How Alcoholism Can Make Your Blood Pressure Worse

Scientists are still learning how alcoholism affects heart health and blood pressure. According to a few John Hopkins University studies, moderate alcohol drinking may lead to a lower risk of dying from heart disease. Also, modest amounts of alcohol might help to slightly raise the levels of HDL or “good” cholesterol as per some studies. Does that mean, however, that alcohol consumption is a great habit and has no repercussions on your health? Not at all. Let us look at the ways alcoholism can make your blood pressure worse.

The association between moderate alcohol drinking and heart health is still debatable, with both supporters and naysayers offering evidence; the focus keyword, however, remains “moderate”. Excessive alcohol drinking, on the other hand, has no positive side to it.

Too Much of a Good Thing

While short-term repetitive drinking can lead to temporary spikes in blood pressure and heart rate, long-term alcohol abuse and alcoholism may lead to chronic hypertension/high blood pressure and even cause heart disease. Addiction to alcohol is a very serious problem.

alcohol-drinking-problem-blood-pressure-weight-gain-physical-mental-health-addiction-liquor-beer-wine-drunk

How Alcohol Affects My Blood Pressure?

Although the impact of alcohol consumption on the body depends a lot on age and risk factors, excessive drinking is never recommended for anyone. This is because alcohol abuse can lead to a myriad of direct and indirect impacts on the body and mind, which are detrimental not just to the individual but also to those who surround them.

Direct effects

Alcohol abuse and alcoholism can have pronounced direct effects in the short- and long-term, chief among them being a temporary increase in blood pressure, which may turn into long-term excess due to repetitiveness.

Indirect effects

There are several ways in which alcohol is known to affect blood pressure indirectly. Alcohol is known to affect the nervous system, which controls blood pressure. Also, it causes changes in pressure receptors that sense blood pressure levels, making blood pressure higher. Alcohol consumption increases cortisol levels – the stress hormone that increases blood pressure – and the level of calcium that lines arteries, making them more constricted, elevating blood pressure.

Scientists have also found that alcoholism affects the number of other vasoconstrictor hormones (artery-constricting hormones), impacts the retention of fluids filtered in the kidneys and leads to weight gain in the long-term, all of which contribute to increases blood pressure numbers.

excessive-alcohol-consumption-blood-pressure-health-effects-addiction-treatment-Central-Texas

How Much Is Too Much with Alcohol?

The American Heart Association has outlined the definitions of excessive drinking, which one can revise to keep their consumption in check:

Moderate Drinking is defined as one drink per day for women, and two for men.
Heavy Drinking is more than three drinks a day for women, and two for men.
Binge Drinking is defined as four or more drinks within two hours for women, and five or more drinks within two hours for men.

According to AHA, one drink is equivalent to 12 oz of beer, 4 oz of wine, 1.5 oz of 80-proof alcohol and 1 oz of 100-proof alcohol. At the end of the day, however, it does not matter what is the beverage you pick – what matters is the amount.

Why is High Blood Pressure Bad for You?

There are two kinds of blood pressure numbers we are familiar with. The higher number denotes high blood pressure, which occurs when the heart is contracting and forcing blood into the arteries. The lower number stands for low blood pressure which occurs when the heart is in the relaxed phase.

Consistent and abnormally high blood pressure or hypertension is detrimental to our body because it damages the lining of arteries, causing them to harden (arteriosclerosis), ultimately leading to arterial blocking. The blockage of arteries subsequently leads to a blocked flow of blood to the heart (causing heart attack), brain (causing stroke) as well as other essential organs, leading to multiple-organ failure.

On the other hand, low blood pressure is not a long-term condition, though it also leads to poor health outcomes such as dizziness and pale skin. However, low blood pressure is easier to reverse and quicker to recover from.

physical-mental-health-effects-alcohol-consumption-drinking-getting-drunk-addiction-treatment-More-Than-Rehab

Alcoholism and Serious Diseases

Heavy drinking is directly associated with several poor bodily outcomes, including heart conditions such as cardiomyopathy which affects the heart’s muscles. Excessive alcoholism may even lead to heart failure and stroke, apart from the most common complication - heart attack. The long list of problems associated with alcohol abuse also includes liver diseases, obesity and poor mental health.

Compared with people who did not binge drink, people who drank alcohol at twice the gender-specific binge drinking thresholds were 70 times more likely to have an alcohol-related emergency department (ED) visit, and those who consumed alcohol at 3 times the gender-specific binge thresholds were 93 times more likely to have an alcohol-related ED visit, says the National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism.

Alcohol intake can also specifically affect those who are on blood pressure medications. These medications usually come with side effects associated with low pressure – dizziness, loss of balance control and so on. Excessive alcoholism also impairs our sense of balance, which is why this combination can prove detrimental. Alpha- and Beta-blockers as well as Nitrates can interact dangerously with alcohol and should be avoided.

