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When someone is in the throes of an overwhelming and powerful health condition like addiction to drugs or alcohol, it’s only natural that they want to overcome it as quickly and painlessly as possible. Unfortunately, many unethical organizations exploit this desire, promising quick fixes based on therapies that don’t work; and, unfortunately, rehab scams are not unheard of in the U.S..
Because there are multiple paths to addiction recovery, some based on effective alternative treatments, various addiction treatment centers promise fast recovery times and addiction cures. When these therapies don’t work (because they are not based on good science or compelling clinical evidence), they leave those who already are suffering from additional scars and mistrust for therapists in general.
Of course, it’s unethical to take advantage of people who are suffering from a chronic health condition. It’s also unfair to promise an overnight recovery, given what modern science knows about substance addiction. Rehabs that advertise cutting-edge treatments or innovative solutions know how enticing these promises will appear to people who are searching for help–who are often desperate for help. But such therapies are unproven and, often, ineffective in helping people manage their addiction for any substantial length of time.
When quack therapies don’t work, it’s time to rely on medically sound, evidence-based addiction treatment. Recovering from addiction takes time and hard work. Addiction is a multi-type disease that involves clear physical, emotional, and behavioral aspects. There is no quick-fix cure.
The key to avoiding rehab scams that make unfair promises is to enroll in renowned, high-quality treatment programs based on tried-and-true therapies and interventions. There are many treatment paths to lasting recovery from addiction that have been forged through research and compelling evidence. To achieve successful long-term recovery, stay on these paths and avoid addiction treatment scams.
Do Quick-Fix Therapies Work?
First, it’s important to understand there are many variables associated with a person’s time frame for recovery. Some people progress through treatment more quickly than others and find it easier to manage their addiction than others. It’s also true that sometimes a person will respond to a type of therapy quite well, and that therapy may, indeed, speed up their recovery. However, detox scams promise ultra-fast recovery but only address the physical aspect of addiction. This leaves clients with emotionally stunted growth because it ignores the need to treat the psychological and behavioral aspects of addiction.
Therapies that don’t address each aspect of substance addiction leave people extremely vulnerable to relapse. Even with the best-quality treatment, relapse is possible, but these ineffectual treatments do not lay the groundwork for a strong recovery foundation. Beware of rehabs that over-promise a speedy recovery.
What Does Research Say about Therapy?
Fortunately, addiction medicine and therapy have come a long way in recent decades. Clinicians have a much greater understanding of how drug and alcohol addiction affects the brain and body. For instance, they know that addictive substances change the chemistry of the brain, leaving the individual feeling compelled to use despite the negative consequences for their health and other important aspects of their life.
The most effective treatments for addiction are evidence-based. These methods of therapy have been studied by credentialed scientists and have the data to back up their claims. Some evidence-based treatments include medical detox, cognitive behavioral therapy, and peer group counseling. However, one treatment alone isn’t likely to prevent relapse. For instance, detox only addresses a person’s physical dependence on drugs or alcohol. It doesn’t affect their mental dependence, which is often just as powerful as the physical aspects of this condition. Addiction is a multi-dimensional disease that demands a multidisciplinary treatment approach. For treatment to work, it must address each aspect of this disease.
The medical community and associated government agencies have listed efficacy standards for specific treatments such as medication-assisted treatment (MAT), which is now commonly used in opioid addiction treatment. Meanwhile, there is much ongoing research and a wide range of alternative and holistic treatments that can complement evidence-based therapies.
It’s also important to note that there will always be “new” therapies for any number of health conditions. But, it’s best to remain skeptical until these therapies can be proven with supportive data.
Tips to Identify “Quack” Therapies
There are ways to identify quack therapies and poor-quality rehabs. First, it’s always essential to research a rehab before enrolling in its programs. Begin with the rehab’s website. Does it provide concrete details about its treatments or does it rely merely on nebulous or slick marketing hype? Quality rehabs are not afraid to discuss their treatment programs in detail.
Next, determine the extent of the treatment center’s online presence. Do they own multiple digital properties like their website and social media platforms? Are they referenced substantially online or is digital information about the rehab and its programs scarce? People should remain skeptical about rehabs that are not well-known and should look for third-party review sites that provide information about the rehab in question.
Finally, who is delivering this treatment? Does the rehab provide the credentials of its therapists? Are they licensed and certified? What legitimate medical licensing does the rehab have? Be skeptical of counselors and therapists who do not have the proper credentials to provide addiction treatment services.
Rely on High-Quality Treatment Programs and Rehabs
FHE Health relies on high-quality, evidence-based treatments to help clients manage their addiction and achieve lasting recovery. We deliver personalized, medically integrated treatment for people suffering from any form of substance addiction. Our doctors and therapists are highly trained and licensed. FHE Health is licensed by the Agency for Healthcare Administration (AHCA) and the Department of Children and Families (DCF). We are members of the National Association of Addiction Treatment Providers (NAATP) and accredited by the JOINT Commission and Commission of Accreditation of Rehabilitation Facilities (CARF).
We invite anyone affected by addiction or other mental health issues to explore our site and find out about the specific treatment programs we offer. Our doctors, clinicians, and other addiction specialists can help those just starting their recovery journey, as well as those in need of aftercare solutions that will help them maintain long-term sobriety.
Don’t wait to seek treatment if you’re suffering from a drug or alcohol problem. The threat of overdose is always present, and the risks to health are real and pressing. That said, be wary of rehabs promising quick fixes. Recovery takes time and hard work because it involves making substantial life changes. We provide clients with the tools, strategies, and resources they need to manage their addiction successfully and safeguard their health and future.
