Category: Addiction Treatment

As our understanding of addiction grows, so do the available treatment options. Few rehab facilities these days follow a one-size-fits-all approach to drug and alcohol addiction treatment: even publicly funded centres on a budget make some allowance for differing needs and circumstances.

There is also an almost universal agreement that addiction treatment is needed in the first place. We have moved on from the days when people with addictions went through detox and were sent home with instructions to never use the substance again.

Similarly, we are no longer stuck on the idea of talk therapy being the only mode of addiction treatment. Rehab centres typically use a multifaceted approach that combines therapy, life coaching, yoga, creative pursuits, exercise and more. The more customizable an addiction treatment program is, the better the long-term outcomes are.

But are there any commonalities? In this world of individually tailored addiction treatment plans, are there any elements that should be applied to everyone?

A Universal Treatment Goal

No matter who you are or what circumstances led to your addiction, there is one singular goal of participating in a drug and alcohol rehab program: to address the root causes of the addiction and develop the skills and tools to cope with the challenges of life without turning to substance use.

This goal looks different for everyone. People start using drugs and alcohol for all kinds of reasons, such as spousal abuse, trauma from serving in the military, schoolyard bullying, or unrelenting pressure to succeed in a corporate environment.

Delving into these issues is key to long-term recovery, and in most cases, this involves therapy.

Defining Therapy

For most people, the word “therapy” conjures up a mental picture of a patient sitting in an office talking to a therapist. But therapy can take many forms. In fact, Britannica (famed for the encyclopedia) defines psychotherapy as “any form of treatment for psychological, emotional, or behaviour disorders in which a trained person establishes a relationship with one or several patients for the purpose of modifying or removing existing symptoms and promoting personality growth”.

By this definition, many things can qualify as “therapy”, so individuals who are not willing or able to relive their traumas by verbalizing them can heal in ways that are more suited to them.

Individual Therapy

Talk therapy is an old favourite, and it is highly effective for many people. There are several subclasses of talk therapy, such as cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) and dialectical behaviour therapy (DBT). Many people find that they can only work through their traumas if they talk about them, and individual talk therapy provides a safe, confidential environment for doing that.

Group Therapy

Humans instinctively gravitate to other humans who have common experiences, interests, or challenges. We feel validated when we are among people who “get it”, who have lived through some of the same things we have. Group therapy allows people with addictions to share their experiences, talk about what they have learned, and support one another through the process of recovery.

Family Therapy

Some addictions arise from situations of conflict with loved ones. All people involved – the person with the addiction and their close friends and family members – may benefit from family therapy. The goal is to improve communication and conflict resolution skills.

Creative Therapies

Therapy using art, music, and dance can be an effective supplement to talk therapy, or it can be used as the primary form of therapy for those who are not candidates for talk therapy. Creativity is a great way for individuals to express themselves and communicate difficult emotions. These forms of therapy are relatively recent additions to addiction treatment.

Traditional Healing Practices

No discussion about addiction treatment is complete without a look at the traditional healing methods used in some cultures. It is important that addiction treatment acknowledge and respect the individual’s cultural and spiritual needs. Traditions like sweat lodge ceremonies, storytelling, land-based activities, and traditional teachings should be available to people from Indigenous communities.

Therapy Comes In Many Forms

We need to overturn the idea that “therapy” consists of lying on a couch talking to a relative stranger. The therapies described above are just a small part of an ever-growing, ever-evolving list. The key is to determine what kind of therapy works for you. Sometimes it will be just done, but more commonly, a combination of therapeutic modalities will be most effective.

It is important to remember that while we usually associate therapy with mental health, it can also apply to physical health. If you suffer from an addiction to painkillers, you may need an alternative means of managing the pain for which the painkillers were prescribed, such as a different medication, physiotherapy, or both. If your addiction is paired with an eating disorder, you may benefit from therapy that incorporates exercise and nutrition coaching.

The Importance Of Flexibility

As you move through your addiction recovery, you will change and grow. As this happens, the combination of therapies that worked for you in the beginning may need to be adjusted. A good addiction treatment plan allows for this. There should be assessments at regular intervals, during which your progress is monitored and your treatment altered as needed.

Therapy After Rehab

Addiction recovery is an ongoing process that continues long after you have left your rehab facility. As part of your discharge from rehab, you should be referred to therapists and treatment providers in your area who can help you continue the work you have started. With technological advances, many of these therapies can be conducted online.

Getting Started With Addiction Treatment

Talking about the different kinds of therapy is all well and good, but how do you get started in a facility that provides access to all of this? Fortunately, you do not have to look far. Thousand Islands Rehab Centre is located in a beautiful setting just two hours out of Toronto. We will put together a customized addiction treatment program that considers your unique needs and circumstances, and that incorporate the therapeutic methods that are right for you. Your recovery journey can start right now with a single phone call.

Substance abuse disorder is a complex condition that results in uncontrolled use of a substance despite harmful consequences. People with this condition have an intense focus on using a particular substance such as alcohol, tobacco, or illicit drugs, to the point where the person’s ability to function in day-to-day life becomes impaired. Individuals keep using the substance, even when they know it is causing problems.

People with substance abuse and behavioural addictions may be aware of their problem yet unable to stop even if they want to. The addiction can cause physical and psychological issues and interpersonal problems with family members, friends, and coworkers. Alcohol and drug use is one of the leading causes of preventable illnesses and premature deaths nationwide.

If someone has an addiction, they need help. Many people with substance abuse disorder don’t realize that they have a problem, or they are too afraid to reach out. It is often up to close friends and family members to seek out treatment options for their loved one. Drug and alcohol rehab centres are an excellent place to start, but the cost of treatment is frequently seen as a barrier. There are many treatment facilities in the Toronto area, and the price varies depending on who runs the facility and what services are offered.

Addiction Treatment

Substance use has increased relative to pre-pandemic times, but a smaller percentage of people are getting the help they need. Addiction can be fatal, so those impacted by it need to seek treatment. The earlier addiction treatment is initiated, the better the outcomes are.

The first step is to contact a medical professional for assistance. They will help develop a treatment plan that will include a variety of services. The treatments recommended will depend on several factors, such as the severity of the addiction. Interventions range from at-home detox with check-in visits to your doctor, to inpatient rehab lasting for several weeks.

Rehab centres provide many services, such as education, group and individual counseling, and life coaching. Inpatient rehab is generally accepted as the most effective form of addiction treatment, although well-structured outpatient programs can work for some individuals.

In Canada, there are options for both government-funded and private rehab. Publicly funded services vary by province, and your out-of-pocket cost of private rehab depends on the facility and the coverage offered by your insurance company.

Publicly Funded Rehab

The key advantage of this type of addiction treatment is that it is free in Ontario for Canadian citizens and residents. Government-funded facilities such as the Centre for Addiction and Mental Health (CAMH) offer many services to people with addictions. These include medical detox, therapy, group counselling, and follow-up after completion of the rehab program. The addiction treatment program typically lasts for about 30 days.

There are some disadvantages of government-run drug and alcohol rehab. The waiting period can be up to six months, and the average staff to patient ratio is 10:1 – significantly higher than most private facilities. Aftercare is much shorter as well – usually about three months, compared with private aftercare, which can last longer than one year. There is also no re-entry after a relapse in most cases, and family support is limited.

