How Effective is Rehab for Drug and Alcohol Addiction?

So how effective is rehab for drug and alcohol addiction? Put simply, very. Residential addiction treatment is the most effective form of drug and alcohol rehabilitation.

Drug and alcohol rehab is considered successful when the person is abstinent from drug and alcohol use, and they can manage their addictive behaviours. The person’s quality of life will improve as they are able to live their life normally and free from addiction.

How we assess how effective addiction treatment is

There are several criteria to be considered when assessing the effectiveness of addiction treatment for drugs and alcohol, including:

• Abstinence from drug and alcohol use
• Improved and sustained employment
• Higher performance in studies
• Healing relationships with friends and family
• Cessation of criminal activity
• Improved mental health
• Improved emotional state
• Improved physical health

Addiction recovery is a life-long process and unrealistic expectations can lead to frustration and feelings of defeat and hopelessness. It is important to understand that every day of sobriety and every improvement, no matter how small, constitutes a win.

How to maximise the effectiveness of addiction treatment?

Long-term recovery and behavioural changes are significantly more likely if the complete rehabilitation process is completed. This process includes:

• Medical detox – the process of removing the substance from the body and managing the acute withdrawal symptoms safely under medical supervision.
• Psychosocial education program – a range of psychological therapies, including counselling, cognitive behavioural therapy, and strategies on how to manage the person’s addiction.
• Residential treatment – a period of 30 to 60 additional days spent at a treatment facility, where the education, counselling and therapy program is continued, equipping the person with the life skills necessary to live a normal life free of drugs and alcohol.
• Transitional housing – a safe, secure, and supportive living environment designed to help the person integrate into normal life. The person is supported through regular group meetings, individual counselling sessions, and daily AA and NA meetings.
• Aftercare – support is always important for a recovering addict, so aftercare still involves regular meetings and check-ups with GPs and counsellors.

Relapse does not mean failure

Recovery is a process and, unfortunately, sometimes a relapse can occur. However, a relapse does not mean the recovery process has failed.

A relapse can occur as an isolated incident or involve several weeks of engaging in addictive behaviours. It is important to recognise the signs of relapse and act quickly.

This could involve medical detox, and readmission into residential rehab.

Even though relapse can occur, long-term recovery is possible. Recovery isn’t easy – but it’s possible

Support and help is essential

If drug and alcohol use is impacting your ability to live a fulfilling life, support and treatment is available. To find out what help is available, please get in touch.

Sources

https://www.drugabuse.gov/publications/principles-drug-addiction-treatment-research-based-guide-third-edition/frequently-asked-questions/how-effective-drug-addiction-treatment

Dr Mel Symon

Director, Hader Group QLD

Dr Mel Symon is the Director of Hader Group QLD, leading both Hader Clinic Queensland and Hader Clinic Queensland Private. With more than 30 years of experience in human services and over 20 years as a founder and business leader, Mel has played a central role in establishing and growing Queensland’s leading addiction treatment services.

Mel holds a PhD in Addiction Treatment from the University of Queensland, along with a Master of Mental Health, Master of Professional Management, and a Bachelor of Social Science. Since 2016, she has overseen the development of the 40-bed Hader Clinic Queensland residential rehabilitation program and, in 2021, the creation and opening of the 25-bed Hader Clinic Queensland Private Hospital.

Passionate about lifelong recovery, Mel is dedicated to evidence-based care, meaningful change, and supporting individuals to rebuild their lives through sustainable recovery pathways.

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