Benefits of a Men’s Rehab Program
On the road to recovery, there are countless different rehab programs available to choose from. For many men, the best option is a men’s rehab program. By exclusively catering to the needs of men, these programs can deliver a better chance of successful and lasting recovery. Explore some of the key benefits of rehab program designed for men.
Group Therapy Can Focus on Men’s Recovery Issues
A wide range of therapies and treatment methods can be expected during rehab. However, there is no question that group therapy is a critical part of the equation. In a coed rehab environment, however, group therapy can feel limited. In a facility just for men, group therapy can be a more engaging, helpful process.
Group therapy is sometimes just about the opportunity to share and to feel less alone. This is facilitated by encouraging all participants to speak up and express their feelings, detail their history and be vulnerable. Sometimes, men struggle to open up about their past if there are women present. In an environment that’s just for men, it may be easier to be completely open and honest.
Group therapy can also be focused on a specific topic or issue that is relevant to participants. While there are certainly some issues that are important to both men and women, a men-only group therapy session lets participants dive into specific issues that are important to men in particular.
Some men may have questions or concerns about sexual or romantic activity in sobriety. Others are concerned about how their actions might impact their loved ones or their children. They may also express regret about the past, or they might have serious issues concerning financial stability for a family after recovery. Group therapy can be an excellent way to get answers and advice about these issues and more.
Removes Romantic Distractions
Recovering from addiction requires a lot of time and effort. For weeks and even months following your recovery, many addiction experts recommend staying single. In some rehab facilities, however, romantic or sexual relationships can develop. One benefit of a men’s rehab program is that it can eliminate romantic distractions.
During recovery, it is best not to add in new elements that could disrupt stability. Often, intimate relationships do exactly that. It is even possible to replace one substance abuse problem with an obsession. For the sake of stability, patients should get further into the recovery process before adding in new romantic or sexual relationships.
While there might still be women elsewhere in the facility, a men’s rehab program typically provides a space exclusively for men. This could include cafeterias and dining areas, shared common spaces and accommodation. In these areas, men can relax and not feel any judgement. There can be less of an emphasis on looks or style and a greater focus on total recovery.
Facilities Cater to the Needs of Men
For the most part, the rehab facilities for both men and women will be very similar. Men and women both need accommodation, fitness facilities, medical support and healthy meals. However, there are definitely some ways that a facility can cater to the specific needs and preferences of men.
Those preferences might start with the accommodation. If the facility designs rooms with male patients in mind, they might gravitate toward a more neutral or masculine style. These small touches are minor, but they can go a long way in helping male patients feel more comfortable and at home.
Facilities can also offer amenities that men will appreciate. A pool table, television channels playing major sporting events or fitness facilities are all things that male patients may enjoy. Resources can go to those activities, events and amenities that men are more likely to utilize and participate in.
In a men’s rehab program, even the food can be tailored to the culinary preferences of male patients. That might mean bigger portions, a buffet-style serving process or certain meals that men prefer.
Rehab Can be a Safe Space for Both Men and Women
A rehab facility has a number of objectives. Perhaps the most important is to safely facilitate the recovery from addiction. Often, the best way to create a safe space for all patients is to separate men and women.
Some women, especially those recovering from an addiction, feel more secure when they are in a program just for women. To respect this, it makes sense to create a women’s rehab program. The natural response to this is to also create a men’s rehab program.
Men may also appreciate the safe space that a gender-specific program can bring. They can feel secure in their vulnerability, knowing that they are free to be themselves. Both men and women often report higher satisfaction ratings from a gender-specific rehab program.
What to Expect From a Men’s Rehab Program
Clearly, there are a number of benefits of a men’s rehab program. Many prospective male patients, however, may still want to learn more about what this program could entail. For the most part, the process of recovery will be similar whether you’re a man or a women.
Often, the road to recovery begins with a detox. This is a critical part of the recovery process. When patients stop taking drugs or alcohol, it can lead to withdrawal. This withdrawal can often be accompanied by unpleasant symptoms.
During withdrawal, patients can struggle with psychological and physical symptoms. Fortunately, medical professionals can offer support, resources and medication as needed. Nonetheless, this is a time when many men prefer not to have women around. This can be an overwhelming time, and a men’s only environment can result in less pressure.
While in a men’s detox or rehab program, you can expect ongoing medical care. There should also be a variety of therapeutic support options. This could include individual behavioral therapy, group therapy or even family therapy.
A men’s rehab program can offer a number of advantages. If you or a loved one is ready to tackle addiction, make the most of these advantages and find the recovery program that can best meet your needs.