Privately Funded Rehab

Getting addiction treatment at a private centre will require the patient to cover the cost either alone or through their insurance company. Many facilities and treatment providers offer financing or income-based pricing in a quest to make treatment financially accessible to more people. Although the price of private rehab seems high, weighing it against the cost of addiction may make it viable.

Wait times for private treatment are significantly shorter than those for public centres. Private addiction treatment facilities can typically facilitate admission immediately or within days.

There are also more options when it comes to treatment. You can sign up for a longer program, with a much better staff to patient ratio at an average of 3:1. Other advantages are the longer and more comprehensive aftercare programs, extensive support for loved ones, and the fact that the patient can return to rehab in the event of a relapse.

Private drug and alcohol rehab centres also have more resources at their disposal. Clients can expect more individual sessions and group treatment with fewer participants. There is a wider variety of therapeutic modalities, more amenities, and more choice when it comes to recreational options. The services and amenities vary from one centre to the next.

Breakdown of Fees

There are several drug and alcohol rehab centres in the Toronto area, and they vary significantly in terms of what services they offer. Some offer a wide range of therapy options and recreational activities, and some are more basic. The cost for a private room in a facility with a spa and golf course will be higher than that of a semi-private room in a centre that offers nature walks.

The price tag of your stay in rehab covers the cost of all services, amenities, and recreational options offered at the facility. If you are shopping around, be sure to ask for a detailed list of services from the rehab centres you approach.

Medical detox

Medical detox allows the patient to stop using the substance they are addicted to with medical support. If an individual suddenly stops taking a drug, they may suffer withdrawal symptoms that range from uncomfortable to dangerous. During medical detox, the patient is supervised closely throughout this process, and withdrawal symptoms are managed as they arise, sometimes with the help of medications. Medical detox can be an expensive part of rehab, but anyone attempting withdrawal at home should be aware that emergency medical services are available whenever they are needed through the provincial health care plan.

Inpatient Rehab

All elements of this type of drug and alcohol rehab take place at the rehab facility. Patients temporarily live at the centre, where they have 24/7 access to support. This is the safest and most effective way to quit using the substance and overcome the addiction. A patient’s stay in rehab usually ranges from 30 days to several months. If the facility offers medical detox, this will be included in the fee.

Outpatient Rehab

For mild to moderate addictions, patients can enter an outpatient rehab program, where they continue to live at home and attend appointments with doctors and other addiction professionals. Some patients transition to outpatient programs when they are discharged from their inpatient rehab facilities. The fees for outpatient rehab depend on how severe the addiction is and what is included in the treatment plan.

Medication

Medications may be used to manage withdrawal and some mental health conditions, like anxiety. The medications used may be a significant factor in the cost. Although prescription medications are not covered by the provincial health plan for most people, the majority of insurance plans include a prescription drug allowance.

Getting Help

If you are living with an addiction, don’t be afraid to ask for help. Thousand Islands Rehab Centre is a full-service drug and alcohol addiction treatment facility just a two-hour drive from Toronto. You do not have to try to overcome your addiction by yourself. We are here to help you safely withdraw from the substance you have been using, and help you gain the skills and tools to lead a happy, productive life free from addiction.

Whether it is for a family member or yourself, call us today. Substance abuse disorder can be fatal, but it is very treatable, especially if you seek help early.

There is a common misconception that marijuana is not addictive, and that therefore, marijuana addiction treatment is not necessary. The reality, however, is that regular use of marijuana can lead to addiction, especially in people who start using it during or before early adolescence.

Several factors play into the addictive nature of marijuana. One of these is the fact that it is easier than ever before to chemically enhance cannabis. This results in marijuana that in some cases is up to 200 times stronger than the weed from days gone by. An increasing body of research is showing that the effects of marijuana are amplified in young people whose brains are still growing and changing.

Another factor to consider is that marijuana is frequently used in conjunction with other substances, such as alcohol, heroin, or Ecstasy. This can create a dependency not on one substance, but on a combination.

The good news is that marijuana use disorders are highly treatable. In this article, we will talk about different ways in which you can recover, and the pros and cons of each.

Detox

The first step in any addiction treatment program is getting the substance out of your system in a way that is safe. Marijuana withdrawal is generally safe and does not require medically supervised detox. However, if you have been using marijuana with another substance, such as alcohol, you need to be more careful. Some substances can produce withdrawal symptoms that are potentially harmful, and your safest option is to check into a detox facility where medical professionals can deal with withdrawal symptoms as they arise.

Inpatient Marijuana Addiction Treatment

Inpatient rehab is generally the most effective way to treat most substance use disorders, including marijuana addiction. During your treatment, you will be on-site at the treatment facility 24/7 for several weeks. You will follow a schedule that is laid out in your treatment plan, and you will have everything you need to get you through your early recovery. Meals and accommodation are provided, all of your therapy and medical appointments are right there, and a variety of recreational options will be provided for your down-time.

Advantages

The biggest advantage of inpatient marijuana addiction treatment is that you can put yourself at a distance from all of the challenges of the real world, which allows you to focus on your recovery without distraction. You don’t have to worry about your troubled relationships, your toxic work environment, or making sure you pay the bills on time. Your only job is to focus on your rehab.

Other advantages include the following:

• You don’t have access to marijuana, or to the real-world triggers for using it
• You are living among people who have their own journeys, but understand the challenges of addiction
• You have access to physical and mental health support whenever you need it
• You will have a set schedule to follow, and this can benefit those in need of structure
• All of your addiction treatment sessions are right there, which sets you up for early success

Disadvantages

One of the biggest barriers to inpatient rehab for many people is the expense. Marijuana addiction treatment in a private inpatient facility will set you back several thousand dollars a month. While this may seem a lot, it is important to remember that it includes everything: accommodation, meals, all therapy sessions, and some recreational options. In addition, you may be able to claim some or all of the cost from your medical insurance company or take advantage of financing plans.

Money is not the only potential problem, though. Not everyone is in a position of being able to step out of their lives for weeks at a time. Some people have to show up at work, bring in an income, and manage the home. You may not have a trusted person who can take care of children or pets for a few weeks, and mortgages and bills don’t just go away.

The transition back to the real world can also be a challenge. While it’s highly beneficial to leave your problems behind while you go to rehab, those same problems may still be there when you get out. Without proper planning, returning to your life can be difficult.

Outpatient Marijuana Addiction Treatment

The challenges of inpatient rehab shouldn’t stop you from getting help, though, and there are some excellent outpatient programs available for people with marijuana use disorders. With this kind of treatment, you continue with your daily life while attending treatment sessions at the appropriate intervals. If you have high motivation to recover and a solid support system of friends and family members, you can achieve great success with an outpatient program.

