Cocaine addiction can be one of the most severe stimulant addictions. If you or a loved one is suffering from addiction to cocaine, finding a quality rehab facility is the best chance for long-term recovery. Knowing what to expect and what to look for among the various types of rehab treatment centers can make the process easier as well.

The Phases of Cocaine Rehab

The first phase of cocaine rehab is the detox phase. Detox actually begins immediately after the last instance of cocaine abuse. As soon as the euphoric effects of the drugs wear off, the addict will begin feeling the effects of withdrawal. These are generally mild in the beginning, mostly consisting of a craving for more drugs.

As the hours go by, however, the body will begin to exhibit more signs and symptoms of withdrawal, including tremors, mood swings and nausea. When an individual decides to enter recovery, the symptoms can be mitigated with medications provided to the recovering addict under the care of a professional medical provider.

The detox phase of recovery can last from a few days to several weeks, depending upon the severity of the addiction. Typically, the detox phase will not last more than one week for most individuals addicted to cocaine. Detox is not a treatment by itself. If it is not followed by an extended treatment program, the addict is likely to return to using drugs almost immediately.

After the detox phase is complete, treatment will begin in earnest. There are two types of treatment programs available for cocaine addiction. The first is an inpatient program in either a medical or residential treatment center. An inpatient program allows the recovering cocaine addict to focus solely on their recovery without the burden of outside temptations or responsibilities.

The other type of cocaine rehab is an outpatient therapy. This is a great program for individuals who are the sole wage-earners in a family or who might have children they need to care for while they undergo treatment.

Both of these options can provide rehab in the form of Cognitive Behavior Therapy (CBT). CBT is a treatment model designed as a partnership between the recovering addict and their counselor or counselors. The process involves active participation of all parties involved. The recovering addict will complete homework assignments that consist of self-assessments and other written work while participating in private and group therapy sessions.

Outpatient treatment is designed on a 16-week schedule. Inpatient facilities will recommend a stay of no less than three months, on average. Both programs can be extended if the recovering addict and the counselors agree the extension will help the overall outcome.

The final stage of the recovery process is the support phase. Once active treatment has been completed in either an inpatient or outpatient setting, the recovering addict will begin a strict schedule of aftercare support group meetings and recovery practices.

Expectations for Recovery

For many individuals who are addicted to cocaine, the prospect of living a sober lifestyle may seem out of reach. The unfortunate fact is that many people addicted to cocaine or other drugs may successfully complete rehab only to succumb to their addictions at a later time. However, there are others who complete recovery and remain drug-free for the rest of their lives.

The chances of maintaining sobriety depend somewhat on the environments to which the recovering addicts return. If it is not possible to live in a sober living home, it is important that the recovering cocaine addict not return to the same overall environment they were in prior to entering treatment.

Instead of participating in the same social circles and returning to same routines, consider making a few changes to alleviate the risk of relapse. For instance:

• Take a new route to work to avoid neighborhoods where drugs were purchased in the past.
• Spend social time with new friends in sober environments, such a dry bowling league or softball team.
• Speak to family and close friends so they are assured of your desires to remain in recovery.
• Eliminate destinations that are common places for drug use, such as night clubs or taverns.

Finding the Best Rehab Center

Individuals looking for the best possible cocaine rehab should consider several factors before making a final decision. Many residential treatment facilities will offer luxury accommodations to help create a peaceful environment for healing. There are a few questions you may want to ask to make sure you find the right facility for you:

• What kinds of alternative therapies are available to help with withdrawal symptoms and pain?
• What are the expectations for resident participation in group sessions or social activities?
• What is the policy concerning parental visitation if the recovering addict is a child?
• Will the facility bill insurance on behalf of the resident?
• How long does the inpatient program last and is there a policy that will allow a recovering addict to return to treatment should the need arise at a later date?

When you visit the facility, make sure to look for a few basic principles, such as cleanliness and attitudes among the staff. Does the staff seem happy and cheerful, or are they frustrated and disgruntled due to stress or overwork? If you have the opportunity to meet any of the residents, are they well adjusted and pleasant?

The grounds of a residential drug rehab are also important. Part of the recovery process may include meditation and other activities meant to bring peace of mind and body. Are the recreational areas well kept with views that induce a feeling of calm?

Cocaine rehab does not need to be a frightening process. The very best rehab centers will have an aura of calm and tranquility with plenty of comforts to make each resident feel completely at home. Recovery from cocaine addiction is hard work, so choosing the best possible program is an important first step.