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What Addictions Do People Go to Rehab For?

Northpoint Specialist- -

What are the most common addictions that are severe enough to necessitate addiction treatment programs? Understanding the existing drug hazards is crucial to prevention and treatment. Contact Northpoint Recovery today at 888.296.8976 to learn more about addictions people go to rehab for in Idaho and the rest of the country.

What Do People Go to Rehab For?

The Treatment Episode Data Set (TEDS) is a system maintained jointly by the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) and the Center for Behavioral Health Statistics and Quality.

Because most states only collect data on those programs that receive state or federal funding, TEDS does not reflect every single treatment admission in the country. However, it does offer an illuminating snapshot of the current situation or what addictions people go to rehab for. Let’s look at the top 10 addictions people go to rehab for, as ranked by the total number of admissions.

1. Heroin (25.7% of Treatment Admissions)

Heroin is an opioid made from morphine, a natural product of the opium poppy. After years of decline, heroin’s return to popularity is primarily driven by the prescription painkiller addiction crisis. 80% of heroin addicts self-report that they started by misusing opioid medications.

2. Alcohol (18.7% of Treatment Admissions)

Alcohol is the most commonly used—and abused—intoxicating substance worldwide. It is important to note that although alcohol abuse occurs at every age, people age 50 and up make up over 43% of alcohol-related treatment admissions.

3. Alcohol with a Secondary Drug (14.6% of Treatment Admissions)

Alcohol is considered by many to be the most significant gateway drug. In fact, among high school seniors who have used any of the top three gateway drugs—alcohol, tobacco, and marijuana—54% reported that alcohol was the first substance they had ever tried. Mixing alcohol with other drugs is extremely dangerous.

4. Marijuana (14.2% of Treatment Admissions)

With the increasingly legal status of recreational marijuana, this number is only expected to rise sharply. For some, marijuana being placed on this list may be a surprise because many people think that marijuana is not addictive. This is not the case.

5. Amphetamines (8.8% of Treatment Admissions)

This category includes methamphetamines, ecstasy, bath salts, phenmetrazine, and other drugs. Of particular relevance, methamphetamine is a growing drug threat in the United States, primarily because of Mexican drug cartels.

6. Other Opiates (8.2% of Treatment Admissions)

This category includes both the misuse of prescription opioids and the abuse of illicit synthetic opioids like:

  • Hydrocodone
  • Oxycodone
  • Hydromorphone
  • Methadone
  • Fentanyl
  • Buprenorphine
  • Codeine

Synthetic opioids are a particular concern because, in 2016, there were 21,405 deaths involving fentanyl and its analogs.

7. Cocaine (5% of Treatment Admissions)

Cocaine consumption and addiction are expected to rise sharply. The Colombian supply is now greater than at any other point in history.

8. Tranquilizers (0.9% of Treatment Admissions)

This category includes benzodiazepines, which are primarily prescribed for anti-anxiety or as sleeping aids—alprazolam (Xanax), clonazepam (Klonopin), chlordiazepoxide (Librium), diazepam (Valium), lorazepam (Ativan), etc. Benzodiazepines should never be discontinued abruptly because the withdrawal symptoms are extremely dangerous—potentially, even fatal.

9. PCP (0.3% of Treatment Admissions)

Phencyclidine (PCP), or “angel dust,” is a powerful hallucinogen that can trigger violent behavior. Although PCP is most commonly mixed with tobacco or marijuana and smoked, it can also be eaten, injected, or snorted.

10. Sedatives (0.2% of Treatment Admissions)

This category primarily consists of barbiturates such as secobarbital (Seconal), phenobarbital, pentobarbital (Nembutal), and the like. Although benzodiazepines have primarily replaced them, barbiturates are still prescribed for anxiety, insomnia, and seizures in some cases.

Reasons Why People Go to Rehab

People seek rehab for a variety of reasons, and it’s often more than just the need to stop using substances. Here are some key reasons why individuals choose rehab to address their addiction and reclaim their lives:

Loss of Control

Many people go to rehab because they’ve reached a point where their addiction is no longer something they can control. Whether it’s alcohol, drugs, or other behaviors, they realize they’ve lost the ability to stop or moderate their use, despite the negative consequences. Rehab provides a structured environment where they can regain control and start the recovery process.

Physical Dependence

For some, addiction has led to physical dependence, meaning their body has adapted to the substance or behavior and they experience withdrawal symptoms when they try to stop. Rehab offers medically supervised detoxification, ensuring the process is safe and manageable while providing professional support to ease the physical discomfort.

Emotional and Psychological Struggles

Addiction often stems from underlying emotional or psychological issues like trauma, depression, anxiety, or unresolved mental health concerns. People seek rehab to address these root causes in a therapeutic setting. By tackling both the addiction and the emotional factors, rehab offers a holistic approach to healing.

Broken Relationships

When addiction takes hold, relationships with family, friends, and colleagues can become strained or even broken. Many people enter rehab because they want to repair these relationships and reconnect with loved ones. Rehab provides the support needed to rebuild trust and strengthen bonds that addiction has damaged.