Advantages

From a practical standpoint, outpatient rehab is more manageable for many people than inpatient rehab. Here are some of the advantages:

• It costs less than inpatient rehab
• You continue to live at home and participate in your usual daily activities
• You can practice the tools and skills you learn in the real world immediately
• You may be able to taper off your sessions gradually, unlike inpatient rehab which has a definite end date
• As challenges arise in your life, you can bring them to your treatment sessions and get guidance on dealing with them

Disadvantages

Outpatient rehab is logistically easier than inpatient rehab, but it does not have the same effectiveness. Some disadvantages of this kind of marijuana addiction treatment are as follows:

• If you are not highly motivated to recover, you may find it easy to bail on your sessions
• The stresses and challenges of your everyday life may be a distraction to your recovery
• If you start to experience cravings, you can access marijuana easily
• If your personal relationships are troubled, this can indicate a weak support system, and this makes outpatient recovery more difficult

A Compassionate Approach To Treating Marijuana Use Disorders

All human beings are unique, and no two addiction stories are alike. No matter what led you to addiction and what your circumstances are, Thousand Islands Rehab Centre can provide you with a personalized marijuana addiction treatment program that addresses your specific needs. We follow a holistic approach that recognizes you not as a “drug addict”, but as a person with a debilitating condition and, above all, the potential to heal and lead a full and happy life. For more information, contact us today.

Getting you or your loved one to go to a rehab center can be a huge decision. It requires you to consider factors like the cost of drug rehab. When it comes to getting treatment for drug addiction, the term rehab can be a vague one.

Firstly, there are various types of rehab each with its own cost and pricing model. For example, you can join a free support group in your community. In the same vein, you can decide to go attend a luxurious rehab centre that offers a higher quality of addiction treatment.

Asides from these two, there are other rehab options that we will further discuss in this article. These rehab programs have various timelines which can also impact the cost of drug rehab.

Depending on the severity of your addiction, an expert may recommend a treatment option for you. This can also impact the pricing for drug rehab hence the emphasis on going to a quality rehab centre. The quality of service you get plays a huge role in how effective the treatment will be.

If you’re asking to know “how much should I pay for drug rehab?” Well, there isn’t a standard price for drug rehab. However, this article discusses the factors that determine the overall cost of drug rehab.

Cost of Drug Rehab in Greater Toronto Area

Understanding the various rehab options and why they are expensive can help you avoid cheaper options. The cost of drug rehab varies from centre to centre even among private rehab centres. In the Greater Toronto Area, you can expect to pay an average price of $12, 250 for drug rehab.

However, your needs can greatly influence the cost of drug rehab. While some people may need detoxification, you may not require detoxification. With an initial detox step, the cost of your addiction rehab program will increase.

It’s always better to consider the result rather than the drug rehab expenses. As long as the treatment is effective and you’re sober, then the cost of drug rehab is justified.

Factors that Determine the Cost of Drug Rehab

When considering going for drug rehab, it’s important you know the various treatment options available. This is because the cost of drug rehab hinges on the type of treatment you’ll be getting.

Additionally, the expertise and experience of the staff in your rehab centre can impact your total bill. Rehab centres with registered therapists who have more knowledge, experience and certifications will charge more for their addiction rehab services.

Also, rehab centres charge you according to how long your treatment lasts. Here are the factors that determine the cost of drug rehab.

Private or government-owned rehab centre

Private rehab centres are owned by private individuals and aren’t funded by the government. It’s normal for private rehab centres to have varying prices. This is because of the different amenities they have and the difference in the quality of their staff. Also, if a private rehab centre has private rooms for each patient, the cost of drug rehab will be more.

Generally, private rehab centres base their price on some factors. They are,

Their staff’s educational level

Private rehab centres that have therapists with professional experience tend to charge more. Also, the attention each patient receives from these therapists influences the cost of drug rehab.

For example, a professional therapist may lead group sessions but not personal sessions. If a patient wishes to have personal sessions with the therapist, the patient will have to pay more.

Facilities

The facilities in private rehab centres can’t be compared to government rehab centres hence the cost. Also, private rehab centres have recreation facilities like swimming pools, tennis courts, gyms and spas. It’s almost like a home away from home. Sometimes, it’s even better.

Additionally, some private rehab centres offer workshops to help individuals develop certain skills. They also have personal trainers for workout classes and a conducive outdoor area. There’s no doubt that treatment will be more expensive compared to rehab centres that lack similar facilities.

Contrastingly, public or government-owned rehab centres are almost free because they are covered under OHIP. If you are a citizen in Canada, you can go to the closest rehab centre to you for treatment. However, there are clear-cut differences between private rehab centres and government-owned rehab centres.

Furthermore, because the government covers the cost of rehab, public rehab centers are usually overcrowded. This is one challenge many people face when they go to public rehab centres. prepare for what accompanies your decision.

Additionally, it isn’t immediately after you register for addiction treatment you start receiving treatment. After your registration, you will join the very long list of those waiting to receive treatment and it will take a long time.

Sometimes, the waiting period spans several months — a timeframe that may worsen the addiction. It’s not advisable to wait that long especially if you’re experiencing the adverse effects of drug addiction.

Also, asides from the long waiting list, you don’t get personal therapy sessions with the registered therapists. Unfortunately, people who go to public rehab centres have to cope with not receiving personal attention.

Because of the number of people the therapists have to attend to, they are constantly under more pressure. Unlike private rehabs, it’s almost impossible to get any personalized service in a public rehab centre.

The length of your treatment

Another factor that determines the cost of drug rehab is how long your treatment will last. Each rehab centre has a specific number of days for treatment which ranges from 30 to 45 days.

They charge you according to how long you spend in the rehab centre. When a patient’s stay is indefinite, the rehab centre will most likely charge you by the number of weeks or days.

Although people may be addicted to the same drug, the intensity of their addiction will be unique. Therefore the rehab centre cares for them according to their individual needs.

Some people may require a month to complete their addiction treatment while others may need over three months of care. People who suffer from depression, PTSD (post-traumatic stress disorder) or severe anxiety may require more time to receive treatment.

In addition to this, the extra time in rehab has a healing effect on the patient. It allows you to maximize how therapeutic it is to be in an environment that is safe.

Also, some treatments may require that each patient undergoes one week of complete detox. This detox usually precedes admission into inpatient rehab.

Conclusively, when considering the cost of drug rehab, factor in how long you’ll stay at the rehab centre. Also, compare the daily cost of your rehab program if it’s for a month, 45 days or more. This ensures you are prepared for the financial responsibilities and will help you prevent future surprises.

Related Article: Helping An Addict: Are You Enabling Them?

Staff professional qualifications

The quality of service you get from a rehab centre largely depends on the staff. The rehab centre is as good as the staff it has. To offer the best addiction service to cater to your mental health, rehab centres need to employ only the best. This means that their therapists will need to be registered at the master’s level before they can be employed.

Furthermore, they must have other medical personnel such as registered nurses, psychiatrists, psychologists, addiction counsellors and physicals. Often, many people mistake addiction counsellors for a registered therapist. However, they are different. And, so is their contribution to addiction treatment.

Standard rehab centres only allow registered therapists to conduct one on one sessions. If you have a session with a counsellor, it isn’t regarded as a therapy session.

In addition to this, the job of a registered therapist is to help you tackle unresolved issues. They also help you trace the trauma fueling your drug addiction. While contrastingly, addiction counsellors help you to handle the emotional trauma that occurs while recovering. They do this by helping you form healthy habits.

When choosing a rehab centre, inquire if they have registered therapists and how many are available. Also, note that the time you spend with an addiction counsellor or an acupuncturist isn’t the same as therapy.

Types of addiction treatment

Drug rehab services, although expensive,  ensures you get the best treatment available. The cost of drug rehab is influenced by the type of addiction treatment you need.