Reversing the Ill-Effects of Alcohol on Heart Health and Blood Pressure

The good news is that the ill-effects of alcohol abuse can be reversed if you take action at the right time. Studies show heavy drinkers who reduce their consumption to moderate can lower the upper blood pressure readings or systolic blood pressure by about 5.5 millimetres of mercury (mm Hg) and their lower readings or diastolic blood pressure by about 4 mm Hg.

That being said, one rule does not fit everyone when it comes to getting rid of alcoholism. Recovering from alcohol is as much a personal process as it is a medical one. It can lead to withdrawal symptoms, impact your mental health and cause visible changes to your body. However, with the combination of the right approach and evidence-based treatments from specialists, one can stop drinking and de-addict themselves effectively and holistically.

evidence-based-addiction-treatment-alcohol-drug-rehabilitation-Austin-Texas

How Does More Than Rehab Help?

At More Than Rehab, we aim to provide quality care to those in need of all-inclusive and therapeutic modalities, helping individuals identify what is best for their recovery. Our team of a skilled and compassionate team of counsellors, psychiatric specialists and physicians who coordinate a comprehensive and individualistic plan for the recovery of individuals in need. Coupling our approach with cognitive behavioral therapy, More Than Rehab caters to the full spectrum of a person’s addiction.

Alcoholism is one of the leading mental and physical issues affecting the United States today. However, it can be gotten rid of, and its impacts treated or reversed. It is upon you to make the best out of the opportunity to, for you might get only a chance at it. You can start your life afresh – we are just a click away.

888-249-2191

The Military and Drug Use

America is known for having a strong military, whose members are strongly supported by other American citizens, because we recognize that their duty and sacrifice are what allows each of us to enjoy the freedom we all share. Unfortunately, the United States has participated in many conflicts across the globe, most recently in Iraq, in 2003 as a response the 2001 terrorist attacks that took place on American soil on 9/11. American troops are still currently active there, to this day. While many know the long history of the United States, and our involvement in a number of wars, a newer topic in the American discourse is the tumultuous repercussions of these conflicts to our soldier’s mental health. The military and drug use are not mutually-exclusive. Many active duty military personnel and our returning veterans can easily face the very real challenge of developing a substance use disorder.

Military combat veterans and drug use.

Some things that Veterans in our country are forced to deal with, usually upon returning home from war, range from issues like homelessness, unemployment, and mental health disorders such as PTSD (or post-traumatic stress disorder). These issues are certainly not unexpected and they are relatively common. Another issue with members of the military, and their immediate families, are substance abuse disorders, like an addiction or chemical dependence to drugs or alcohol.

Oftentimes, this can go both ways, as the loved one who is a member of the military may develop an addiction overseas or once returning home, or, vice versa, the family members who are not in the military may develop an addiction while their loved one is away at war.

In 2015 alone, more than 30% of active duty military personnel engaged in hazardous drinking behavior or met criteria for an alcohol abuse disorder.
- The Rand Corporation

military-drug-use-family-mental-health-PTSD-addiction-treatment-Houston-Texas-Air-Force-Base-Laughlin-AFB

What types of drugs are commonly used by military personnel?

Besides alcohol, substances like marijuana and cocaine are also common among active duty service members currently in the military, however, due to the fact that testing positive to a random drug test could lead to a dishonorable discharge, many military members develop problems associated with alcohol or prescription painkillers, commonly prescribed due to injuries from combat or carrying and operating heavy equipment. For instance, during the years of 2001 to 2009, the number of painkillers prescribed to the military more than quadrupled, causing a subsequent rise in opioid use disorders as well. In 2017, one in four active-duty members of the United States military received a prescription for opioids.

According to data collected by the National Institute on Drug Abuse, more than one out of every 10 veterans has a substance abuse disorder of some kind, which is slightly higher than the general population, even more so when just comparing data for male veterans aged 18-25. This number could be attributed to the fact that many veterans will also develop a mental health disorder as well. A recent report found that nearly 30 percent of active duty personnel have a mental health condition requiring treatment, and just under 50 percent of veterans have a mental health condition that also requires treatment.

The negative stigma concerning mental health prevents military and their families from asking for help.

mental-health-Army-Air-Force-Navy-Marines-United-States-military-addiction-treatment-Houston-TX

Another issue for military members is the stigma surrounding mental health and/or addiction. Many times, they are afraid to seek help in fear of what loved ones or other people may think. If you, or a loved one, are struggling with a mental health issue or a substance abuse disorder, please do not hesitate to ask for help! Years of experience has shown that many family members are accepting and more than willing to try to get you the help that you need. You made sacrifices to help defend American freedom, our heritage and values. You deserve to be treated with respect and care, especially when it comes to your mental health.

