Substance abuse treatment is offered in a wide variety of distinct treatment settings with a variety of different treatment methods. For example, some substance abuse treatment can be performed 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 individual to stay in a hospital or residential facility during the entire course of treatment, which is particularly helpful in handling more serious cases of addiction. Inpatient and residential substance abuse treatment can be done on a short term or long term basis, depending on unique circumstances which can be different for each person. Most substance abuse treatment will focus on getting the individual physically rehabilitated, and then concentrate on underlying psychological and emotional issues which will help them avoid relapse in the future.

Drug rehab programs which are offered on an outpatient basis are readily available to addicted people who have circumstances which prevent them from being able to participate in an inpatient rehabilitation program. An outpatient drug rehab program provides many of the same services as an inpatient program, but allows for flexibility as opposed to an inpatient drug rehab program where the individual is required to stay and reside at the rehab program until treatment has been fully completed. Outpatient drug or alcohol rehab is also available for individuals who have completed residential or inpatient treatment but require a comprehensive aftercare program which will offer additional support and therapy to help them avoid relapse.

Persons with co-occurring mental and substance abuse disorders must address both issues in order to recover completely. Some people take drugs or alcohol to relieve symptoms of mental health disorders, and some individuals take drugs which then, in turn, causes symptoms which mimic mental health problems, such as anxiety and depression. Drug rehabilitation 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 individual. This has proven to be effective in keeping individuals with mental health issues off of drugs and mentally stable and healthy.

It is not uncommon for persons with HIV/AIDS to end up in a drug rehab program in search of help for severe 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 deserve effective rehabilitation just like any otherwise healthy addicted individual. Substance abuse rehabilitation facilities that accept and cater to persons with HIV/AIDS offer specialized care to address any health issues that may come up in the course of treatment. This way, any physical barriers to rehabilitation are resolved so that they can conquer their addiction once and for all.

When pregnant/postpartum women need drug or alcohol treatment there are a number of factors unique to their situation that should be addressed. This particular 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 often requires facilities that are both individualized and flexible in their recovery plan. While the length of stay may vary depending on the woman's specific needs it is understood that the longer a person participates in treatment the better their chance of lasting sobriety. Many programs for pregnant/postpartum women can run long-term for six months or more.

Rehabilitation from drug addiction is a process that can be difficult and in a lot ofways intimidating. This is why some women seeking recovery feel more comfortable in rehab centers designed specifically for women. Women who are addicted to drugs or alcohol oftenhave personal issues that are very different than their male counter parts. In a drug or alcohol rehab facility 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 ridicule.

Drug treatment programs made exclusively for men are popping up across the country. Although rehab programs that work with both men and women are still the standard for drug and alcohol rehabilitation, many facilities are creating 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. While these specialized types of rehabilitation programs may not be necessary for all recovering addicts, many men are selecting men-only addiction rehab centers. This treatment option is excellent for those who feel more comfortable with those of the same sex when discussing private and often difficult memories from the past. Recovering from addiction is a difficult 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.

Self payment drug and alcohol rehabilitation facilities are an outstanding alternative to other types of rehabilitation centers i.e. private medical insurance and state funded programs. People who are capable of attending 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 or alcohol rehab program. In order to learn more about self payment at a specific program, make contact with a drug or alcohol rehabilitation center and inquire as to their payment options. It is a good idea to contact a number of facilities so that you have an understanding of your choices regarding rehab options and payment methods.

Medicaid is a type of health insurance which is made available to individuals 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 treatment, and there are many drug rehab centers throughout the country which are covered through Medicaid. Most drug and alcohol treatment programs which are covered through Medicaid may only provide a limited treatment curriculum and may only supply such treatment on a short term basis, typically 30 days or less. People who have Medicaid should look for which programs cover the greatest amount of treatment for the most amount of time to acquire the full benefits of such a program.