If you’re opting for in-patient rehab you can pay up to $60000 for a 90-day treatment program. Below are the types of addiction treatment and how they affect the cost of drug rehab.

In-patient

In-patient addiction treatment is recommended for people who have a severe drug addiction. According to Mental Health.gov, an inpatient program is valuable to patients suffering from disorders as a result of the addiction. Such disorders may include:

• Paranoia
• Hallucinations
• Delirium
• Euphoria

With an inpatient treatment program, addicts will receive round-the-clock care. During this time, there is a limit to exposure to the addicted drug. Also, there is a limit to interaction with people or things that contribute to the addiction.

Additionally, in-patient addiction treatment employs professionals that supervise your recovery process. Although expensive, it is better than out-patient because of the medical treatments patients receive.

Typically, in-patient addiction treatment provides food and accommodation in an environment conducive for their recovery. Considering feeding and accommodation, the cost of addiction treatment will be higher than in out-patient programs.

outpatient

Ranging anywhere from $10000 and above, outpatient addiction treatment is for those with less severe drug addiction. Also, they are for patients that have loved ones that support them and can support their sobriety. Patients who stay in environments conducive to their recovery don’t have to opt-in for in-patient treatment.

This can be an advantage for such patients as they get to spend less on treatment. However, patients in outpatient programs have slimmer chances of recovery than in-patient programs.

Nonetheless, outpatients can continue their daily routine and receive treatment too. Furthermore, outpatient addiction treatment offers various programs that address the addiction. They are,

• Behavioural therapy e.g motivational incentives, cognitive behavioural therapy and multidimensional family therapy.
• Group or individual counselling.

Many people often opt for outpatient addiction rehab because it is less expensive than inpatient addiction treatment. The absence of accommodation, medical treatment and feeding are what makes it less expensive.

Detox

During detox, the drug substance is medically taken out from your body. The process can be stressful for some and less stressful for others.

It is important to know that medical detox is not a must for every drug addiction patient. Only a consultation with an addiction treatment expert will help you tell if there is a need for detox.

After quitting drug use, some patients may experience severe withdrawal symptoms. These symptoms, if not medically handled, can lead to other complications. Hence, the importance of professionals during medical detox. Oftentimes, we advise patients to undergo detox where they are receiving treatment. The cost of medical detox ranges from $1000 to $1500.

Location

Although private addiction treatment is expensive, the centre’s location can impact the cost of drug rehab. If you stay in places where the cost of living is high, treatment will be more expensive. It’s advisable to put into consideration the location of the rehab centre before applying for drug rehab.

Addiction Rehab Payment Methods

Commonly, patients find it challenging to pay for drug addiction treatments. For this reason, most people neglect thoughts of going in for addiction treatment. There are several ways to pay for drug addiction treatments including:

Insurance

A common way of paying for drug addiction treatment is through insurance companies. To ensure that patients can undergo addiction treatment without much Financial strain, the Affordable Care Act (ACA) has made it compulsory that all insurance policies cover drug addiction treatments.

However, some companies have a limit to their insurance cover on drug addiction treatment. For instance, say your addiction treatment may require you to spend 60 days in rehab. Your insurance provider policy may only cover 30 days of addiction treatment. So, you may be paying for the other 30 days.

Also, insurance companies do not only decide your stay at rehab but the services you can receive. To cut costs on their end, you may not receive yoga and massage services. These services are meant to build your mind and help you stay focused. So, you may be paying extra if yoga services are included in your treatment program.

Medicaid and Medicare

If by any chance your insurance policy does not cover additional treatments, there are other payment methods. You can either use Medicare or Medicaid.

Medicare is federal health insurance that began in 1996. It focuses to help those who are unable to cater for their addiction treatment payments. To qualify for medicare, you are either

• 65 or older
• Below 65 and disabled.

Contrastingly, Medicaid provides free or low-cost health care to the less privileged. Most times, to low-income earning people. The good thing about Medicaid is that it doesn’t border on age or physical challenges.

Most times both medicare and Medicaid are funded by the federal or state government. Therefore, you may be paying little or nothing to gain access to rehab. However, this depends on your residence, eligibility and coverage.

Addiction treatment financing

In some cases, a patient may not qualify for Medicare and Medicaid insurances. For such people, there are other ways to get payments. Below, we have carefully highlighted some addiction treatment financing options for you.

• A home equity loan.
• Some scholarships are offered by addiction treatment centers. Your doctor can refer you or you can ask the admissions office about scholarships.
• Individual savings such as IRA or a 401(k) plan.
• Financing schemes that allow you to make payments after discharge

Frequently Asked Questions on the Cost of Drug Rehab

It’s common to have many questions bothering you concerning drug rehab. Here we provide answers to some frequently asked questions.

How do I know I’m ready for addiction rehab?

You don’t have to wait till you hit rock bottom before registering for addiction treatment. Waiting till your addiction is terrible can cause you to lose many things in the process. The ideal time to consider getting treatment is when you realize you’re addicted to drugs.

What is the length of treatment?

How long your drug addiction treatment will last depend on various factors. One factor that determines the treatment length is the severity of the addiction. The more severe your addiction is, the longer your addiction treatment will last. People who require detox will have to spend more time receiving treatment.

Can I go to rehab in another state?

While it’s not compulsory to leave your state or area for rehab, it can be beneficial. Often, patients get the most out of their addiction treatment when they are away from home.

A change of environment can help address issues contributing to their addiction. However, you can also take advantage of the rehab centres around you to get the treatment you need.

What should I take to rehab?

Rehab centres have varying do’s and don’ts. There are some things you aren’t allowed to take with you depending on your rehab centre. Before packing. ask your rehab centre for the list of items you can or can’t come with.

For instance, you are to come along with your clothes and toiletries. Also coming with a notepad and stationery is a good idea. You should also come with a valid means of identification. Your rehab centre will provide beddings, feeding, beverages and snacks.

Can I get sober on my own?

Getting professional help with dealing with drug addiction is important to your recovery. People often think they can stop drug addiction on their own but end up worsening their situation.

Withdrawal symptoms are usually painful hence the need for supervision by medical personnel. Detoxing by yourself is life-threatening and not advisable.

How do I prepare for rehab?

A lot of things will change about you when you go to rehab. Your absence may impact your family, job and lifestyle. Therefore, putting things in place before leaving for rehab is very important. This will ensure you focus on recovery and not bother about your family.

Also, consider the financial responsibilities accompanied by addiction treatment. You should consider your obligations at work and changes in your lifestyle.

Related Article: 8 Exercises That Can Help With Addiction Recovery

To Wrap It Up

Drug addiction isn’t the end of the world. This issue is most people tend to wait till their situation gets worse before getting treatment. The cost of drug rehab is worth the recovery that follows.

While preparing yourself mentally for drug rehab, you should also prepare financially. Typically, the average cost of drug rehab is about $12,250. Depending on your treatment program and rehab centre, it may be more or less. Also, people whose insurance doesn’t cover addiction treatment can use Medicare or Medicaid.

Don’t let the cost of drug rehab deter you from living a healthy life again. 1000 Islands Rehab Centre offers quality addiction treatment services in the Greater Toronto Area. Contact us to discuss pricing options with an expert today!

1. When you finally decide to get drug-recovery help, your next hurdle is to choose between inpatient and outpatient rehab. These are the two substance recovery programs you can get. Both are beneficial, but you can’t possibly engage both at the same time.