As always, please feel free to reach out to one of our addiction specialists today!

More Than Rehab is located just outside of Houston, Texas.

We’re always here to offer help when needed!

888-249-2191

Substance abuse among America’s Military Families.

Another important aspect of the military and drug use, is what happens to the family that gets left behind while their loved one is away fighting for the freedom and protection of our country? This is important to consider when talking about the military and drug use, but all too often it seems to get overlooked. A recent survey found that roughly 44% of people in the military are married with children, and approximately 56% are married alone. Numbers estimate that there are more members of military families then there are active duty personnel, where roughly around 1.9 million people in the United States are an immediate part of a military family.

According to the NSDUH (the National Survey on Drug Use and Health), over 30% of military wives aged 18-49 participated in hazardous binge drinking behavior within the last 30 days and over 12 percent reported abusing illicit drugs within the past year. Furthermore, they were much more likely to engage in binge drinking behavior compared to other members of the civilian population. Additionally, 30 percent of military wives aged 18-49 also had a mental health disorder requiring treatment within the last year.

military-families-US-armed-forces-veterans-substance-use-disorder-mental-health-treatment-detox-Texas-Biggs

These rates of substance abuse could be due to a number of reasons: having to juggle all the household responsibilities and take care of the kids all alone while their husbands are away at war. Wondering if their loved one is going to be safe, while deployed to active duty. These things are emotionally traumatic for both parties. Unfortunately, the children of active duty service members are not unaffected by one, or both of their parents being in the military. The same survey showed that nearly 20% of children who had a parent in the military also struggled with a substance abuse disorder of some kind.

While research in this field is still relatively new, it is safe to say that not only are veterans and active members of the military affected, but their family members may be as well. There is honor in serving your country, and there is honor in loving someone who does, but it can come with its own set of consequences.

Here at More Than Rehab, we truly understand substance abuse disorders and specialize in areas like how the military may impact the entire family with things like PTSD and substance abuse disorders. It is important to remember that even though you may be suffering, you are not alone. Let us help you get back on track and show you the way to get your life back. To the members of the military and their families, we appreciate your service to this country and would not hesitate in returning the favor!

(888) 241-2191

Why Being In-Network for Blue Cross Blue Shield Is Better For Drug and Alcohol Treatment

Thankfully, there are many options for insurance out there in the world today. However, If you happen to be a member of Blue Cross Blue Shield then there are a wide array of benefits that you get from purchasing any one of their numerous insurance options. It is estimated that nearly one out of every three people in America rely on services provided by Blue Cross Blue Shield. This is because of the extensive and vast coverage that they offer. Blue Cross Blue Shield members have access to thousands of medical assistance options, doctors and hospitals across the world all while providing safe, quality, and affordable healthcare. Additionally, Blue Cross Blue Shield insurance can cover a wide array of services, including dental care, prenatal, maternity, and newborn care to things like emergency services, hospitalization and preventative care. Another one of these services is coverage for mental health and rehabilitative services, such as rehab for drugs and alcohol.

Most insurance plans cover alcohol and drug addiction treatment services in Texas.

We hope that you never have to encounter a situation where you or a loved one may require rehab for drugs and/or alcohol, but we know that for many families this situation is all too common.

It is estimated that nearly 21 million people suffer from a substance abuse problem in our country nearly every day, not to mention people who live outside of the United States.

A substance abuse problem, otherwise known as an addiction, is very common. It is when a person is unable to stop using drugs or alcohol even if they have gone through negative experiences as a result. Things like homelessness and job loss are consequences of their addiction, something that has taken over the functioning of their brain.

Simply put, a person who is addicted to drugs or alcohol does not have the same brain as someone who is not addicted to drugs or alcohol, they are literally not able to stop doing them. That is why, in most cases, professional help from an addiction specialist is needed in order to help save their life from this debilitating disease.

drug-addiction-treatment-Houston-Texas-cost-insurance-BCBS-TX

So, if you are one of those 21 million Americans who suffer from an addiction, or if you are a loved one of someone who is addicted to drugs or alcohol, and you also happen to have Blue Cross Blue Shield, then do not worry. Coverage for drugs and alcohol is something that they offer coverage for, in fact, it is now required by law that insurance companies must offer some type of addiction treatment coverage, even if there is a preexisting condition. This is because of the Affordable Care Act. So, even if you don't have Blue Cross Blue Shield be sure to check with your insurance provider to see what sort of coverage they offer. The same goes for those who carry Blue Cross Blue Shield, be sure to speak with your insurance agent to see what kind of coverage your specific plan has to offer, as all insurance plans may not already cover these costs. Most insurance plans including treatment for drugs and alcohol include things like:

Inpatient care for approved facilities
Outpatient care with an approved provider
Medical detox, including any medications required
Co-occuring mental health conditions
Follow-up support or counseling
Maintenance medication

What’s the difference between in-network and out-of-network providers?

