Numerous factors come into play when selecting a recovery home, outpatient rehabilitation clinic, or any service for an individual grappling with substance abuse. While I may not be an expert in recovery or a behavioral health professional, I am a mother who has navigated various recovery paths to support my son, Marcus, over the course of more than a decade. Through my trials, disappointments, occasional successes, and, sadly, ultimate loss, I’ve gained insights into accessing resources and seeking support for my child. Here are some of the resources that stood out to me during Marcus’ fight for sobriety.
Finding a rehabilitation program that would admit someone without a 72-hour detox period proved challenging. Besides the prerequisite of 72 hours of drug-free status, most programs also demanded a physical examination. While I acknowledge the importance of ensuring the safety of all patients, dealing with the series of appointments added an unexpected challenge. The moment my son finally agreed to seek treatment was a cause for celebration. However, each time I heard, “No, he’ll have to wait,” it brought tears to my eyes. I wanted to cry out, “He might not want help in 72 hours.” Every closed door left me walking away in tears, fearful of what might happen next. There were instances where we lost Marcus’s attention during the 72-hour wait, and there were times we successfully detoxed him and secured services. Having foreknowledge about the detox requirement would have spared me additional stress and disappointment.
The Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) hotline is an excellent resource to assist in the decision-making process. Support is available at 1-800-662-4357 twenty-four hours a day, seven days a week. The SAMHSA team is readily available to provide referrals and explanations of services free of cost. This resource is also helpful when looking at the specific factors that are important to each person needing recovery. If you were looking for a program with services specific to gender or age groups, the representatives are well versed in the specifics of each facility and are helpful in narrowing the information down for callers. Here is a little information about a few programs that have really stood out to me. There is enough stress when battling addiction, any extra help or information goes a long way. I know it did for me when I was the one seeking assistance.
Treatment Types
Accessing addiction treatment services, especially for individuals who may not have insurance coverage or the financial means to afford for-profit programs is a common problem. The availability and accessibility of addiction treatment can be a significant barrier for many people.
It’s important for individuals seeking treatment options to explore a variety of resources and find a program that aligns with their specific needs and financial situation. There are different types of treatment facilities and programs, including nonprofit organizations, government-funded programs, and community-based services, which may offer more affordable or sliding-scale payment options. For those facing financial constraints, it could be beneficial to research and inquire about publicly funded or nonprofit treatment centers in their area. Additionally, some programs may offer scholarships, grants, or sliding-scale fees based on an individual’s income. These are all great funding and program types to mention when calling SAMHSA and seeking connection to rehabilitation programs.
It’s crucial to have open and honest communication with treatment providers to discuss financial concerns and explore available options. Seeking support from local community health organizations, social services, or addiction helplines can also provide valuable information on affordable treatment resources. In my commitment to assist my son, we were directed to a faith-based program called The Joshua House. In this program, he collaborated with fellow participants to earn his treatment. Situated in Marysville, CA, The Joshua House imparted values such as work ethic, community, responsibility, and faith through collective efforts within the program. Programs similar to this one are being operated by churches throughout the country. If your loved one, like my son, lacks health insurance, delving deeper into non-profit organizations could be beneficial.