Inpatient and outpatient rehab have different treatment approaches. However, they both start with the same process of detoxification.

The differences between inpatient and outpatient rehab don’t mean that one is better than the other. In fact, in several cases, you have no choice but to adhere to a therapist’s recommendation.

This recommendation, most times, reflects your needs and the severity of your addiction problem. The content of this page, however, is for you if you are at liberty to make a choice.

In other words, your doctor’s outright prescription supersedes the decision-making that this article aims to help you through. Only your situation and your doctor will determine which is best between inpatient and outpatient rehab for you. This blog post will explore the differences between the two, and help you realize the best option.

Everything to know about Inpatient Rehab

Inpatient rehabilitation is just as the name suggests. It is a treatment whereby the patient resides in the facility till the drug rehab is complete. Hence, through the duration of the drug (substance) recovery treatment, the patient will not go back home.

This, just like outpatient rehab, has several upsides and downsides. First, we will take a look at everything inpatient treatment entails.

What does Inpatient Rehab Entail?

When it’s time to choose between inpatient and outpatient rehab, you may get overwhelmed. This occurs frequently when, probably, the doctor tells you inpatient treatment is best for you.

There is no need to be scared. Inpatient rehab loosely translates to residential treatment. It requires you to check-in and remain in the facility throughout treatment. This way, you get unlimited all-day access to medical and emotional support.

Inpatient rehab is mainly for you if your drug problem is severe. It also becomes critical to take this treatment form if your addiction elicits mental issues. This form of treatment offers a better-controlled environment, where temptations and triggers are greatly reduced.

Hence, if you follow the rules and have your resolve, you can overcome your addiction without any relapses along the way. Of course, the recovery process is not going to be linear all through. However, the inpatient program makes your recovery as linear as possible. Your streak has a better chance of not stalling in this environment.

Also, the staff of an inpatient facility is usually deliberate about the health of the environment. They work to make sure the environment is right for you, to help you get rid of the addiction problem.

Why does the environment count during in-patient rehab?

According to research, the environment plays an active role in the development of addiction. This is why it is necessary that even when you complete your inpatient program, family and friends need to go the extra mile to keep your primary home (space) as clean and devoid of triggers, as possible.

Addiction recovery services that look to offer inpatient programs also need licensing. This allows them to perform 24-hour support and intensive care. Generally, inpatient rehab facilities leverage a three-phase recovery program. The program begins with detox, then reflection, and finally, growth. These facilities have the primary focus of helping you come back to a natural lifestyle.

According to Research Gate, the duration of these programs depends has several influencing factors. For some people, a duration of 30 days is enough to get them back to normalcy. However, for some persons, it can extend well beyond 90 days. Only an addiction recovery expert gets to decide how long your inpatient program will be, based on diagnosis and observation.

Earlier, we established that it is important to have a healthy environment to go back to post-inpatient-rehab. The reality is that it is near-impossible for your family support to replicate the kind of conditions in treatment facilities. These facilities have dedicated individuals keeping everywhere clean and healthy. At home, your family, friends and you, have jobs to work, and other responsibilities.

For this reason, most addiction recovery centers have a step-down after-care treatment approach. This occurs towards the end of your recovery. It aims to help you transition back to the community. This is not a direct switch back to normal life. Instead, you are handed over to individuals or groups outside the facility to keep up with your recovery.

Timeline for inpatient rehab

Now, there are two types of inpatient facilities. The difference between these two types is “duration.” Some facilities allow only short-term stays for patients. This is usually between three to six weeks. Other facilities allow patients that need to stay for between six months to one year.

Whatever length of time you are staying at the facility, the detox process marks the commencement of your treatment. Detoxification is the process of getting elements of the abused substance out of your body. This process helps you have a less painful withdrawal process.

Once detoxification is complete, the facility focuses on helping you get stable. This is followed by withdrawal, then the development of coping skills, counselling, therapy, and continuous education.

How to prepare for Inpatient Rehab

Whichever you choose between inpatient and outpatient rehab, preparation is vital. Though slightly different in the two cases, preparation for rehab is premised on putting things in order. For inpatient treatment, you will be gone for a while.

Hence, you need to prepare for the longer-term (because treatment can extend beyond the initial proposed treatment time). Here is a breakdown of how you can efficiently prepare for your inpatient treatment program.

• Your necessities: You shouldn’t pack too heavy as you get into rehab. Your baggage should only include toiletries, comfortable clothing, and a couple of entertainment props. Your life in the rehab center will be as minimalistic as possible. Hence, you don’t need to pack as though you are going camping. The amenities and features of inpatient rehab are sufficient for your staying period.

• Inform your workplace: Another important aspect of preparation is communicating with your place of work. You can’t just disappear into thin air. Though talking to the company may not guarantee your job when you are back, it’s the right thing to do.

• Sort your family financially: If you are the breadwinner in your family, you shouldn’t leave them out to dry. Though, in this case, outpatient rehab may be best. But if your situation is chronic and in-house treatment is a must, then sort finances for your family. Part of your treatment is to be at peace mentally. You’ll probably not achieve this if you are worried about how your children are faring. Take them to someone you can trust, and put enough money in the bank for when you leave for rehab.

• Find out what the facility has to offer: This is a basic need. You should do your due diligence by knowing what to expect from the treatment facility.

How to enjoy family support in inpatient rehab

Support is a major part of rehabilitation. Even though the primary support of inpatient treatment is the staff of the facility, family support is critical. Frequent contact with family, either via calls or in person, provides a huge psychological and emotional boost for addiction recovery.

However, you should note that inpatient addiction rehab facilities have different communication policies between patients and families. You may want to find out more before checking in either yourself or the family member going to rehab.

Also, some facilities offer to counsel the family of patients. It is advisable that you – the family of the patient – take this class. It helps to understand how you can better aid the recovery of your family member. Unsuspecting family members can encourage triggers, which may cause relapse in the patient.

What does daily life during inpatient rehab look like?

When you choose between inpatient and outpatient rehab, you are certainly forgoing some alternatives. One of the alternatives you forgo is normal daily living as you know it. Once the inpatient treatment starts, your movement suffers restriction. This way, you’ll be able to focus on getting sober and free, on time.

The typical daily activity of the inpatient program is scheduling and accountability. There is always a recovery-focused activity for every one of your waking hours. Frequently, counsellors, psychologists, and psychiatrists have meetings with patients. These meetings can be individual or in groups. These meetings also serve as a guide to faster recovery.

During the first few days of detox, the specialists monitor the patient. During this process, patients are known to have severe cravings. At this stage, constant medical care is critical, to prevent relapse. There is also the administration of medication to manage the effect of detox and withdrawal.

The treatment process in inpatient programs is always personalized. This is because individual brains react differently to the presence of addictive substances. The withdrawal process, in response, always has varying symptoms for individuals. But, generally, it’s not an easy process. This is why patients need all the support they can get. Medical attention is enough to be the deciding factor for better inpatient vs. outpatient rehab.

Related Article: How Long Does Addiction Treatment Take?

What is the cost of Inpatient Rehab?

Primarily, the cost of inpatient rehab – and outpatient rehab – vary from one facility to another. Several factors influence this pricing. Some of these factors include; location, amenities, duration of stay, etc.