Once you figure out what kind of coverage your specific plan has to offer for drug and alcohol treatment, then there are a few things to keep in mind when trying to find the rehabilitation program that is right for you. One of, perhaps the most important questions is whether or not that treatment program is considered an in-network provider or an out-of-network provider. In-network refers to providers or facilities that are in your insurance companies network, often they have negotiated prices and hefty discounts with certain providers.

Out-of-network simply means that the provider or facility does not have a contract with your insurance agency. So, even if they may be a good facility, you are surely going to end up spending more money, perhaps on a service that is of lesser quality.

addiction-recovery-program-College-Station-Texas-Blue-cross-insurance-provider

While some insurance plans may cover part of the cost of a rehabilitation program that is out-of-network, it won't be anywhere near the coverage offered for an approved facility and provider. The same can be said for members of Blue Cross Blue Shield, though they will cover some portion of the cost for an out-of-network facility (if it happens to be one you really want to go to), it will be nowhere near the amount of coverage if you chose a facility that is in-network. One of those reasons is because not only have they negotiated a deal with that facility or provider, but they have thoroughly vetted them to ensure that they are safe and that they offer quality, affordable care.

With Blue Cross Blue Shield, it is safe to say that the majority of your costs will be covered for a number of inpatient services, outpatient services, and hospitalization. Again, be sure to speak with an associate about your specific health care plan.

Located just outside of Houston, Texas, More Than Rehab now accepts Blue Cross Blue Shield Insurance.

Not only are cheaper costs guaranteed, but so is the quality of the provider. Here at More Than Rehab, we accept Blue Cross Blue Shield insurance and only provide the highest quality of care. If you are looking for an excellent facility who accepts Blue Cross Blue Shield, then we are here to help! It is our passion and desire to help restore an addicted person's way of life to a place where they no longer need to rely on drugs or alcohol in order to feel normal. We treat the underlying issues that led to the addiction to begin with. We understand that addiction is a complicated disease and we offer any level of care that is necessary. We know how hard of a struggle achieving sobriety can be. We have helped many who have walked that lonely road before and we have brought them to a place of happiness. We proudly help United States military and their family members. It is never too late to ask for help, everyone deserves a second chance at life.

Bryan-TX-drug-alcohol-opioid-heroin-meth-addiction-treatment

Find out if we can help you today!
Call us at (888) 249-2191
Or, fill out our online insurance verification form and we will get back to you ASAP.

Why is Alcohol Harder to Quit than Other Drugs?

If you have ever struggled with quitting alcohol and drugs, then you know how difficult it can be, especially around the holidays. Overcoming an addiction and staying sober are essential to leading a healthy and fulfilling life. For those who do not know, addiction is considered to be a disease of the brain that can permanently alter the brain's circuitry patterns and affects how the brain functions on a daily basis. It is often characterized by the inability to stop using drugs or alcohol despite the user having experienced severe and negative consequences throughout their lives. While any addiction is hard to overcome, there are some that are more difficult than others.

What can make a substance more difficult to quit is how addictive it is. Alcohol or drug addiction is formed when the brain begins to depend on the excess release of certain chemicals, like dopamine, due to the use of drugs or alcohol. These chemicals send signals back and forth between neurons, helping to establish good habits that are normally dependent on survival, such as eating or having sex. When a person takes drugs or alcohol, they are releasing the same chemicals inside the brain that give us feelings of pleasure, essentially tricking our brain into believing that we need drugs or alcohol in order to survive. The repeated release of these chemicals without a natural reward is what eventually causes a person to become addicted, although, sometimes all it takes is just one time for someone to develop a substance abuse problem.

alcohol-hard-to-quit-alcoholic-addiction-help

Alcohol and Factors for Addiction

It can be difficult to determine how addictive a drug is to any one person, but in the United States alone, alcohol is the most commonly used and addictive substance. According to the National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism, over 14 million people in the United States over the age of 18 suffered from an alcohol addiction in the year of 2017. That translates to 1 in 8 Americans experiencing an addiction to alcohol. Furthermore, 1.8 percent of youth aged 12-17 also suffered from a problem with alcohol abuse that year. With so many other harmful substances out there, why is it that alcohol seems to remain the biggest problem for addiction in America? Research and science has shown that there are 5 common factors for addictiveness when it comes to drugs and alcohol.

