Frequently Asked Questions

Understanding Treatment

Is addiction a disease or a choice?

Addiction, clinically referred to as a substance use disorder, is a complex disease of the brain and body that involves compulsive use of one or more substances despite serious health and social consequences.

Can I detox at home?

Withdrawal symptoms occur when you rid your body of a substance. Symptoms may vary depending on which substance you are withdrawing from. Some of the more common symptoms include the chills, heavy sweats, vomiting, diarrhea.

How do I get help for addiction?

Getting help for addiction can be achieved in three easy steps. Choosing a treatment center, speaking with an admissions team member, and going to rehab.

How to Choose a Rehab

What should I look for when choosing a rehab center?

When considering a rehab center, one of the first things to look for is if it treats the type of addiction that you have. If struggling with a heroin and alcohol addiction, choosing a facility that can effectively address both is essential to having a positive outcome. The next consideration should be for insurance coverage. If using insurance (private or government), check to make sure it is accepted, whether at a local facility or out-of-state.

What’s the difference between residential and outpatient treatment?

There are two primary types of rehab centers available to those seeking recovery from heroin addiction: residential and outpatient. Depending on the level of care needed, individuals can choose an inpatient program that provides personal care 24-hours-a-day within a facility; or opt for an outpatient program that allows them to fulfill personal and professional obligations while in treatment.

Inpatient treatment allows patients to fully focus on their recovery while removing the pressures of their daily lives. Because of this, they are often better able to work through their addiction issues. Outpatient treatment is typically an option for those with less severe or shorter-term addictions, and recovery programming varies.6 Some cover a full day’s worth of meetings, sessions, and classes in a single day, while others treat individuals an hour or two a day a few days a week.

Should I travel for treatment?

Although traveling to another city or state is not necessary to effectively work toward sobriety, it can be beneficial for a number of reasons. For many, the problems and triggers that ultimately led to addiction are associated with their home environment. Seeking treatment away from those familiar surroundings can be a helpful way to fully focus on recovery, free of distractions and temptations.

How is treatment at American Addiction Centers different?

As a leading provider for addiction treatment nationwide, American Addiction Centers is committed to your recovery. When you invest and successfully complete 90 consecutive days at an American Addiction Centers facility, we believe that you have created the most solid foundation for your long-term goals of sobriety. In the event that you experience a relapse, you are welcome back for a complimentary 30 days of our treatment*.

*Terms and conditions may apply, and results may vary.

Financial Costs

What are the differences between private and state care?

In general, state-funded rehab centers are more cost-effective than privately-funded treatment facilities when paying out of pocket. Yet, because state-funded rehab centers get their funding from the government, they tend to offer less customizable treatment options. Often times, state-funded rehabs over-crowded and individuals are put on a waiting list to be admitted. Private facilities on the other hand may provide a broader array of therapies and a more thorough regimen of classes. From the grounds to the meals, activities, amenities and services, private programs tend to offer a more tailored guest experience.

How much does it cost?

The cost of treatment for heroin addiction varies based on level of care needed, location, type of facility, length of treatment, and other factors. The cost can range from a couple thousand to tens of thousands of dollars a month. Options to pay for treatment include insurance, loans, savings, payment plans, or crowdfunding.

What to Expect

How long will I be in treatment?

This depends on how much progress you make during your treatment. Our staff generally recommends a 90-day stay; however, some patients may choose to stay only 30 days (the minimum length of stay in our residential program).

Can bring my cell phone and computer?

Yes, you may bring your cellphone, computers, tablets, and other small electronic devices to be used during non-programming hours.

Will I get to leave the facility periodically?

While most of your time in treatment will be at the facility, you may occasionally leave the grounds when participating in recreational therapies that involve hiking.

Can I leave treatment at any time?

Yes, you can leave rehab at any time. However, early discharge against medical advice is not recommended, as it can set back your recovery and increase the likelihood of using heroin again. Recovery is a process. It is normal to feel anxious or overwhelmed in a new setting, but once a person has sought out treatment, successfully gone through withdrawal and is working toward regaining control of their life, leaving early can interrupt that progress and disrupt recovery efforts.

Aftercare

Does AAC offer aftercare services?

As treatment within an AAC facility comes to an end, individuals will meet with therapists, counselors, or case managers to create an aftercare plan. An aftercare plan can help prevent relapse once a person has completed treatment and returns to everyday life. AAC’s alumni programs provide tools and support to help individuals cope with addiction and may include a support hotline, weekly/monthly sober events, in-person or telephone check-ins, and online support via social media, message boards and email.

What happens if I relapse?

It’s common for a person to relapse following drug addiction treatment. In fact, relapse rates resemble those of other chronic diseases such as asthma, diabetes and hypertension. It may happen, but it should not be viewed as a failure.7 Relapse is an opportunity to reassess you path and find the support needed to get clean once again and maintain sobriety.