For some inpatient rehabs, the cost can be anywhere between $6000 and $30,000. However, reputable, luxury inpatient rehab centers can be about $20000 for 30 days. The major difference in this pricing range is the amenities available to patients. Hence, before you choose between inpatient and outpatient rehab, you should research the specific pricing of the facility in question.

If your stay will extend to about 60 or 90 days, the cost will average between $12,000 and $60,000. Whatever price point your treatment may be, in most inpatient treatment centers, it already includes the cost of detoxification.

Benefits of Inpatient Rehabilitation

The following are the advantages that inpatient rehabilitation centers offer.

• You enjoy a stable, healthy, and sober environment

• You get access to round-the-clock medical and psychological attention

• There is a reduction in the risk of relapse

• You have all-day access to a support group of specialists and fellow patients

• There is a reduction in your exposure to triggers

• You get an ample amount of therapy

• You enjoy special treatment services, which may, however, add to the overall cost

• There is a higher probability of fast recovery.

Remember that inpatient recovery solutions are best for you if you have a severe addiction issue. It may cost more than outpatient treatments, but it’s worth it.

Disadvantages of inpatient rehabilitation

While mulling over the question of “is inpatient rehab right for me?”, consider these downsides.

• You don’t get access to the outside world. This technically stalls your life activities. Business, education, relationships; you have to put them on hold.

• Your finances will take a hit, as you are not actively working.

• The cost of treatment can be on the high side, though necessary for severe addiction cases.

The bottom-line to inpatient treatment is that there is a stage you get to and it becomes necessary. No matter how difficult and inconvenient it may seem to your daily life, you should go through with it.

Everything You Need to Know about Outpatient Rehab

In the inpatient or outpatient rehab for addiction recovery debate, the latter has its benefits. The outpatient treatment is less restrictive, unlike the inpatient recovery treatment. Doctors prescribe this treatment for patients who suffer from mild addiction.

Outpatient Detox Program

This is the form of addiction treatment where you don’t have to reside in the facility. You can stay in your home and come in for treatment per appointment with your doctor. Per week, this type of treatment amounts to about 10 to 12 hours.

The main focus of these sessions is education on drug abuse. Specialists achieve this either in individual or group counselling sessions. The teachings help people better understand how to cope without their substances.

The second scenario where outpatient rehab is key is for long-term addiction treatment. Due to the brevity of each session, outpatient programs last anywhere between 3 to 6 months. While this is somewhat similar to what you sometimes have in inpatient rehab, it is different. Inpatient rehabs treat folks with a severe addiction in that time frame. On the other hand, outpatient addiction rehab is for mild addictions. There are also cases where the outpatient rehab sessions extend to about a year.

Since the patients are those with mild drug addiction issues, detox is always easier. Here, the detox is for the mild withdrawal symptoms they experience. Hence, an outpatient detox program is always faster than inpatient detox.

Though, during the detox process, it is better than the patient spends slightly more time at the facility. This aids effective monitoring and response. Also, since detox always calls for the prescription of medication, doctors administer that on-site. This is because symptoms from the withdrawal process include; increased heart rate, anxiety, and depression.

Social support during Outpatient Rehab

When the latter is what you choose between inpatient and outpatient rehab, you need to be careful. You get to go home. Hence, you are exposed to family and friends. Then, there are intermittent meetings with the specialist. This meeting can be early in the morning, or later in the evening.

One common social tool that’s used to aid outpatient treatment is the twelve-step groups. Some of these groups are Narcotics Anonymous (NA) and Alcoholics Anonymous (AA). The AA started in 1935 in Ohio and currently has about 2 million members across the world. The community has about a hundred and thirty recovery programs that are premised on the original 12 steps that Wilson and Smith put forward.

The success rate statistics show just how efficient this community is. These various programs have seen AA enjoy a 50% success rate in members. Another 25% of its members suffer relapse but find their way back.

As we said earlier, outpatient treatments are generally less costly than inpatient. The 24-hour medical care available to inpatients, alongside psychotherapy, accounts for this cost difference. Be aware that cost difference shouldn’t factor in your reason to choose between inpatient and outpatient rehab. You should solely base that decision on the severity of your addiction.

What is the cost of Outpatient Rehab?

Outpatient treatments are generally less costly than inpatient treatments. Though, depending on how long the treatment continues, the range can overlap. Outpatient rehab programs are about $5000 for a three-month program.

Though, this depends on the treatment facility you are at. With top facilities, the price can climb to about $10,000. One major determinant of price in outpatient treatments is the frequency of your consultations.

Why you should consider outpatient rehab

An expert should be the one to recommend this treatment, depending on how deep in the addiction you are. Outside these, however, there are other reasons why outpatient treatment is a good idea.

• You don’t get to put your whole life on hold to get the treatment. This way, you can continue to fend for your family while you get treatment. This is particularly advantageous when there’s no one you can commit your family to. However, you’ll also need your family to reciprocate by providing you with the best support they can.

•  The cost is generally lower, but can also pile up if there is an extension. Hence, be sure that you are going according to plan, and not relapsing. Relapse makes the recovery process longer.

• You get to choose what works for you. This is possible because your addiction condition is mild. You can choose between any of the programs available. Especially if you are in a support system like the AA, you don’t have to go through the 130 programs they have. Choose what works best for you and your schedule.

• You can choose your appointment at any time of the day. This degree of flexibility is important.

• Some outpatient facilities can also treat mental complications. E.g. eating disorder, post-traumatic stress, depression, bipolar disorder, etc.

Outpatient treatments may not be as intensive as inpatient treatments. But if you do it right, you’ll enjoy the effectiveness of it in your addiction recovery journey.

Why you should not consider outpatient rehab

Before you choose between inpatient and outpatient rehab, there are also some downsides to note.

• It’s difficult to avoid temptations and triggers. In this system, you don’t get the 24-hours support you get with inpatient treatments. Also, the environment is not controlled. Hence, you can’t avoid temptations and triggers even if you wanted to.

• You may not be able to show up to group sessions unaided. As much as it sounds easy that you can. The inertia is always great. It is hard work to show up for group sessions, and the truth is, the success lies in these sessions.

Hence, if your addiction is chronic, or you see that the outpatient program is not working, you should make a switch.

How to Choose Between Inpatient and Outpatient Rehab

The decision to choose between inpatient and outpatient rehab is not up to you. First, you need to visit an expert, who will listen to you, and make a diagnosis. Post consultation, the expert will be able to determine the severity of your addiction. The severity automatically determines which of these treatments is right for you.

For mild to moderate addiction, it’s best to take the outpatient treatment route. This is different for chronic addicts that need intense withdrawal and close-up monitoring.

However, in the case where you have a choice, you should consider the various factors we have talked about for the different treatment approaches. Know what you are gaining and losing with the treatments, to inform your decision. Whichever you decide, seek further advice from your doctor.

Related Article: Holistic Addiction Treatment: Is it Effective?

Final Take

Having to choose between inpatient and outpatient rehab is not easy — especially if you are new to the whole concept of addiction treatment. You should do your due diligence during research.

Ask questions from your doctor and talk to people around you. With addiction, it’s near impossible to overcome it yourself. You also need massive support from professionals, family, and friends. Good luck!

