A guide to drug and alcohol rehab in Richmond Upon Thames
Recovering from addiction is a challenging and emotional process, and searching for the best rehab isn’t always easy. Thankfully, there are lots of options for addiction treatment in Richmond Upon Thames. This guide to rehab for drug addiction and alcohol addiction is designed to help you to decide on the best treatment and detox options available to you in London.
Frequently asked questions about rehab in Richmond upon Thames, London:
Rehabilitation is a process in which medical professionals who have been through an addiction (such as drug addiction, alcohol addiction or gambling) can provide support to others on their
journey to recovery, through a process of detox and holistic therapy. Rehab provides a safe space in which someone suffering from addiction can withdraw from an addictive substance without external influences.
Therapists provide access to group and private therapy sessions to deal with underlying causes of addiction, and if necessary, will suggest medical detox. There is usually access to an aftercare programme as part of the rehabilitation process, and this helps those who have gone through rehab to stay sober. All UKAT patients have access to ourAlumni communityto help them stay well-connected and supported after their treatment is complete.
Is rehab free?
Addiction rehab is available as a free addiction treatment service which is funded by the NHS, and also through private treatment. Free treatment is accessed through self-referral and comes in the form of outpatient care, detox programmes and group counselling. There are also a limited number of beds for inpatient (residential) care through charities such as Turning Point.
Free addiction treatment services in Richmond Upon Thames
Free treatment options are an important alternative to private clinics. There are several options for free treatment in Richmond Upon Thames.
Free treatment isn’t the fastest option and can sometimes take weeks to conclude, which could put the health of you or a loved one at risk. Limited residential spaces and cuts in government funding coupled with the prevalence of addiction means that it’s likely that only outpatient treatment options are available through the NHS.
Getting private treatment is an option for those that want immediate care. Many private rehabs accept private insurance and provide benefits such as specialist programmes, full-board lodging and access to community projects.
Types of addiction treatment and rehab programmes in Richmond Upon Thames
There are many different treatment and rehab options for anyone suffering from addiction. These range from the outpatient programmes (day rehab services) commonly associated with free treatment, to the inpatient programmes that are mostly available at private rehab treatment centres. Each service comes with its own benefits.
Outpatient addiction treatment (day rehab)
Rather than taking up residence at the rehab centre, outpatient programmes require a visit to the clinic for each treatment session. The person suffering from addiction lives at home, and visits the clinic whenever a treatment session is scheduled. Most NHS backed rehabilitation is on a strictly outpatient basis because of restricted investment. Some private clinics, however, can offer outpatient programmes as well as inpatient treatments if this is the option you prefer.
Pros of outpatient treatment
Flexibility for anyone that has childcare and work commitments
You can remain in control of your home routine
Cheaper than private care
Cons of outpatient treatment
Not ideal for those with severe addiction
People may be referred to a clinic far from home
Recovery may be affected by life distractions
Take longer to complete
Does not guarantee a safe space to stay during detox
Does not guarantee a dedicated therapist
Not able to share the experience with like-minded residents
Inpatient addiction treatment
Inpatient addiction treatment is also known as residential rehab, and it involves living at the rehabilitation premises throughout the treatment programme. This enables you to have constant care and stability throughout your recovery. Taking a break from your routine in a safe environment provides the necessary time to focus on a life free from addictive substances.
How does residential (inpatient) rehab work?
Entering into residential rehab is an important step in a journey to recovery. The following will help you understand what to expect from this type of rehab.
The first step to being admitted for free addiction treatment is a visit to a GP. They will assess your situation and refer you to a specialist. If your referral is approved, it can take a few weeks to hear back with a scheduled appointment.
In contrast, admission to a private treatment centre can start from the moment you make a phone call. A private on-suite facility can be available within 24 hours, where
a licensed psychiatrist will explain all your treatment options. They will be on-hand to answer any questions you might have and explain the process in detail.
While every centre will have its own rules, we can provide this comprehensive list to what you should pack for your treatment:
We advise that you bring:
iPod or radio
You may be limited to how often you can use your laptop and mobile phone during treatment, to increase your chances of recovery.
