The road to recovery is tough. Getting there is tougher.
Rehabilitation facilities are imagined as sterile spaces with a utilitarian design, almost like a mix between a mental facility and a jail. As if the space itself is telling the patient that he or she is not worthy of the good things life has to offer, so far from the word “rehabilitate”. It clings to the old notion that addiction is not a chronic illness. The image does not match with the idea of restoring someone life, of getting a restart.
Nowadays, rehabilitation facilities are designed to be a sanctuary. From the structure to the landscape that surrounds it, the place emits a welcoming, safe, and encouraging atmosphere. Every detail, such as the layout and interior design, is curated to aid the patients in accomplishing their goal to get better.
By providing a safe haven from the difficult past of drug and alcohol abuse, patients can see that things can get better by having a firsthand experience of such a life while in rehab. Treating them with kindness and respect will give them the chance to reflect internally and see that they are still worthy of a chance in life.
One rehab facility in Pocatello takes advantage of Idaho’s rich natural landscape. The upscale rehab facility is surrounded by trees while providing a picturesque view of the mountains. Patients immerse in the nature around them through tailor-made outdoor activities like fishing and hiking.
The treatments now focus on the holistic wellness of patients. On top of the scientific approach in battling addiction, activities that encourage mental and emotional health are also being utilized.
Rehab is a journey. Traveling for rehab- whether it is from one city to another, or one state to another state- is the literal manifestation of the journey to reach sobriety. It allows the patients to have a mindset of moving from Point A to Point B. The change of scenery prepares the mind for further changes, in forgetting a routine from the past. It is a welcomed change, similar to the respite that one gets during a vacation.
Creating a distance between the patient and his or her triggers will not only strengthen their commitment to getting better, but it will also increase the chances of the patient into reaching the end of the program. A patient cannot choose to leave the facility spontaneously because he or she cannot make the journey back in an instant. In addition, the stigma that comes with substance abuse can affect a person’s role in society and the professional world. Traveling to a facility that is away from where life will eventually resume gives the patient privacy. The patient can focus on the treatment program than the probable judgment from strangers and colleagues at work.
Despite the leftover stigma, the overall perception of substance abuse has improved over the years. Treatment for substance abuse has come a long way, too. Today’s environment is less confined. Patients are encouraged to be outside and see the beauty around.
Withdrawal is physically, mentally, and spiritually demanding. Like any other illness, getting better requires comfort, encouragement, and inspiration. By witnessing how the world fairly offers itself to all people, it’s difficult not to feel changed.
