Some substance abuse treatment facilities specialize in what they provide. They may work only with one type of patient. They may offer services in a specific way such as inpatient. Or they may be associated with a particular religion or philosophical group.

People often think that they need to find a place that works specifically with their problem. If they are dependent on alcohol, they may want a facility that specializes in working with this type of patient. Those with prescription drug problems may search for a place that specifically states it works with these patients. Using a specialized facility is something many patients have success with but most facilities work with a variety of patients. Part of the reason is that chemical dependency shares specific characteristics no matter what substance is used. The second part is that many people need help with more than one issue.

Some people will need the services of inpatient substance abuse treatment facilities. These are the types where people stay for a period of time such as a week or months. There are people who need to be away from their daily lives in order to attain recovery and this can be a suitable option for them. Most people will opt to use outpatient services for a variety of reasons. This tends to cause less disruption overall to normal life. With most people having a job and possibly a partner or family, this type of treatment takes them away only part of the time.

Those who are considering treatment can find services several different ways. It is not uncommon for people to go to their employers EAP, or employee assistance program, to take the first step. Most human resources departments have this system and it is anonymous so people do not have to worry about others learning about their participation. This system helps people to access resources that their insurance carrier will pay for.

Others may turn to some type of facility locator. There are ones that are operated by the US Department of Health and Human Services as well as one that use generic search terms. Many facilities advertise on TV, radio and in various publications. People can contact them to get more information to find out about insurance coverage, time commitment required or other things they want to know more about.

Loved ones and concerned friends who are trying to find services for others need to be aware that this type of “help” usually does not work. Unless a person is ready to commit to treatment, getting them to go is not usually helpful. They will likely stop treatment or will not follow through with what they need to do to recover. Substance abuse treatment facilities are only useful to people who want to use them correctly.