and lesbians is available at certain drug rehab programs across the nation which understand the unique needs and challenges which gays and lesbians will experience during recovery. Gay and lesbians can achieve full rehabilitation and recovery just like any other individual in treatment, however it can be helpful for gays and lesbians to be in a supportive environment which doesn't judge them or segregate them because of their sexual preference.

Whether it is apparent 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 facilities 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 have an impact on treatment outcome if not addressed concurrently. It is beneficial for seniors and older adults to seek rehabilitation before any long term consequences occur.

Recovery from drug addiction is a process that can be challenging 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 their male counter parts. In a drug or alcohol rehabilitation program where all the clients are women, the recovering addict will feel more at ease and will be able to work through her personal conflicts that led to her drug abuse and addiction problems. Statistics show that up to seventy percent of women with addiction problems report having some type of sexual or physical abuse in their past. These delicate issues are easier to address in the company of other women without fear of judgment or retaliation.

Drug and alcohol rehabilitation centers created exclusively for men are popping up across the nation. Although programs that work with both men and women continue to be the standard for drug and alcohol rehabilitation, many facilities are providing programs designed to help a specific target group. These facilities are able to focus on what their client's personal 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 deciding on men-only drug and alcohol treatment centers. This recovery option is ideally suited for those who feel more comfortable with those of the same sex when sharing private and often difficult issues from the past. Recovering from addiction is a challenging process for every addict and finding comfort among one's peer group is a great way of receiving the support needed to make the process that much more endurable.

Criminal justice clients often need drug rehabilitation due to problems with addiction. Due to the nature of the criminal justice system, there are distinct steps and guidelines that must be performed in order to be admitted into a criminal justice drug or alcohol treatment program or recovery program. The first step is to determine the criminal justice clients eligibility. This step is completed by a panel of officials who determine how much and what type of drug is necessary. Often, the criminal justice clients obtain their drug rehabilitation while they are incarcerated. For the best possible results, they are encouraged, if not strictly directed, to continue their recovery process once they leave jail and enroll in a sober living home or a long-term residential transitional living program.

There are more and more Spanish speaking clients walking into substance abuse rehabilitation programs every day needing help. Because Spanish is such a common language in this country, many drug treatment programs are prepared to deliver treatment to Spanish speaking people. Additionally, many treatment professionals make it a point to learn the language so as to be able to provide the treatment and care needed for Spanish speaking individuals.

Medicaid is a type of health insurance which is accessible to people in certain low-income tax brackets. Eligibility for Medicaid depends greatly on income and other factors including whether or not the person has dependents and if they receive any other assistance. Medicaid may even cover the costs associated with drug or alcohol treatment, and there are a lot of drug treatment programs throughout the country which are covered through Medicaid. Many drug and alcohol rehabilitation facilities which are covered through Medicaid may only deliver a limited treatment curriculum and may only provide such treatment on a short term basis, usually 30 days or less. Individuals who have Medicaid should explore which programs cover the greatest amount of treatment for the most amount of time to acquire the full benefits of such a program.