Drug and alcohol rehab is a structured program designed to help people who are struggling with substance use disorders—whether it’s addiction to drugs, alcohol, or both. The goal of rehab is to help individuals stop using substances, address the underlying issues that led to their addiction, and build the skills needed to live a healthier, substance-free life.

Rehab programs vary depending on the person’s needs, but generally include:

• Assessment and Evaluation – Before starting rehab, individuals undergo a thorough assessment to understand the severity of their addiction, any co-occurring mental health issues (like depression or anxiety), and their physical health. This helps create a personalised treatment plan.
• Detoxification (Detox) – for many, the first step is detox, which involves clearing the body of drugs or alcohol. Medical supervision is often provided to ensure safety and comfort.
• Therapy and Counseling – Therapy is the heart of rehab. It helps individuals understand the root causes of their addiction, develop coping strategies, and learn how to avoid relapse. Common types of therapy include individual therapy and group therapy (sessions with others in recovery to share experiences and support each other).
• Education – Rehab programs often include educational sessions about addiction, its effects on the brain and body, and how to manage triggers and cravings.
• Skill-Building – Rehab teaches practical life skills, such as stress management, communication, and problem-solving, to help individuals handle challenges without turning to substances.
• Aftercare Planning – Recovery doesn’t end when rehab does. Aftercare planning ensures individuals have ongoing support, such as outpatient therapy, support groups (like Alcoholics Anonymous or Narcotics Anonymous), or sober living arrangements.

Family Involvement

Involving family in the rehab process can be incredibly powerful and often plays a key role in the success of recovery. Addiction doesn’t just affect the individual—it impacts the entire family. By including family members in the rehab process, everyone gets the opportunity to heal, rebuild trust, and create a stronger support system for the future.

Research shows that when families are involved in the rehab process, the person in recovery is more likely to stay engaged in treatment and maintain long-term sobriety. Family support can provide motivation, accountability, and encouragement during challenging times.

Many families don’t fully understand addiction as a disease. Rehab programs often include educational sessions to help family members learn about the science of addiction and how it affects the brain, the recovery process, what to expect, how to set healthy boundaries, how to avoid enabling behaviours and how to create a stable, substance-free home environment.

Recovery doesn’t end when rehab does—it’s an ongoing process. When families are involved, they become part of the support system that helps their loved one stay on track.

Rehab is for anyone who feels trapped by their substance use and wants to make a change. Rehab is most effective when the person chooses to go on their own.

If you’re a family member and require support, contact your local hospital-based SUD program here or 1098 to be connected to a clinical counsellor.

The first step is to contact your local hospital-based SUD program here to either engage with outpatient treatment or speak to someone about the best option for residential care.

Alternatively you can call 1098 to speak to a Phone Support Worker.