This rehabilitation unit information has been prepared under the supervision of Consultant Addiction Psychiatrist Dr Bruce Trathen MBBS MRCPsych, and Senior Addictions Therapist David Goodlad FRSPH MA Dip. MBACP (Snr. Accred) UKRC NCAC CADC.

Accessing reliable and accurate rehabilitation unit information can be confusing and time consuming. Triage Advisors are here to help you make fully informed and accurate decisions. Call 0800 246 5293.

What is a rehabilitation unit?

A rehabilitation unit is where someone can access treatment and support to address both the physical and psychological side of their dependence.

A rehabilitation unit can treat dependence to substances such as alcohol, heroin, cocaine, cannabis and prescription drugs. In some cases they can help address other problems such as anxiety, depression or eating disorders.

When should someone seek a rehabilitation unit?

For some the withdrawal symptoms experienced may indicate the need for treatment in a rehabilitation unit. Withdrawal symptoms can be physical such as sweating, shaking, and vomiting, or psychological such as intensely obsessing about a substance, depression or anxiety.

Types of Rehabilitation Unit Available

In some cases a rehabilitation unit will specialise in one form of addiction, e.g. alcohol, although most cater for both drug and alcohol addictions. 

The type of rehabilitation unit may also differ in its treatment programme and approach. Most clinics offer a treatment programme based on the 12 step approach, and many have additional therapies as part of the tailored treatment plan. This may include holistic therapies, cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT), motivational interviewing, and more.

Private Rehabilitation Units in the UK

A rehabilitation unit can be accessed privately in the UK. Treatment will aim to address all aspects of the dependence through psychological, educational and social therapy, and a fully medicated detox where required. The benefit of a rehabilitation unit is that it offers a more intensive approach, and removes individuals from the home environment where they may be surrounded by  the associations and triggers to relapse.

Private Rehabilitation Units overseas

It is also possible to access a private rehabilitation unit overseas. This option can be particularly appealing to those individuals who have already accessed rehab in the UK with limited success and want to be completely removed from their problematic surroundings. Overseas treatment can also represent better value for money in some cases.

“Free” NHS or Private Rehabilitation Unit

A rehabilitation unit can often be difficult to access via the NHS; typical experiences are of long waiting lists as funding for this type of treatment is limited.  When granted, statutory funding typically covers a 12 week treatment programme.

In most cases, forms of outpatient treatment will be offered such as counselling, day programmes and support groups. This form of treatment is usually less intensive. Also, it usually caters for individuals with a less severe dependence, therefore it may not be as effective for those with a heavy, long standing addiction (National Addiction Centre, 2001).

How long could a stay in a Rehabilitation Unit take?

The length of stay in treatment can vary depending on the severity of the dependence, the situation, and the substance being taken. Typically programmes vary between 4 and 12 weeks, although completion of the entire treatment planned and an attitude of ‘seeing it through’ is central to effectiveness (Trathen et al, 2008).

How much does a of Rehabilitation Unit cost?

The cost of treatment can vary depending on the residential unit, duration of treatment and after-care arranged. Triage Healthcare recognises that there is a deficit in the provision of affordable private treatment for addictions in the UK. We can offer advice and access to best-value private rehab for those with a limited budget.

Where to find a Drug or Alcohol Rehab Program in the UK

Triage Healthcare works alongside a number of specialist treatment centres for immediate access to a residential unit, and regulates the standard of service provided on behalf its partners and ensures they are registered with the appropriate professional bodies.

We understand that there may be concerns regarding treatment, particularly in terms of cost, location and success. That is why we are here. By choosing to call us today you will be provided with the personal care and support of our qualified alcohol and addiction advisors whose aim is to provide you with confidential and reliable advice regarding all areas of addiction. Call 0845 888 4444for free, confidential advice.

 References

Gossop, Marsden and Stewart, D. (2001). NTORS after five years (National Treatment Outcome Research Study):Changes in substance use, health and criminal behaviour in the five years after intake. National Addiction Centre. Sourced at http://www.dh.gov.uk/en/Publicationsandstatistics/Publications/PublicationsPolicyAndGuidance/DH_4084908

Trathen et al (2008). Guidelines for the best practice treatment of Substance Misuse. Triage Healthcare: Canterbury, UK.