It’s easy to conclude that some substances are addictive. However, how addictive are these substances? What are the most addictive drugs you need to educate your child or loved one about?

As much as there are several varieties of harmful drugs in the world, each has different addictive levels. Some are somewhat non-addictive, while others can cause addiction quickly. Ultimately, understanding the most addictive drugs available is essential. This way, you’ll be able to figure out whether you or your loved one is at great risk for addiction.

Generally, all highly addictive drugs have one significant quality. They offer pleasurable effects to your brain. It’s an effect that triggers the reward centre and makes you want more. This chain reaction is why drug addiction is rapidly becoming one of the biggest problems in Canada.

Several factors are responsible for determining what makes these substances so addictive. This includes the harm they pose to the brain, the entire body, and their easy availability to potential abusers. Here, we’ve put together a list of the most addictive drugs in the world.

6 Most Addictive Drugs

Generally, most individuals presume that hard drugs like heroin and cocaine are the most harmful and addictive types of drugs available. Undoubtedly, the addictive features in these commonly abused substances are intense. However, the frequency of use/abuse and availability are also factors to consider in their addictive potentials.

Somehow, not all highly-addictive substances are illegal. Others are legal and getting these drugs can be as easy as walking to the nearest store down the street. Some of the factors that determine the severity of the drugs and why they are some of the most addictive drugs in the world include:

• Physical dependence
• Psychological dependence
• The intensity of pleasure

Here are 6 most addictive drugs in the World:

Heroin

The first on our list of most addictive drugs is Heroin. Heroin is a class of opioids with origin from morphine. Its mode of consumption often includes sniffing, snorting, smoking, and injecting. Heroin addiction is a disorder that includes mental and behavioural changes as a result of excess heroin use.

Heroin is an illegal yet highly addictive drug. It’s one of the fastest-acting and regularly abused opiates. Itis an opioid drug made from naturally-occurring morphine taken from the seed pod of several opium poppy plants. These plants are often grown in areas like Southwest Asia, Southeast, Colombia and Mexico.

Heroin can come in the form of a brown or white powder, or a black sticky form is known as black tar heroin. Other popular names for heroin include smack, hell dust, horse, big H, etc.

Furthermore, pure heroin is a white powder with a bitter taste that widely originates in South America, and dominates the U.S. It also extends to some extent, Southeast Asia and markets east of the Mississippi River. Highly pure heroin can be snorted or smoked and is more appealing to new users. This is because it doesn’t have the stigma relating to injection drug use.

Also, Black tar heroin is considered sticky because it’s hard like coal and looks like the roofing tar. This type of heroin is popularly produced in Mexico and sold in the U.S. areas around the west of the Mississippi River.

The dark colour of black tar heroin results from its crude processing methods. This poor processing method is why it also contains impurities. Impure heroin is often dissolved, diluted, and injected into muscles, under the skin, or veins.

In its pure form, heroin is a fine white powder that is bitter to taste and readily dissolves in water. In the streets, the colour of heroin varies according to the additives that have been added to it.

Substances like sugar and powdered milk are added to increase its street weight to increase retail sales. In recent times, fentanyl is being added to increase heroin’s potency. According to the CDC, fentanyl is a substance that is one hundred times more deadly than morphine

Symptoms of Heroin Addiction

Generally, symptoms of heroin addiction can appear immediately after last use or between 6-30 hours later. However, this may vary depending on how long you’ve been taking the drug.

You may experience prolonged symptoms even after 72 hours of your last dose. These symptoms can extend up to a week, depending on your level of addiction.

Additionally, the symptoms you’ll experience often depend on the addiction level you’re experiencing. Several factors may dictate the duration in which you’ll go through the addiction symptoms. This is why everyone experiences addiction symptoms differently.

Here are a few symptoms of heroin addiction:

• Dry mouth
• Flushed skin
• Constricted pupils
• Slow breathing
• Falling asleep suddenly
• Vomiting
• Itching
• Loss of self-control
• Nausea
• Constipation
• Slurred speech
• Yawning often

Marijuana

Typically, marijuana is a psychoactive substance capable of altering your perception. It contains tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), the primary chemical compound that stimulates its effects. Furthermore, the effects of marijuana may vary from person to person, depending on its mode of consumption.

A medical professional can easily diagnose marijuana addiction in an individual. However, it’s noteworthy to know that its addiction possesses a significant adverse risk on the individual’s life. People can cultivate a mental dependence on cannabis in the same way they do with other addictive substances. As such, it is one of the most addictive drugs in the world.

When a person uses marijuana, cannabinoid receptors present in the brain become active via the neurotransmitter known as Anandamide. Tetrahydrocannabinol then blocks and mimics the actions of natural neurotransmitters like Anandamide.

This extends to the point where your body no longer generates enough Anandamide on its own. It is at this point that marijuana abuse and addiction sets in.

Symptoms of Marijuana Addiction

Ultimately, the chemical substance in weed reprograms your brain to require it more to feel normal. When you finally decide to stop giving your body more THC, withdrawal symptoms may kick in.

This is a result of a lack of Anandamide in your body. As with other addictive drugs in the world, wanting to quit marijuana usage but not being able to quit is one of the top indicators of marijuana addiction.

Here are a few symptoms of marijuana addiction:

• Consuming excessive cannabis
• Bloodshot eyes
• Weight gain
• Impaired coordination
• Increased appetite
• Nervous or paranoid behaviour
• Inability to slow down or stop using marijuana
• Spending too much time high on weed
• Slowed reaction time
• Dry mouth
• Anxiety
• Memory impairment
• Dizziness
• Lack of motivation
• Ignoring your daily activities
• Using marijuana as a determining factor on your outings

Related Article: The Most Commonly Abused Prescription Drugs in the World

Cocaine

Cocaine is a potent stimulant and a prevalent party drug that offers euphoric feelings and increased energy. Its unique effects are why cocaine is one of the most addictive drugs in the world.

This makes it the most sought-after type of drug for some people. Cocaine stimulates the brain’s reward system by releasing high levels of dopamine, which then encourages regular use.

Somehow, cocaine is legal for medical use in the hospital. However, it’s never prescribed for patients. Generally, it’s used at nightclubs, parties, getaways and individual homes.

Over time, cocaine abusers start taking higher amounts of the drug. Increasing the dosage of cocaine also increases the risk of overdose and leads to psychosis, stroke, cardiac arrest, and heart failure in serious cases. This makes cocaine highly dangerous in addition to being highly addictive.

Also, physical dependence increases as your body adapt more to the cocaine in your system. Through this adaptation, your brain will start asking for cocaine to function well and feel normal again. The moment it doesn’t get the substance at the desired level, withdrawal symptoms will commence.

Symptoms of Cocaine Addiction

Addiction reveals a failure to quit using a drug despite the personal distress it brings. It’s a lifelong dysfunction of a person’s mental well-being that involves memory, motivation, and reward.

Also, addiction is about how your body craves a behaviour or substance. Here are a few symptoms of cocaine addiction:

• Dilated pupils
• Over-excitement
• Mood swings
• Depression
• Financial problems
• Legal issues
• Paranoia
• Overconfidence
• Loss of appetite
• White powder around nostrils
• Irritability
• Missing work or being late work, date, or meeting
• Runny nose or frequent sniffles

Amphetamine

Generally, Amphetamines are psychiatric drugs that alter the chemical structure of the brain. This is possible because your mind will adjust to the drug and its effect. Essentially, your brain may assume it’s not functioning correctly and try to adjust to suit the changes.

