What Does An Average Day In Rehab Look Like?

A typical day in rehab consists of specific treatment programs, various types of therapy, and constant care for the person struggling with alcohol or drug abuse. 

An average day at a substance abuse treatment facility varies, but you’ll likely establish a unique recovery process within a personalized treatment plan.

A Typical Day In An Addiction Treatment Program

Before entering an addiction center, you’ll need to be aware of the many options available to you. Your typical day in rehab will be different depending on if you choose an inpatient or outpatient program.

Inpatient Programs

If you participate in an inpatient program, you’ll stay at your desired treatment facility for a specified amount of time.

Choosing an inpatient program can be more expensive due to the cost of living at the treatment center. There will typically be a “lights out” policy in effect, meaning you’ll be on a strict daily schedule. 

By following certain rules and a specific schedule each day, inpatient treatment is structured and organized. Your inpatient rehab schedule may include holistic activities like yoga, relapse prevention classes, 12-step meetings, therapy sessions, and other services.  

If you’re experiencing severe withdrawal symptoms and you’re in need of detox, an inpatient program may begin with detox to stabilize your system. 

Outpatient Programs

Outpatient treatment consists of the patient primarily staying at home except for during the day when they will visit a rehab facility for scheduled treatment sessions.

Outpatient programs include intensive outpatient programs (IOPs) and partial hospitalization programs (PHPs). will be beneficial. A typical day in outpatient rehab includes scheduled hours where you visit the rehab center for individual or group therapy sessions.

Expect Therapy Sessions

Therapy is crucial for anyone suffering from drug or alcohol addiction. In drug rehab, expect a typical day to include some form of therapy to better your mental health and overall outlook.

Individual Therapy

Therapy is beneficial and can be tailored to your needs or your specific situation. For instance, during your time in a rehab center, you can participate in a variety of one-on-one therapy options like cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT). 

CBT is an important part of addiction treatment. This treatment process is a type of “talk therapy” that addiction treatment programs frequently use to treat patients. 

Individual therapy sessions are an excellent way to become more aware of yourself, your actions, and your substance use disorder. Group therapy can be useful as well, offering you new perspectives and helping you feel not so alone during your stay.

Group Therapy

In group therapy, you’ll be in a comfortable environment with others attending the rehab program. You’ll meet with those who may have similar addiction struggles and stories to discuss. 

Talking about your personal experiences in a group session can help you better understand how drug addiction works and teach you certain behaviors that can help your recovery. 

Family Therapy

In some instances, addiction recovery will require family therapy sessions for you and your loved ones to take part in together. This is especially needed for those dealing with long-term recovery. 

As you go through rehab and the detox process, it’s crucial to have a support group or some type of support system that you can count on. Knowing you have support can make all the difference in the world. 

Ultimately, however, addiction recovery comes down to you. While your family members and friends can be there for you, you must ultimately choose recovery for yourself. 

Other Aspects Of A Typical Day In Drug Rehab

In addition to therapy, some of the other aspects of daily life in a rehab center may include other stress-free activities such as: 

• journaling
• art therapy
• meditation/prayer
• yoga
• exercise/outdoor activities
• diet/nutritional guidance

Many treatment centers also allot a bit of free time in your schedule as well. Recovery centers are likely to have rec rooms or other common areas where you’ll have time to decompress, relax, and connect with other peers in the program.

To learn more about a typical day at one of our treatment centers, please contact an Ark Behavioral Health specialist today.