PROGRAM
What happens in alcohol rehab programs has changed dramatically over the past 75 years. As recently as 1930, alcoholics were generally considered untreatable.
They had few choices. Some relied on rigid commitment to religion, coupled with strict self-control. Some sought help through the relatively new science of psychiatry, although even Sigmund Freud believed that most alcoholics were hopeless causes. Others found themselves committed to sanitariums or asylums, because their drinking had caused irreparable brain damage. These patients were often referred to as “wet brains,” and were certifiably insane as a result of the systemic damage alcohol abuse had caused.
Then a miracle occurred during a meeting between two drunks in Akron, Ohio.
In 1935, two hopeless alcoholics found that, by helping each other, they were able to maintain sobriety. As a result of this meeting and the friendship that developed, these men sparked what would one day become Alcoholics Anonymous.
The principles developed by Bill Wilson and Dr. Bob Smith (known to those in A.A. as “Bill W.” and “Dr. Bob”) radically changed the way alcoholism was treated from that day forward. They determined that alcoholism was a disease without a cure. But with appropriate treatment, the disease could be kept in remission indefinitely.
Drawing from their own experience, the men also realized that only those who had a personal experience with alcoholism could truly reach another alcoholic through the haze of drunkenness. The pleadings of a parent, child or spouse wouldn’t work. The threats of an employer couldn’t sink in. But when one alcoholic met with another and shared “experience, strength and hope,” sobriety became a possibility.
Today’s alcohol rehab programs follow this example, using trained, professional counselors (usually people with years of personal sobriety) to work with patients individually, from the moment they enter the rehab facility.
Initially, the counselor and the new patient meet to discuss the patient’s circumstances. Then a personal recovery plan is developed as a cooperative effort. Most rehab programs believe patients should have a hand in planning how they get well. Alcoholics can be notoriously stubborn and strong-willed. But they’re more likely to follow a plan if they helped put it together.
The programs available at most rehab facilities include group and individual counseling, stress management and coping skills training, relapse prevention strategies, health management and nutritional guidance. Some programs also offer instruction in relaxation and meditation techniques, along with a wide variety of recreational activities.
For more information about alcohol rehab programs, or to find one in your area, please call and speak with one of our counselors. Dial (800) 344-8794 now.