Dependence- Dependence rates on alcohol are very high. As mentioned earlier, Alcohol is the most commonly abused substance in America. This can partially be attributed to the fact that alcohol is the most socially acceptable drug and it is also one of the most highly marketed substances since it is legal in all 50 states. Alcohol can be seen at most social gatherings and is also widely available as it is sold at gas stations, restaurants, grocery markets, and liquor stores. Not many people would bat an eye if you had a drink at dinner, so it can make someone with an alcohol dependence that much harder to spot.
Withdrawal- Research suggests that nicotine withdrawal is worse than the symptoms for recovering heroin addicts or people who use crystal meth. However, withdrawal symptoms for alcohol are even worse as it is one of the very few addictions where fatal symptoms can occur during the withdrawal process, killing the person going through them. Symptoms from alcohol withdrawal can include;
- Agitation
- Anxiety
- Headaches
- Nausea and Vomiting
- Seizures
- Insomnia
- High Blood Pressure
- High Fever and Excessive Sweating
- Delusions
- Auditory and Visual Hallucinations
- Delirium Tremens (DT)

If you are experiencing withdrawal symptoms of any kind from alcohol, it is always suggested you seek professional care as any number of complications can arise. Delirium Tremens are the most severe form of alcohol withdrawal and, out of those who experience them, 5-25% of people will die without medical treatment.

alcohol-addiction-treatment-Houston-Texas-San-Antonio-Austin-TX

Tolerance- While increased tolerance is a big concern for any drug, most people will tell you that they can drink more now than they could when the first began drinking, even if they don't have what is considered to be an alcohol problem. Again, thanks to the social acceptability of alcohol, it is common to go out drinking on the weekends with your friends or to have a few drinks with family on special occasions like Christmas, New Year's Eve, or the 4th of July. What makes alcohol even more dangerous is that its effectiveness can depend on many factors like how much a person ate that day.
Reinforcement- Reinforcement as a factor for addiction refers to how likely a person is to seek out the same substance again after using it. Alcohol has a high reinforcement rate as it is a common substance used in social experimentation. It also creates feelings of increased self confidence and “liquid courage”. It is a common drug for peer pressure early on in life and, unfortunately, can cause an unexpected addiction at a young age. Research suggests that the younger a person is when they are exposed to an addictive substance, the more likely they are to develop an addiction.
Intoxication- How high a person gets on a drug is also a factor for how addictive it can be. When it comes to alcohol, how high a person gets on the substance can greatly vary. However, people who consume alcohol can become very intoxicated before reaching the point of overdose. Due to the consequences of heavy drinking, when compared to other substances, most people believe that binge drinking is not an issue. Sadly, this is not the case, as an estimated 88,000 people die annually from alcohol related causes, making it the third leading preventable cause of death in the United States alone, behind tobacco and poor diet.

With all these factors combined, it is not difficult to understand why alcohol is one of the hardest drugs to quit. Not only is it commonly accepted but it is widely available and has many common misconceptions about its use. Even many members of the US military and their families are prone to alcohol abuse. No one deserves to struggle with an addiction by themselves, if you or someone you know are having a difficult time quitting drugs or alcohol, then we are here to help. A new life begins with making one simple step and there is life without drugs or alcohol.

888-249-2191

Does Your Insurance Affect Your Drug Rehab Choices?

For most people, the cost of certain medical procedures are a major concern as the coverage for insurance can vary among providers. Unfortunately, the question for the cost of a drug treatment facility is no different. Perhaps you or a loved one are struggling with an addiction and now you are wondering what the cost may be and whether or not it is covered by your insurance.

It is never a good feeling when someone has to wonder whether or not they can afford the cost of going to rehab for an addiction to drugs or alcohol, but if you do find yourself in that situation, just know that you are not alone. According to the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration, 19.7 million Americans aged 12 and older suffered from a substance use disorder in the year of 2017. Furthermore, out of those 19.7 million people who had reported having an addiction in 2017, only 19% of them had received substance abuse treatment of some kind. If you are one of those many americans still suffering, then we are here to help! There are many treatment options available.

If you are wondering if your insurance company can help cover any of the cost for treatment, then do not worry, thankfully, through the Affordable Care Act, every health insurance provider must offer coverage for substance use disorder services.

What is the Affordable Care Act?

The Affordable Care Act (ACA), also commonly referred to as Obamacare, was first signed into legislature in March of 2010. It defines 10 essential health benefits, one of them being services for substance abuse disorders and behavioral health, meaning that health insurance companies could no longer deny coverage for these type of services. It also extended coverage to millions of uninsured Americans and helped to lower the cost of health care. Also, due to the passing of this health reform, people cannot be denied based upon pre-existing mental health conditions or substance abuse disorders.

