Alcoholism is a chronic and progressive disease. Like other chronic diseases, relapses do happen, but the condition can be managed successfully with the help of an effective alcohol treatment program in Massachusetts. Alcohol rehab programs enable individuals to stop drinking and regain control over their lives.
In addition to helping individuals stop drinking, other goals of alcohol rehab are to help people function productively in their family, community, workplace, and social circle. However, not all treatment programs are created equal, and individual treatment outcomes often depend on the patient’s needs, whether or not those needs are met, and the extent and nature of the person’s alcoholism.[1]
Qualities of an Effective Alcohol Treatment Program
No two Massachusetts alcohol rehab programs are exactly the same. The services offered, quality of care, and therapeutic approach may vary from one facility to the next. This is because there are multiple ways to heal from alcoholism and to help patients stop drinking. Regardless of the approach used, there are several qualities that make for a successful, effective alcohol rehab program.
According to the National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA), qualities of effective treatment include:[2]
- Individualized treatment plans – Addiction treatment programs should be personalized to address each person’s needs and addiction type. Tailoring services and interventions to solve a patient’s particular problems is critical to his or her success during treatment.
- Comprehensive care – Alcoholism affects nearly every aspect of a person’s life. To allow patients to heal completely, programs must offer comprehensive care that addresses the individual’s medical, social, vocational, psychological, and legal difficulties.
- Programs lasting at least 90 days – Research has shown that the most effective recovery programs last at least 90 days (three months) and that better treatment outcomes are associated with longer durations of treatment.
- Behavioral therapies – Evidence-based therapies must be offered to address the underlying causes of alcoholism. These therapies should be held in group and individual formats.
- Medication-assisted therapy (MAT) (if needed) – Research has proven that medications, such as acamprosate and naltrexone, are effective at helping individuals stop drinking. When combined with behavioral therapy and counseling, MAT can be highly effective.
- Mental health counseling – Many patients who enter alcohol rehab have co-occurring disorders like depression or anxiety. These must be treated for a successful recovery.
Lastly, treatment should be considerate towards a person’s age, gender, ethnicity, and culture. These considerations help cultivate an environment of trust, vulnerability, and healing.
How Many People Stay Sober After Alcohol Rehab?
Unfortunately, alcoholism cannot be cured, but it can be treated and managed on a long-term basis. For some people, relapse is simply part of their journey as it allows them to learn about themselves, what didn’t work for their sobriety, and what did. Relapse does not mean treatment has failed. Rather, it means some part of a person’s recovery program needs to be altered.
Even the best alcohol treatment centers in Massachusetts see some of the most promising patients pick up a drink again. According to NIDA, relapse rates for people treated with substance use disorders are comparable to those associated with hypertension and asthma. Between 40-60% of patients who are treated for a substance use disorder relapse.[3]
Other independent studies have looked specifically at the efficacy of alcohol treatment programs in the United States. One study found that only 1 in 4 clients, on average, remained continuously abstinent. An additional 1 in 10 patients left treatment and were able to use alcohol in moderation without problems. In the remaining patients, the vast majority showed substantial improvement. They were able to reduce their overall alcohol consumption by 87% and risk for alcohol-related problems by 60%.[4] This study suggests that even if patients do consume alcohol after treatment, they do so in a safer, more controlled manner.
The Success Rate at Woburn Addiction Treatment
The clinical team at Woburn Addiction Treatment strives to offer each patient individualized, unparalleled care. Our evidence-based practices enable patients to stop drinking, improve their overall health, and get their lives back. These practices, when combined with self-help programs, are designed to increase successful outcomes in our patients. We’re extremely proud and humbled by our program completion rate that is 150% above the national average. We consider our program to be one of the most effective alcohol treatment programs in Massachusetts.
Get The Care You Need and Deserve
Woburn Addiction Treatment is a leader in the addiction treatment field, with proven success in facilitating long-term recovery. Our team of top clinical & medical experts specializes in treating addiction coupled with mental illness, ensuring that each person receives individualized care. Call us – we’re available 24/day, 7 days/week.
Find an Effective, Individualized Alcohol Treatment Program in Massachusetts Today
Overcoming alcoholism is not easy, and it takes a lot of courage to ask for help. When you call to speak with one of our admissions counselors, you will be met with compassion, understanding, and grace–because that’s what you deserve. Don’t wait any longer to get the life-changing care you deserve. Call now.
References:
- https://www.drugabuse.gov/publications/principles-drug-addiction-treatment-research-based-guide-third-edition/frequently-asked-questions/how-effective-drug-addiction-treatment
- https://www.drugabuse.gov/publications/principles-drug-addiction-treatment-research-based-guide-third-edition/principles-effective-treatment
- https://www.drugabuse.gov/publications/drugs-brains-behavior-science-addiction/treatment-recovery
- https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/11327187/
