Christian Rehab

There is no one size fits all solution to addiction. For some, a 12-step program is the best fit. For others, these programs are too generic. Often, faith plays a huge role in the recovery process. For that reason, Christian rehab centers are a great option for these struggling addicts.

Eschewing the 12-Step Model

Unlike most other rehab programs, most Christian-based programs do not follow the 12-step model. Although they don’t actively oppose them, they try to remain neutral on the topic. In the end, they believe that the only thing that matters is God. Through Him all things are possible!

Types of Christian Rehab Programs

Christian rehab programs are available in many different forms. The traditional inpatient program is often the best option. In these programs the addict lives at the rehab center for a period of 30 to 90 days while they get clean and learn skills to help them stay clean. After this, most programs involve extensive follow-up. These are by far the most successful type of Christian Rehab Program.

Christian-Drug-Rehab-Program

Christian rehab programs can help you recover with the strength of your faith.

Another, less common, form of Christian rehab is an outpatient, or partial hospitalization, program. In these programs, the addict does not live in the rehab center. Instead, they work with a therapist, in group therapy sessions and develop skills during the day but sleep at home. The frequency of the visits, and the success of the program, depends on both the addict and the program.

The least common form of Christian rehab program is the Internet-based rehab programs. Internet-based rehab is the newest form of rehab program. Without face-to-face interaction and accountability, these programs are the least successful type of Christian rehab program.

By far, the biggest indicator that a program will work is that the addict is ready to change. They must be ready to turn their life completely around. Unfortunately, there must also be hard work on both the part of the addict and the staff in the chosen program. Regardless of the type of program, they all follow the same basic steps.

Step 1: Detox

For all types of rehab, the first step is detoxification. In an inpatient, and for most partial hospitalization or outpatient programs, this is done on site with support personnel ready to handle the side effects that come with getting clean. In an Internet-based program, the addict is on their own to deal with these potentially deadly effects.

Medications as well as herbs and other forms of alternative medicine are used to lessen these effects. Vital signs are monitored Depending on the drug, the amount of tolerance and how long it was abused, this can last anywhere from a few days to a month or longer.

Step 2: Treatment

The next step involves intensive counseling and skill-building. In many programs, meditation, yoga and physical exercise are stressed. Intensive spiritual guidance and counseling are also integral parts of the rehabilitation program. Group therapy, bible studies and prayer meetings round out the spiritual and psychological aspects of this step.

Educational goals, including the presentation of information on chemical dependency and the physical affects drugs have on the body, are also included. Learning skills for getting and keeping employment and planning for the future are also important. Learning the life skills necessary to care for oneself as well as deal with the daily temptations of being an addict in recovery are also an essential part of these programs.

In both inpatient and outpatient programs, these goals are accomplished in the clinical setting. For Internet-based programs, these goals are set and accomplished in the community via daily email contact with a mentor or therapist. This phase can last anywhere from 90 days to a year.

Step 3: Reintegration and Follow-Up

The final phase is only applicable to inpatient clients. This phase involves the reintegration into community-based living. It often involves obtaining sober housing and continued follow-up with the counselors and spiritual leaders in the rehab setting. Recovering addicts are encouraged to find a local church and other community-based supports.

The final piece of the puzzle is ensuring that all factors that led to addiction are changed. For addicts with psychiatric issues, this means proper medication as well as therapy and other supports. For those with chronic pain, pain management strategies need to take into account both the addiction and the source of the pain. Friends and hang-outs also need to change.

If you, or someone you love, needs help, consider a faith-based Christian alternative. No matter what the addiction, there is help available. When everything else has failed, God can still mend the broken.