How Health Insurance Affects Rehab Choices

While having health insurance is a benefit when looking for drug and alcohol treatment, it can still affect your choices for a drug rehabilitation facility. There are many reasons why your insurance may affect your choice when thinking about admitting a loved one or yourself for treatment, one of them being the amount of coverage that is offered by your specific insurance plan and the individual insurance benefits that come along with it. Some insurance companies may have out-of-pocket expenses or additional copays, while others may cover the cost of treatment completely. Be sure to speak with your provider for more details.

Cost of Rehab

The cost of drug rehabilitation alone can greatly affect the options someone may have when considering drug rehabilitation. The cost for treatment can depend on many factors, including;

Whether the patients level of care requires inpatient rehab or outpatient treatment
How long the person needs to stay in the program
Whether the provider is a government funded program, a hospital program, or a privately funded facility
If the patient has a dual diagnosis or co-occurring mental health disorder that also needs to be treated
The type of amenities and luxuries offered at the facility, such as private rooms or spa treatments
Where the facility is located, i.e. if it is next to a beach or another desirable location
Travel costs to get there

The type of insurance you have, the deductible and copay can play a huge role in selecting the treatment facility that is best suited for your or your loved one.

In-Network/Out-of-Network

Another thing to consider when looking for the best option available is whether the specific treatment facility is considered to be in-network or out-of-network. In-network health insurance means that the specific provider has been approved for coverage and is typically contracted at a specific rate, helping to reduce costs. Out-of-network facilities have not been approved for coverage so it will not help in reducing cost for treatment. However, if there is a preferred option that is out-of-network, cash may cover any additional expenses needed to attend.

Length of Stay

The length of stay can also have a huge impact on where a person decides to check into for drug rehabilitation. While most insurance companies only offer coverage for 30 days, medical professionals at rehab facilities will work with insurance companies to extend that coverage for the needed stay for the intended individuals to have a full and healthy recovery.

How to Get Treatment Without Insurance

Statistics show that one of the many reasons why people do not seek treatment when it is needed is because they do not have insurance. What they may not know is that sometimes insurance is not necessary in order to get treatment. Here are some ways to get treatment without insurance:

There are many free, or low-cost, sliding scale, payment plan facilities and alternative programs that offer payment assistance
Many faith based organizations offer free rehab services to those in need
The government offers grants through the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration
Medicare and Medicaid
S. Department of Veteran Affairs
State and locally funded treatment programs

Research suggests that for every dollar spent on substance abuse treatment, it saves $4 dollars in medical expenses and $7 in law enforcement and criminal justice costs. Finding a way to pay for treatment not only helps to save your life but will also save you money in the long run on expenses like medical treatments, court costs, and further loss of income related to drug use.

The sooner you reach out for help for either yourself or a loved one, the sooner the healing process can begin. There are many treatment services available that are designed to fit the needs of the individual. We will work with you, with or without insurance, to ensure that you are getting the best care needed for you or your loved ones recovery.

(888) 249-2191

Can You Afford Drug Rehabilitation?

If there were two primary obstacles to attending addiction treatment, they would most likely be a fear of asking for help and the doubt that they could even afford drug rehabilitation. Addiction treatment can be prohibitively expensive for many people who struggle with addiction, so how can you find out if you’re eligible to receive help when you’re ready for it? Millions of Americans still cannot afford health insurance, even with the passage of the Affordable Care Act, or “Obamacare”. While the well-intentioned government mandate that all health insurance plans available on the open exchange must cover mental health (including addiction treatment), there are still a lot of people who can’t afford health insurance to begin with.

Most people who have a substance use disorder may not even realize that addiction treatment might be covered by a health insurance plan they currently hold. This leaves the average person truly unaware of the costs associated with addiction treatment and drug rehab in Texas, and across the nation. Addiction treatment costs widely vary too, depending on the type of substance you’re addicted to, the level of addiction and the types of treatment you need to receive.

Scientific, evidence-based approaches to drug rehabilitation are likely the most cost-effective versions of care, as they offer a proven success rate, regardless of age, gender and other demographics. These methods of rehabilitation can literally be life-saving so it is difficult to put an accurate price tag on rehabilitation. A lot of this comes from the perspective of the money you’ll be saving, taken for granted that the rehab works.

Addiction to drugs can be very expensive, let alone costing you your life...

Say you have a major cocaine addiction, the typical addict can spend anywhere from $200-$1,000 a day on the drug during a heavy binge. This equates anywhere from $6,000, up to $30,000 a month for the simple maintenance of your coke habit. If rehabilitation works, just think of the money you could actually save in the long run. This is just one extreme example, but the bottom line is your livelihood and the chance to spend the rest of your life doing things with your family and close friends, versus chasing a high from a drug that will ultimately only ruin your life.

The different types of drug rehab and their associated average cost in Texas.

