The word “luxury” is frequently used by drug and alcohol rehab centers, but what does it actually mean? And how do you filter out facilities that are luxury in name only?
What is luxury rehab?
The defining characteristics of a luxury rehab are:
- Comfort: your treatment will be in a modern plush facility. You should expect, and demand, a private single en-suite bedroom with a private bathroom. High-end rehabs that offer detox programs should also have a physician experienced with detox who can prescribe so-called comfort medication to ease any withdrawal symptoms during your first days in treatment.
- Privacy & Confidentiality: luxury rehabs are the preferred choice for executive professionals, athletes, celebrities and others who are in the public eye. These facilities are used to catering to clients to whom privacy is important. Additionally, these clients appreciate that they will have a peer-group of other clients similar to themselves with relatable life experiences.
- Experienced Staff: staff turnover can be quite high in the recovery industry, particularly in lower-end facilities where staffing levels are low and burnout is high. The senior clinical staff at a luxury rehab will consist of Therapists, Nurses and Directors with many years of experience at a small number of treatment centers.
Is luxury rehab worth it?
For the price of luxury rehab you receive a higher level of care, more comfortable surroundings and accommodations, experienced staff and plenty of additional amenities. However, this is only part of the benefit. The most important value of a luxury rehab is that the client is more likely to complete the course of treatment.
How long is the average rehab stay?
A typical stay at a rehab facility is at least 30 days. However, according to data published by the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA), only 42% of individuals who enter treatment for drug and alcohol abuse complete it.
This is a sobering statistic, but not a terribly surprising one. The process of getting sober takes considerable effort, and without comfortable surroundings it can feel overwhelming, leading many to abandon their recovery program. The majority of addiction treatment centers are “institutional” in nature – similar to a hospital, frequently with 2-4 beds to a room. A luxury rehab, by comparison, should feel more like a vacation home or even a spa retreat.
If you want the best chances for you or a loved one to achieve and maintain sobriety, the truth is it’s easier in a luxurious environment.
Some rehabs are luxury in name only
While many rehabs brand themselves as high-end, you should investigate to make sure they are capable of delivering what they promise. Here are some potential red flags to look out for:
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he pictures on the website show the same one or two rooms from multiple angles (because they only decorated the living room)
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Lots of exterior pictures showing the yard, maybe a pool, but no pictures of the bedrooms
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No video walk-through tour of the facility. This is critical to get a true sense of the size and comfort of the rehab.
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No bios or pictures of the staff (because they probably turn over too frequently)
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Pictures of horses. Seriously. Many “luxury” rehabs do offer equine therapy, but it’s typically not on-site and most equine therapy centers do not allow you to ride the horses. Don’t expect to see horses during your stay. (We’re working on our stables now, but no pictures until it’s real.)
Extra Amenities and Experiences
Luxury rehab facilities often take a holistic approach to addiction treatment, addressing the physical, emotional, and spiritual aspects of recovery. This means that in addition to traditional therapy and medical care, you may have access to alternative treatments like acupuncture, massage, and nutritional counseling. These services can help you heal your body and mind, reduce stress and anxiety, and improve your overall well-being. By taking a holistic approach to recovery, luxury rehab facilities can help you achieve lasting sobriety and a healthier, happier life.
At The Differents we also emphasize creative activities for self-expression and emotional healing as well as entertainment throughout the property. We have a full-size indoor basketball court with parquet floors, a bowling alley, gymnasium, putting green and more. The value of this is beyond recreation. Socializing with peers and making lifelong friends is a part of the rehab experience, and having fun social activities fosters the therapeutic benefits that come from these relationships.
Long-Term Support and Aftercare
Another major benefit of investing in luxury drug rehab is the long-term support and aftercare that is often provided. A luxury rehab should offer ongoing support and resources to help you maintain your sobriety and prevent relapse. This may include regular check-ins with a therapist or counselor, access to support groups, and continued access to alternative therapies like yoga or meditation. By providing ongoing support, luxury rehab facilities can help you build a strong foundation for lasting recovery.