One of the most addictive drugs in the world, Amphetamines are a class of stimulant-type drugs known for increasing energy and blood pressure, heart rate, and body temperature.

Typically, Amphetamines refer to prescription drugs like Adderall (which consist of Amphetamine and dextroamphetamine), Methylin, and Concerta.

These drugs are sometimes sold illegally. However, both street and prescribed amphetamines can be abused and as such cause use disorder. Generally, methamphetamine is the most frequently misused amphetamine.

Amphetamine dependence, a type of stimulant use disorder, occurs when you need the drug to function daily. You’ll experience symptoms of withdrawal if you’re dependent and you abruptly stop using the drug. At this point, the best option is to enroll at an Amphetamine addiction treatment centre.

In the medical world, Amphetamines are often used to treat ADHD (Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder). These drugs are unlikely to cause addiction when prescribed by a doctor and taken at the intended dosage. However, when they are abused indiscriminately, Amphetamines can wreak havoc on your brain and body.

Amphetamine withdrawal is a class of metabolic trauma your body experiences when you stop using the drug after being dependent on it. The feelings come in a different range of psychological and physiological symptoms.

These signs are hazardous and may continue for weeks. It can also lead to mental illness and physiological disorders if managed poorly. This stresses the importance of addiction treatment services.

Symptoms of Amphetamine Addiction

Amphetamine addiction comes with a mix of mental and physical effects that you may experience after overtime. If you experience any of these symptoms, it is best to seek emergency assistance immediately. If left unmanaged, these complications may have potentially disastrous consequences.

Here are some of the symptoms of Amphetamine addiction:

• Increased blood pressure and heart rate
• Insomnia
• Mood swings
• Anxiety and paranoia
• Missing pills from a doctor’s prescription
• Weight loss and reduced appetite
• Loss of interest in previous favourite activities
• Digestive upset
• Auditory, visual, or tactile hallucinations
• Difficulties with keeping relationships and changes in the group of friends
• Inability to maintain home, school, or work responsibilities
• Inability to keep up with work, school, or home responsibilities
• Much of the person’s time spent seeking or using the drug, etc.

Nicotine

Generally, nicotine is a greatly addictive substance found in the tobacco plant. The addiction to nicotine is physical as well as mental. This means chronic users tend to crave the substance physically and mentally.

Addiction to nicotine also has a behavioural effect. Individuals often become dependent on actions that involve using tobacco. Furthermore, such individuals may end up becoming accustomed to tobacco use in a certain scenario like when under stress or after meals.

Nicotine is majorly consumed by inhaling tobacco or cigarette smoke. Other ways to smoke tobacco include cigars and pipes. However, smokeless tobacco is usually held in the mouth or inhaled through the nose as a powder.

Tobacco is harmful to your health. According to Lung.CA, an estimated 45,000 Canadians end up dead every year as a result of smoking. Numerous others are suffering from chronic diseases related to smoking. Despite prevention efforts and public health education, approximately 15 percent of Canadians are smokers.

Symptoms of Nicotine Addiction

Generally, nicotine is the chemical substance in tobacco that makes you keep smoking. It reaches the brain within seconds of taking a small puff. There, nicotine alters the release of neurotransmitters in the brain and increases their release. This, however, aids your mood regulation and behaviour.

As such, dopamine gets released into the centre of the brain causing feelings of satisfaction, pleasure, and good mood. However, the more you smoke, the more nicotine you need to feel good. Nicotine quickly becomes part of your daily routine and is intertwined with your habits and feelings.

Here are some of the symptoms of nicotine addiction:

• Inability to stop using tobacco products
• Withdrawal signs start coming once you stop nicotine use
• Wanting to keep smoking even after all complications pointing to your depreciating health

The Other Opioids

Generally, opioids are a specific class of prescription drugs known by several other names. Aside from heroin mentioned above, opiates generally are one of the most addictive drugs. Yet, they are easily available.

Examples include:

• Codeine
• Morphine
• OxyContin
• Percocet
• Percodan
• Vicodin

In general, these drugs are prescriptions to help boost pain management during treatment by filling the brain’s sense of pain. In doing so, opioids also release dopamine swiftly. This is why people develop an addiction to these kinds of painkillers.

Usually, these medications are safe when used according to a prescription. However, they can become disastrous when in excess or high doses. Consuming one large quantity of these drugs can result in death or respiratory failure. Also, the danger opioids pose become even more significant when in use with alcohol or other substances.

Symptoms of Opioid addiction

Opioids can make your body and brain believe the drug is necessary for survival. As you learn to tolerate the dose you’ve been prescribed, you may find that you need even more medication to relieve the pain or achieve well-being, which can lead to dependency.

Addiction takes hold of our brains in several ways — and is far more complex and less forgiving than many people realize. Here are some symptoms of opioid addiction:

• Sleeping at odd hours
• Getting to school or work on an erratic schedule
• Mood swings
• Getting cranky or nervous at random
• Getting into a problem with the law
• Eating less or more than usual
• Losing interest in activities
• Changing friends or mixing with a different set of people
• Avoiding time with friends and family and spending most times alone
• Losing interest in activities
• Getting tired or sad easily
• Not brushing, bathing, or changing clothes
• Becoming more energetic, unusually strong, talking fast or saying things that don’t make any sense
• Missing crucial appointments
• Facing financial difficulties, etc.

Addiction Treatment Options for the Most Addictive Drugs

Knowing how to recognize drugs with a high possibility of addiction is the first step to seeking redemption. As your substance use grows day by day, either for recreational or medicinal use, the possibility of addiction grows as well.

The next step is seeking addiction treatment. Across Canada, there are several rehab centres that offer treatment for various stages of addiction. Therapy for drug addiction may exist in the following forms:

Cognitive-Behavioural Therapy (CBT)

This is a form of psychotherapy session where you learn different behavioural strategies. Most importantly, you’ll learn techniques to recognize and correct behaviours that encourage drugs. This will help boost your self-control, quit drug use, and address several other issues that often co-occur with drug addiction.

Contingency Management

This is a therapeutic management pattern based on regular monitoring of a particular trait or behaviour. It also includes the removal (or provision) of concrete, positive rewards when the trait occurs — or does not.

Motivational Enhancement Therapy

This is a systematic approach to addiction treatment intervention. This approach is specifically designed to create swift, internally prompt change. In most cases, the therapy doesn’t attempt to treat the individual. Instead, it mobilizes internal resources for growth and obligation in treatment.

Some other options for treating dependence on the most addictive drugs include:

• Going through medication to help your detox procedure
• Individual and group counselling
• Self-help groups

Related Article: The Long Term Effects of Prescription Drug Abuse

Conclusion

From the above, we have been able to analyze which drugs are most addictive, their symptoms, and treatment options. In some cases, your health condition may require a prescription drug that falls into the category of “too addictive drugs”. However, following your medication as prescribed will help you prevent addiction.

If you or someone you love is suffering from addiction to any of the drugs we discussed above, seeking professional help is a better option. Here at1000 Islands Rehab Centre, our addiction treatment experts can design a detox and treatment plan for your addiction. Contact us today!