There are many different types of drug rehabilitation and different levels of care with each option and for each individual’s unique needs. Let’s break down the options below.

Detox: a full-medical detox is commonly the first step of a longer, more in-depth alcohol or drug rehabilitation. Some patients will only receive the detox part of rehab, because they think that’s all they’ll need. Detox will help you get off of the drugs or alcohol in a safe, medically monitored way. Some addictions have severe withdrawal symptoms that in some cases can be deadly. In the case of opiates, alcohol and benzodiazepines, quitting cold-turkey can have deadly consequences. Seizures, heart palpitations and delirium tremens could all possibly result in death. Again, the cost will vary depending on the severity of the chemical dependency and the type of substance you are detoxing from. Typically a medical detox at an outpatient clinic will run anywhere from $1,000 to $2,000 dollars.

Inpatient drug rehab: Most inpatient drug rehabilitation centers will require a minimum 30 day stay. Some require longer stays with a 90 day program. Depending on the area, and types of services provided the typical cost of inpatient drug rehab will range anywhere from $6,000 to $20,000 or more per month. Some rehab centers are quite luxurious, offering amenities that go far beyond what is required to quit using drugs or alcohol. These “destination rehabs” can go well beyond $20,000 per month and are typically reserved for movie stars and highly-paid CEO’s.

Outpatient addiction treatment: An outpatient treatment program can be much less expensive than a stay at an inpatient facility. Outpatient drug rehab programs usually comprise of support groups and individual therapy sessions, completed daily and you can typically attend these programs around your busy school or work schedules. Outpatient programs can be good enough for a mild addiction, but it could end up taking much longer than a stay at an inpatient facility. Outpatient drug rehab programs typically run around $5,000 for a three-month program.

A note about medication-assisted treatment (MAT) and evidence-based drug rehab.

An evidence-based approach to addiction treatment typically offers the highest success rates of any type of drug rehabilitation. For a patient who is addicted to alcohol or opiates like painkillers or heroin, medication may be beneficial to help you quit using. These medications, like buprenorphine, Suboxone or methadone are beneficial to help ease the painful, early withdrawal symptoms.

Evidence based methods of treatment show greater success rates when combined with individual and group therapy sessions, such as cognitive behavioral therapy, 12 step program integration and other supporting treatment options. Some medications will be taken for up to 12 months and the yearly cost of these medications will be around $5,000 per year.

How do I pay for addiction treatment? How Can We Afford Drug Rehabilitation?

Most people will pay for a drug rehabilitation program with their insurance coverage. Since the passage of the Affordable Care Act (ACA), otherwise known as “Obamacare” health insurance plans on the exchange will pay anywhere from 60-90% of the cost of drug rehabilitation program. This has been an important step to fighting the nations current drug overdose and opioid epidemic. Now more people have access to life-saving drug rehab services than ever before. If you are struggling with addiction and need treatment, you should consider looking into your health insurance coverage options.

If you cannot afford drug rehabilitation, some people will take out personal loans to pay for their addiction treatment. Attaining sobriety and giving yourself the amount of care you deserve is worth the money. You can think of rehab as an investment into making a better life for yourself, your family and your friends. Think of the alternative without attending rehab, typically you can either A) end up in jail, or B) continue your substance abuse and possibly die from a drug overdose. Sobriety is worth it and while it may seem difficult, sobriety is very much an attainable goal.

Houston-Texas-addiction-treatment-drug-rehab

With so many different options for you to get help, it is possible for almost everyone to get the addiction treatment they need. If for some reason, none of these options are a possibility for you or your loved one, there are many state-funded programs available to you. The Texas Department of Health and Human Services has a searchable database of low-cost rehab programs on their website: https://dshs.texas.gov/sa-search/. But do keep in mind that many of these government run programs will have long waiting lists, with robust eligibility requirements.

If you need help right away please don’t hesitate to give us a call at More Than Rehab. We strive to offer the best quality addiction treatment programs in the Houston, Texas area, at a low cost to our clients. We never want cost to prohibit you from getting the help you need. In many cases, we can find a way to offer care at little to no cost for you out of pocket. Please call us anytime, we are available 24/7 to take your call:

888-249-2191

How to Get an Affordable Drug Rehab for a Teen in the Houston, Texas Area

How do you find affordable drug rehabilitation for your teen who is struggling with addiction? Drug addiction and alcoholism are common in the Houston, Texas area. Often, there is a negative stigma associated with substance abuse, but having a teen who developed an addiction is nothing to be ashamed of. Addiction is a treatable disease, with the right individualized treatment program, we can help cure your teen from this life-threatening disease.

You have come to the right place.

