What can I expect from a 28 day alcohol rehab program?

Question

Hi. I have been drinking heavily for a few years and have detoxed several times (both medically supervised and at home with diazepam). Now I am booked in to a 28 day program in Australia (Vic Addiction Centre.) cos I need that extra help. What can I expect from this as it's pretty scary that no mobile phones allowed, or radios and barely any contact with family etc,,,? Has anyone else done this before?

Answer 1

Ben, I applaud you on your decision to do alcohol rehab. I just completed a rehab stint myself in January. I can't tell you what to expect from a program in Australia, as all programs differ in their approach to the problem. What I can tell you, is about the program I went through.

This program consisted of getting up in the morning, showering, shaving, etc. Having breakfast, cleaning the building (having a specific area of responsibility). At 10:00 am was the first class of the day.

Classes (about 7 a day) lasted all day, each and every day, weekends included. The whole program is designed to give you tools and information as to the causes, effects and inevitable outcome of addictions. they also give you an insight into what makes you tick, what triggers one into making that move into a bottle or whatever the substance of choice is. With all the information thrown at you in a relatively short amount of time, you kind of forget about your need to get high and concentrate more on reconnecting with the REAL you!

The person you were before you became addicted. It's actually quite an eye opening, refreshing experience; one I hope you also get to experience.

Of course you also get lunch and dinner, but the classes go on and on!

Being in a group setting helps as well because with 20 to 30 other people around you in the same boat, you have the chance to talk with them and relate to their experiences and to voice yours. You can draw off of their strengths and help them back by imparting your own, and in essence help each other.

I hope any of MY experience with might be informative to you and encourage you to pursue your choice to be sober. I wish you the best of luck.