Substance abuse treatment takes place in a wide variety 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 participate in 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 especially helpful 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 individual. Most substance abuse treatment will concentrate 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 rehab services which are offered on an outpatient basis are readily available to addicted people who have circumstances which prevent them from being able to take part in an inpatient rehab facility. An outpatient drug treatment program offers many of the same services as an inpatient program, but allows for flexibility as opposed to an inpatient drug rehabilitation facility where the person is required to stay and reside at the rehab center until the treatment process has been fully completed. Outpatient drug treatment is also offered for those who have completed residential or inpatient treatment but require a thorough aftercare and relapse prevention program which will offer additional support and treatment to help them avoid relapse.

Enrolling into a residential long-term treatment facility (more than 30 days) is the best way ofaddressing a severe substance abuse problem. This type of substance abuse rehabilitation program is more intensive than others that only last a few weeks or those where the client is free to come and go as they please. Choosing a residential long-term rehab program (more than 30 days) means that you as the client will live at the rehabilitation facility around the clock while you are in recovery. While offering a more relaxed home-like atmosphere the individual has access to treatment professionals at all times. Long term drug or alcohol rehabilitation programs are a perfect choice for those who have a long history of addiction or who have had other unsuccessful attempts at recovery in the past.

Drug and alcohol treatment programs designed solely for men are emerging across the nation. While rehab programs that work with both men and women are still the standard for drug and alcohol rehabilitation, many rehab facilities are developing programs intended to help a specific target group. These centers are able to focus on what their client's individual needs are in a way that standard facilities cannot provide. While these specialized types of rehabilitation programs may not be needed for all recovering addicts, many men are selecting men-only drug and alcohol treatment centers. This treatment option is best 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 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.