It is likely you have gone through an emotional rollercoaster upon finding out your teen was suffering with the disease of addiction. Maybe you found out that your son or daughter was not only experimenting with drugs and alcohol, but they had developed a full-blown chemical dependency that seems to have taken over every aspect of their life. The lying and secrecy you have experienced from your teenager lately makes you feel like this is no longer the child you once raised. Perhaps you don’t recognize the person they have become. The actions of someone suffering with a substance abuse disorder can have a ripple effect that will impact the entire family. Addiction often comes with self-destructive behaviors that only get worse over time, so now you have decided to take action and do research on how to help your child, whom you care so deeply for.

At More Than Rehab, we offer the best, evidence-based addiction treatment in the Houston area. Hopefully we can help answer some of your questions and get your teen the help they need right now.

Typically, an adolescent who is struggling with a drug or alcohol addiction will require different strategies and treatment plans than our older patients. A teenager who is using drugs or alcohol before the brain is fully developed can develop a chemical dependency much faster than a typical adult. The human brain does not fully develop until the age of 25. As such, teens experience stronger emotional reactions in their thinking patterns. While an adult brain processes their decision making in the prefrontal cortex, a developing teen processes information with the amygdala, which is the emotional center of the brain.

Not only do teens have different cognitive abilities than adults, most who use drugs are attempting to compensate for their inward feelings of depression, low self-esteem, family or school troubles and possibly another mental illness. Many teens will need a dual-diagnosis approach to substance abuse treatment. This will address not only the addiction, but also any other underlying mental health issues they may be experiencing.

Because experimentation with drugs and alcohol is sadly a common occurrence for many American teenagers, most kids will not think they need rehabilitation. As you are looking for an affordable care option to treat your child’s addiction, consider staging an intervention to help them understand the need for professional help. When you do confront your teen about their substance abuse, use your words wisely and approach the situation with compassion, understanding and care. Let them know how much you love them. Use compassion as the basis for your discussions about their behavior. Once you have completed the intervention, make sure you have a location picked out so you can begin their recovery right away.

The negative stigma that is commonly associated with addiction is the reason many people do not seek help. It can be a struggle for them to admit they need help. Denial can be a symptom of your child’s own shame and guilt associated with their alcohol and drug abuse. Many teens will try to hide their substance abuse out of the fear of being judged. Let them know they are not “in trouble” but that their continued drug use could cause them a lot of problems later in life. Help them understand that drug and alcohol abuse can lead them two places: in jail, or dead from an overdose. As we see the staggering numbers of people who die in the United States every single year, (72,000 overdose deaths in 2017 alone) the time to get serious about helping people with addiction is now.

Find Affordable Drug Rehabilitation Centers in the Houston, Texas Area.

For parents or legal guardians of a teen who is battling addiction or another mental illness, the benefits of rehabilitation and treatment far outweigh the costs. While there are numerous treatment centers out there, you will want to choose the one that is best suited to meet your loved one’s individual needs. There is no one-size-fits-all solution to the nation’s addiction problem. Your teen, just like everybody else has a unique set of circumstances that each play a part in their overall problem with addiction. Many rehabilitation centers have different treatment plans for different substances. The best rehab for your teen should be flexible and offer a wide-range of treatment options that can be formulated to best suit their needs.

With the passage of the Affordable Care Act (ACA), your health insurance can help you pay for addiction treatment.

The ACA, commonly referred to as “Obamacare” mandates that mental health and substance abuse treatment be covered as one of the essential health benefits. If you have insurance in Texas, these benefits are mandated under the state’s medical insurance exchange. (To learn more, visit the Texas Health Options website). The ACA also expanded funding for treatment to Americans covered under Medicare and Medicaid. As a benefit for your child who may be struggling with addiction, the ACA allows individuals under the age of 26 to remain on their parents’ health insurance plan. If you have any questions about your coverage, please fill out our secure, online insurance verification form on our website.

At More Than Rehab, we strive to provide the best possible care, at little to no cost for you out of pocket. With the help of your insurance plan, rehab doesn’t have to cost a fortune. We believe that cost should never prevent someone from receiving the help they need to overcome their addiction. If you feel that treatment is not affordable, or you do not currently have insurance, there may be state and private assistance options available to help you.

Public Assistance Options for Alcohol & Drug Rehabilitation That Are Available to You.

Various state and private assistance resources are available to help those in need. The Substance Abuse & Mental Health Services Administration, or SAMHSA is a good place to start. They have a state-by-state list of agencies available to help you find treatment in your local area. Contacting these agencies will help you find out what services and programs may be available to treat your teen’s substance abuse. Your state agency may also help you find a variety of private and public faith-based treatment programs. These agencies are great resources to help you find available treatment options for your teen in your local area.

If you need help with substance abuse, or even a recent relapse into drug use, please call us. We are available 24/7: