Traveling for Rehab

Why Does the Location of an Addiction Treatment Center Matter?

The setting and natural surroundings of the substance abuse treatment center you choose can make a major difference in your recovery. Addiction can make you depressed, anxious, isolated, and lonely, but choosing a drug and alcohol rehab center in the right location can help you overcome these feelings.

Many people travel to Southern California to rehab because of the beautiful scenery, sunny skies, and warm climate. Being close to the beach and waking up to scenic views can lift your spirits and enhance your treatment experience. Not only that, but Orange County is home to an active, engaged recovery community, so you can find support and make sober friends who can help guide you in your recovery journey.

Choosing a location far away from home for rehab can remove temptations and allow you an opportunity to escape the chaos at home to fully focus on your recovery. Where you choose to go to rehab is also a matter of your personal lifestyle preferences and priorities.

Who Should Travel for Rehab?

Making the decision to get help for your addiction is the first step in achieving sobriety, but choosing where you will get help is one of the most important steps. The location of the rehab center you attend can make or break your recovery, so it’s vital to choose wisely. For many people, getting away from drug dealers, toxic relationships, and triggering environments can greatly enhance their experience in recovery, but for others, being close to family and friends is non-negotiable.

Long-distance rehab may be right for you if you:

  • Have been to rehab before but you always leave early to get high or see old friends
  • Don’t have adequate treatment options in your area
  • Need to get away from a toxic or abusive relationship
  • Desire a fresh start and a clean slate

Deciding if you should travel for treatment is a highly personal decision that only you can make, but you should consider the different ways you can benefit from getting treatment out-of-state.

traveling for rehab

Benefits of Traveling for Rehab

There are many benefits of traveling for addiction treatment instead of receiving treatment at a local rehab. A new location can provide you with the space and privacy you need to recover from addiction. Being away from home can give you a sense of “starting over” or “getting a fresh start,” which can motivate you on your recovery journey. Traveling and seeking treatment somewhere new resets your mind and body, helping you feel more inspired or committed to the idea of sobriety.

You may find that it is easier to break a bad habit when you are far away from people, places, and things that trigger the desire to use drugs or alcohol. While it’s true that you can get sober anywhere if you get treatment and stay dedicated to your recovery, it may not be as difficult when you have distance between you and your triggers. For many people, distance from home is a very positive thing.

Being willing to travel for rehab also opens the door to more high-quality treatment options. If you don’t have a reputable rehab center in your hometown, going to a local rehab could mean receiving poor care that eventually results in relapse. However, if you are willing to travel or go out of state, you can choose from some of the best addiction treatment centers in the nation instead of settling for a low-quality program. For example, residential treatment centers in California utilize a 6-bed model, only treating six clients at a time. This type of exclusive, highly-focused care cannot be found everywhere.

An essential component of successful treatment is staying in treatment and completing your rehab program. Clients who leave rehab early or against medical advice (AMA) are at high risk for relapse. People who travel outside of their home state for rehab are significantly less likely to leave treatment early and much more likely to finish their treatment program. This paves the way for more positive treatment outcomes.

How to Choose a Drug and Alcohol Rehab Center Remotely

Once you’ve made the decision that traveling for rehab is right for you, you need to look for a trustworthy, reputable treatment center to attend. Since cost is also an important factor, consider looking at long-distance rehab facilities that are in-network with your insurance. Insurance covers at least part of your treatment and the rest can be paid out of pocket or financed.

Additional steps to take when choosing a rehab center remotely include:

  • Consult with your primary care physician or therapist to see if they have any recommendations for a program that will meet your needs.
  • Learn about the different types of programs available, such as inpatient or outpatient, and figure out which one is best for you.
  • Assess the facility’s credentials. One way to ensure safe and effective treatment is to look for a Joint Commission-accredited rehab facility.
  • Speak with an admissions coordinator about your needs and any questions you may have. They can help you choose the right program for you.

Sheer Recovery is a Joint Commission-accredited addiction treatment center located in sunny Orange County, California. Many of our clients travel to us to receive evidence-based, individually-tailored care in a private, luxury setting. Our admissions team is available 24/7 to verify your insurance, evaluate your treatment needs, and help you start your recovery journey. We guarantee you will feel confident in your decision in choosing Sheer Recovery for long-distance rehab.

packing a suitcase to go to rehab

Arranging Travel and Preparing for Long-Distance Rehab

Although treatment is covered by insurance, costs associated with travel are not. An admissions counselor may be able to help you secure plane tickets or make other travel arrangements, but you may be responsible for paying for your travel.

If you are flying to California for rehab, try to purchase a direct flight ticket. Layovers can add time and unnecessary stress to your travels, and the sooner you arrive at treatment, the sooner you can get relief.

In addition to making travel arrangements, there are other steps you may want to take to prepare.

  • Set up automatic bill pay on any bills you have
  • Arrange childcare or petcare, if needed
  • Pack appropriately for the weather
  • Be sure to take essentials such as medications, your insurance card, a form of payment, and your ID
  • Talk to your employer about taking time off work or using the Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA) to go to rehab

Staying Connected to Family While Far Away for Rehab

The main concern people have when traveling for addiction treatment is being so far away from the people they love. However, it’s important to remember that rehab is temporary, and you can return home once you are healthy again.

During your stay, you will be allowed to call your loved ones and write them letters. If your loved ones are willing to travel, they may be able to come to visit you or participate in a family therapy session with you. Just because you are far away doesn’t mean you can’t stay connected with the people who matter most.

Be sure to write down the contact information of anyone you may want to keep in touch with during treatment because your cell phone may be turned in upon intake.

Start Your Recovery Today

Many people who travel for rehab successfully complete treatment and remain sober afterward. Starting your recovery in a new environment is guaranteed to give you the space and time you need to heal.

At Sheer Recovery, the safety and well-being of our clients are our top priority. We work closely with our clients and their loved ones to ensure they are receiving the highest quality care. You can feel confident in choosing Sheer Recovery for long-distance addiction treatment.

If you or a loved one are struggling with addiction, help is available. Call today to speak with a team member to see if our Orange County, California addiction treatment center is right for you.

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