The state of North Carolina is seen as being susceptible to increased drug and alcohol use. This is the result of a combination of several factors including the presence of more than 50 colleges in the state. The resultant spin-off is clubs and bars where alcohol flows freely and drugs become readily available. Becoming increasingly popular are the so-called “club drugs.” These are MDMA, GHB and LSD. Gradually becoming more of a problem are Crystal Meth and prescription drugs. These ensure that rehab centers in North Carolina are viewed as a necessity and not an option.
Yet, while the statistics for such drugs as marijuana and cocaine are high, the drug of choice is actually alcohol, according to government statistics from 2005. When an individual combines drinking with drugs, it takes the entire potential for addiction and risk-taking behavior to an entirely new level. In 2007 alone, 1,125 people died in drugs and alcohol related incidents. This makes it essential to addicts to find among the rehab centers in North Carolina, one suitable to his or her need.
Taking the First Steps
While it may not be difficult to locate a treatment center, the issue is how to ascertain its appropriateness. This can be stressful and present a formidable task to an addict and/or family and friends. The first thing anyone needs to do is to compile a basic list of rehab centers in North Carolina. Consider the options carefully by accessing their information online. Be sure to gather information on such things as:
- Location
- Availability
- Focus – drugs, alcohol, both or only specific drugs
- Programs
- Costs of treatment
- Reputation
Once you have the pertinent information, sit down as a group and discuss what is required and which places appear to fulfill the basic needs. During this process, some rehab centers will be removed from the list. You will reject some because of location and cost and even out of a feeling this is not the right program.
Considering Rehab Centers in North Carolina
Following this, you need to prepare a short list. It will take into consideration other aspects of each candidate. The focus should be on approaches. This includes:
- Types of therapy and/or treatment – what approach does the treatment center take? Is it holistic or conventional? Is it suitable?
- How many doctors, therapists, counselors, psychologists and other professional people do they have on staff?
- Are all members certified, qualified, registered, experienced and/or members of accredited organizations and/or associations?
- Success Rate – What is it? Is it broken down into various categories? Does your addiction fit into one of these categories?
- How long is the recommended stay for your treatment? How does this compare with what you know about your addiction?
- Does the clinic also offer long-term, outpatient care and/or support?
- Are they up front with all costs?
- What type of living arrangements do they have? Are their dorms or private rooms?
- Does the rehab center offer activities and have facilities such as a pool, gym, library, conference hall, lounge, etc?
- How long has it been in operation?
To obtain the answers to many of these questions will require research. You will have to talk to your own medical professional as well as local professionals in the field of addiction. It also helps if you can go to visit several of the rehab centers in North Carolina to get a feel for an understanding of how it operates. After doing this, you can then make an informed decision of whether this is the treatment center for you.