The following items are usually not permitted:
Illicit alcohol/ drugs
Any form of weapon or dangerous object
Sharp objects such as knives, scissors, needles, and razor blades
Aerosols or perfume
Mouthwash with alcohol contents
Alcohol detox and drug detox describe the process of allowing the body to rid itself of harmful substances. The aim is to make you as comfortable as possible by providing a safe and controlled environment. If a person has high levels of a substance in their bloodstream then medication can be used to wean them off gradually and reduce their
discomfort. If the volume of an addictive substance is decreased rapidly then the body can go into shock. As there is a chance this could be lethal, a medical professional may recommend the use of detox medication to reduce withdrawal symptoms.
The same therapy doesn’t work for everyone, and each individual responds differently to the range of recovery options. Many rehab centres offer many recovery approaches, such as 12 step programmes, one-to-one therapy and Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT).
Choosing the right programme
A good rehab should include both private and group therapies, and offer an inclusive
atmosphere in accordance with an individual’s personal and religious beliefs. A quality
rehab programme should also provide assistance for those dealing with psychological
problems. Compound disorders can be treated with a dual diagnosis without
negatively impacting a pre-existing mental health issue.
It’s important to check a rehab’s Care Quality Commission rating. This will tell you how safe, effective, caring, responsive and well-led each clinic is. You can find a rehab’s accreditation by searching on their website. Each of our centre’s CQC ratings are at a ‘good’ or ‘outstanding’ ranking.
Family support programmes
If a person is dealing with alcoholism, drug abuse, or any other addiction, it can be devastating for those who are close to them. A supportive centre will offer family
sessions that can provide a positive space for everyone to make important changes together.
How long does rehab last?
A typical rehabilitation programme will last between four and twelve weeks, but there
isn’t an ideal period of time that is suitable for everyone. In general, the longer an
individual stays in a treatment centre, the more likely they are to remain in recovery after they depart. It is common for many people who book in for a short stay at rehab to extend their time. It takes a couple of weeks to adjust to the new environment and the detox process before a person feels fully settled, so it’s advisable to book a programme that’s longer than eight weeks. This gives you the best chance of fully adjusting to a life free from addictive substances.
The benefits of residential rehab
On-hand medical specialists and support staff
Schedule and meals set up for you, giving you time to focus on recovery
Removes you from any temptation and life distractions
Luxurious and comfortable grounds to stay in during detox
Opportunity to share the experience with like-minded residents
Immersive aftercare programme
What happens after rehab?
The journey to recovery will continue after you have left your rehab centre, to ensure you settle back into home life with ease. This means that aftercare is an important part of the recovery process.
Residential rehabs often provide an aftercare service. This takes the form of group therapy, private therapy, or support groups.
At UKAT, we offer one year of free group therapy to all residents who require it after their treatment is finished. Anyone who has attended our clinics is given access to our Alumni community. Here, people in recovery are brought together through activities and
events, where they can build connections and support each other after their treatment.
Support groups are another advisable form of aftercare. Alcoholics Anonymous (AA), Narcotics Anonymous (NA) and Cocaine Anonymous (CA) are examples of confidential groups that can be attended both during and after your treatment. ‘SMART recovery’ is a non-profit that provides assistance to anyone seeking abstinence from addiction. They are all completely free of charge, and provide a safe space for you to connect with peers and receive support throughout your recovery journey.
Long term recovery from addiction
Once you leave the rehab clinic and return to your regular routine, you will need to use the techniques learned during rehab and therapy to stay committed to sobriety and recovery. People who have recently left their rehab centre are the most vulnerable to the triggers of the outside world, and we are here to ensure important aftercare services available to help you through your journey.
You can visit your loved one for an hour every Sunday at our private centres. However, to prevent the spread of Covid-19 you will not be permitted to visit loved ones during the lockdown.
Family support groups take place every week at each of our centres and anyone who has a close connection to the patient can join. Not all rehabilitation centres offer this option, so this needs to be checked on their website.
overall satisfied with my treatment