You will find that the addiction treatments and programs in a Buddhist treatment facility are very similar to those in non-faith-based treatment programs. However, Buddhist treatment centers may provide a few extra faith-based programs.
Detox
An important first step in any recovery program is to medically detox from any drugs and alcohol that may be in your system still. During this time, patients are medically supervised by health care providers, doctors, nurses, and other medical staff.
Patients will have their vitals monitored the entire time, including their heart rate, temperature, and blood pressure. Patients going through detox may be allowed to socialize with others going through this same process.
Inpatient or Residential Treatment
Inpatient programs are designed for people who need a higher level of intensity when it comes to their treatment. This includes very structured schedules with individual therapy, group therapy, and support groups.
Patients in residential treatment will have access to spiritual guidance and support, as well as relapse prevention and frequent monitoring by medical professionals.
Prayer and Worship
Buddhist rehab programs are unique in that they offer spiritual resources alongside evidence-based treatment programs. Patients in a Buddhist rehab will have access to a spiritual advisor, time for meditation, as well as individual and group prayer, when available.
If you are a practicing Buddhist, you will have access to tools that will help your faith journey as well as your sobriety journey.
Gender-Based Care
As with most drug and alcohol rehab facilities, care and treatment are generally separate for men and women. This can assist in allowing people to feel safe when speaking and be more open when talking about their addiction or the road that led them to it.
Outpatient Treatment
The next step for people who have successfully completed an inpatient treatment program or a detoxification program is to join an outpatient treatment program. Outpatient programs are designed to work in a step-down format, where each successive level is less intensive.
The three most common forms of outpatient treatment are:
- Partial hospitalization programs
- Intensive outpatient programs
- General outpatient programs
Outpatient programs generally consist of peer support groups, for example, 12-step programs like Alcoholics Anonymous. In Buddhist rehab programs, the alternative to the 12-step method is the Eight Step Recovery program.
Counseling and Therapy
An important part of the recovery process is to take care of your mental and behavioral health. By taking care of your mental health problems, you can increase your chances of successfully maintaining your sobriety.
Counseling and therapy are important parts of any alcohol and drug rehab program. Cognitive behavioral therapy and dialectical behavior therapy are two of the most commonly used therapies in addiction treatment, as well as individual, family, group, and couples counseling.
Support Groups
It is important to surround yourself with people who understand your unique struggles, and support groups are a great place to socialize with others on their sobriety journey.
There are many Buddhist support groups available for those who identify with the Buddhist faith or believe in a higher power. Finding the right support group for you can take time, so make sure to be patient while you are looking and do not give up