Legal or Financial Problems

For some, addiction has led to legal or financial trouble, such as arrests, loss of employment, or significant debt. Rehab can help individuals get on the path to recovery while also addressing the consequences of their addiction. For many, this is a step toward regaining their life and stability, helping them rebuild their future.

A Desire for Change

Sometimes, people seek rehab because they’ve hit rock bottom and are ready to make a significant change. This desire for a new life, free from addiction, can drive individuals to seek professional help. Rehab offers a fresh start and the tools needed to make lasting changes in their lives, providing a safe space to work through the transformation.

Types of Rehab and How to Know Which Is Right for You

When considering rehab for addiction, it’s important to understand the different types of treatment options available. Each type of rehab offers a unique approach and level of care, so choosing the right one depends on your specific needs, the severity of your addiction, and your recovery goals. Here’s an overview of the most common types of rehab and how to determine which one may be right for you:

Inpatient Rehab

Inpatient rehab involves living at a treatment facility for a set period, typically ranging from 28 to 90 days. This type of rehab offers a highly structured environment where individuals receive 24/7 care, medical supervision, and a variety of therapies. It’s ideal for those with severe addictions, co-occurring mental health issues, or those who need a safe environment away from triggers.

How to Know if it’s Right For You

Inpatient rehab is a good option if you need intensive support, are at risk of relapse, or struggle with maintaining sobriety in your current environment. It’s also helpful if you require medical detox or if you’re dealing with significant emotional or psychological challenges.

Outpatient Rehab

Outpatient rehab allows individuals to attend therapy and counseling sessions during the day but return home in the evening. This option is more flexible and allows individuals to maintain daily responsibilities, such as work or school. It may include group therapy, individual counseling, and support group meetings.

How to Know if it’s Right For You

Outpatient rehab is best for those with less severe addictions, strong support systems at home, and the ability to maintain structure and accountability outside of a treatment facility. It’s also an option for individuals who have completed inpatient rehab and want to continue their treatment on a less intensive level.

Intensive Outpatient Program (IOP)

An Intensive Outpatient Program (IOP) provides more structure than standard outpatient rehab but doesn’t require living at the facility. IOP typically involves several therapy sessions per week, including individual counseling, group therapy, and other specialized treatment, such as family therapy or trauma counseling.

How to Know if it’s Right For You

IOP is a good fit for individuals who need more support than regular outpatient care provides but are not in need of inpatient care. It’s often recommended for people who have completed inpatient treatment and want continued guidance or for those who have a strong commitment to recovery but need more intensive support than traditional outpatient therapy.

Partial Hospitalization Program (PHP)

Partial Hospitalization Programs (PHP) are a step between inpatient and outpatient care. PHP involves spending most of the day at a rehab center, engaging in therapy and medical support, but allows individuals to return home in the evenings. It’s more intensive than regular outpatient care and offers a structured environment for those who need closer supervision.

How to Know if it’s Right For You

PHP is ideal for individuals who need daily support but can manage living independently. It’s also recommended for those who have completed inpatient rehab and are transitioning back to daily life, or for those with moderate to severe addiction who don’t require 24/7 care.

Detox Programs

Detox programs focus on medically supervised withdrawal from substances, such as alcohol or drugs. These programs are designed to help individuals safely manage withdrawal symptoms in a controlled setting. Detox is often the first step in rehab before moving on to further treatment options like inpatient or outpatient care.

How to Know if it’s Right For You

Detox is essential for individuals who have a physical dependence on substances and need medical supervision to safely withdraw. It is typically the first step before entering other rehab programs.

Sober Living Homes

Sober living homes provide a supportive, substance-free environment where individuals can live as they continue their recovery. These homes offer a bridge between rehab and independent living, with a focus on maintaining sobriety while easing back into normal life. Residents are expected to follow house rules, attend support groups, and contribute to household responsibilities.

How to Know if it’s Right For You

Sober living homes are ideal for individuals who have completed rehab and need a transitional space where they can stay accountable to their recovery while adjusting to life outside of treatment. It’s a good option for those who may not feel ready to return home to an environment that could trigger relapse.

How to Choose the Right Type of Rehab

The right type of rehab for you will depend on the following factors, as well as a detailed assessment by addiction professionals who can guide you in choosing the treatment that best aligns with your needs.

  • Severity of your addiction: If your addiction is severe, inpatient or detox programs may be the best starting point. For less severe cases, outpatient or IOP may be more appropriate.
  • Support system: If you have a strong, supportive home environment, outpatient or sober living may be a good option. If your home life is chaotic or full of triggers, inpatient or PHP may be more beneficial.
  • Personal needs: Consider any co-occurring mental health issues, physical health needs, or past trauma that may require specialized care or additional support.
  • Recovery goals: Your personal goals for recovery, such as achieving complete sobriety or managing a less intense level of care, will also influence your decision.

Enroll in an Addiction Treatment Program

Contact our team at Northpoint Recovery today at 888.296.8976 to learn more about addictions people need rehab for and our top addiction treatment programs in Idaho.

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