Although the cost advantage of free rehab centers is unmatched, these programs typically provide bare-bones treatment with only the most basic of services. This is especially evident when you consider the customizable treatment plans, modern facilities and vast array of luxury-hotel-like amenities that are provided at many private rehab centers. Being able to attend programs that are run by competent, compassionate, and properly trained professionals is another advantage of free rehabs. You can expect the experienced staff at free rehab centers to provide quality care, utilizing proven techniques and evidence-based behavioral therapies. Alcoholics Anonymous (AA) and other 12-step programs provide peer support for people quitting or cutting back on their drinking.

• There are many nonprofit organizations that either operate treatment centers or provide funding to centers that offer free alcohol and drug rehab programs for those in need of help.
• Research your state’s requirements for licensed and/or certified alcohol counselors and be sure each one is credentialed.
• There are many possible risk factors for alcoholism, from past trauma to social pressure.
• That’s why we provide access to holistic, science-backed alcohol treatment entirely online.

Other parts, such as counseling sessions and support groups, are crucial during and after treatment for developing your recovery plan and maintaining your sobriety. Most traditional alcohol rehab programs are for 30, 60, or 90 days. Our online alcohol treatment is flexible to your needs and goals, and the duration of treatment is unique for every individual. While experts recommend most individuals engage with treatment for the first full year of their recovery journey, you can start or stop treatment at any time.

What are possible side effects of medicines to treat alcohol use disorder?

Quitting alcohol can significantly reduce anxiety levels for many people, including ‘hangxiety’. Drinking alcohol can cause a chemical imbalance in the brain and hyperactivity in the nervous system, leading to increased anxiety. Learning more about the connection between alcohol and anxiety can help illuminate the ways in which alcohol may be affecting your mental health, and how cutting back or quitting can provide relief. By cutting back on drinking you’re also less likely to experience alcohol-related shame and guilt, which in turn can reduce anxiety.

This summary was prepared by the John M. Eisenberg Center for Clinical Decisions and Communications Science at Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX. It was written by Amelia Williamson Smith, M.S., Thomas Kosten, M.D., and Michael Fordis, M.D. People with alcohol use disorder reviewed this summary. Counseling will guide you in how to overcome strong impulses and desires to drink. Identifying triggers before they happen and becoming aware of triggers while they are happening are the first steps in managing them.

Relapse Is Part of the Process

You can also change up your treatment toolkit as your needs evolve. For example, many members start with weekly alcohol therapy, and reduce frequency to biweekly over time. The sources of funding for free rehab centers vary and may include charitable donations, private endowments and government grants. There are also certain organizations that award scholarships to people who can’t afford the cost of rehab, allowing them to receive drug and alcohol addiction treatment at private rehab centers.

For an online assessment of your drinking pattern, go to RethinkingDrinking.niaaa.nih.gov. Many people struggle with controlling their drinking at some time in their lives. More than 14 million adults ages 18 and older have alcohol use disorder (AUD), and 1 in 10 children live in a home with a parent who has a drinking problem. Sixth, make a follow-up appointment where you can meet the person face-to-face and see if your initial instinct was correct. It is also reasonable to meet once or twice before you decide whether to commit to working with the person while you develop a treatment plan together. Remember, most importantly, you are looking for someone you connect with.

Recovery Inspiration and Information for You

There is scientific evidence of changes in our brain chemistry that is linked to cravings, which is similar to addictive substances. This plays a partial role in why so many people complain of struggling with food cravings during treatment. Emotional and mental relapse will start weeks or even months before the event of physical relapse. While in treatment, you will learn the early warning signs of relapse and specific prevention techniques for each stage of relapse. Regardless of where or how you seek treatment, it’s important to look for approaches that are “evidence-based.” This means the treatments are backed by large, well-designed studies. This combination can mirror the “active ingredients” of the best specialty programs.

In addition to being provided with all treatment at no cost, you may also be compensated for your time and participation. If you are in search low-cost or free drug rehabs, there are other resources available for individuals who want to stop using drug or alcohol but cannot afford the cost of treatment. Waiting lists are a major disadvantage of free rehabilitation programs. Changing your relationship with alcohol, whether that’s through sobriety or moderation, can bring about great benefits. It can improve your physical, mental, and social wellbeing, and give you more time and energy to dedicate to what brings you joy. Changing your relationship with alcohol is something to be proud of, and you don’t have to do it alone.

About Our Addiction Specialists

The first step to treating an AUD is exploring all of your options. Check your insurance policy to see if the cost of counseling is covered. Your insurance provider may be able to give you a list of counselors within your network. However, while some insurance plans will cover all or a portion of counseling costs, others may only cover the costs for a predetermined number of sessions. How can you tell if something more serious is going on with your mental health?

For individuals with no health insurance and unable to pay the costs of drug or alcohol addiction treatment, there is the option to seek the services of a low-cost or free addiction treatment program. Online rehab is another treatment option for people who cannot cover the costs of traditional drug and alcohol rehabilitation. The fees are typically lower than those of traditional rehab programs and can vary based on the specifics of the program. Reduced fees are also available through most companies on a case-by-case basis.

A psychologist is a professionally trained mental health professional who helps patients navigate challenging life situations or mental health issues. To become a psychologist you must earn a doctoral degree; qualifying degrees include sober house a Ph.D., Psy.D. To actively practice, a psychologist must be licensed in their state and maintain good standing. Alcohol counseling and treatment centers are available in most areas, although some are more sparse than others.