Destination Rehab

What Is Destination Rehab?

Destination rehab is a drug or alcohol treatment facility that someone travels to for a variety of reasons, including having the chance to heal in a beautiful, serene setting, the opportunity to travel to a new state or country, and being allowed to fully focus on their recovery by limiting distractions and creating separation from the triggers that exist at home.

Destination rehabs are often found in desirable locations, like the beach, the mountains, or the desert. States like Florida, New York, California, and Utah are common destination rehab locations for this very reason, and exploring new scenery can have a lasting impact on the overall recovery experience.

The Benefits Of Traveling For Rehab

The lack of everyday distractions is a primary benefit of traveling to a destination rehab location. This freedom temporarily separates an individual from the triggers of home. For example, familiar places where temptations peaked are far away for the time being, and friends who may have pressured them to partake in substance use are now at a distance, allowing them to solely focus on themselves and their recovery.

Other reasons one may choose to travel for rehab include:

• Anonymity
• Location-specific therapy options
• Elevated amenities
• Luxury rehab options

Featured Destination Rehab Centers

Ecotherapy In Destination Rehab

Ecotherapy, also known as nature therapy, is the general experience of going into nature with the intent to encourage growth and healing. Many people find that exposure to the sun, the sea, and fresh air provides many health benefits, and ecotherapy has been found to be particularly beneficial in the treatment of mental health disorders, which commonly co-occur with substance use disorders (SUDs).

While specifics will vary by location, the general guidelines of ecotherapy include:

• A licensed therapist guides the session.
• The session occurs in a natural environment.
• There is a focus on acknowledging, appreciating, and exploring the natural environment.

The types of ecotherapy offered at destination rehabs are determined by their specific location and resources but often include:

• Adventure therapy
• Exercise therapy
• Equine therapy
• Animal-assisted therapy
• Therapeutic horticulture (gardening)

Regardless of the specifics, ecotherapy offers exposure to nature in a way that often differs from a person’s everyday lifestyle, providing them with a new perspective to utilize while facing the challenges of SUD recovery.

Things To Consider

Attending a destination rehab has many benefits, but there are some things to consider. Being alone in a new location, specifically if it’s one’s first time, can be challenging, as can adjusting to a new geographic environment. Furthermore, staying in touch with family and friends may be more difficult, as arranging in-person visitation will most likely be more complicated. Additionally, a fear of trying new treatments or being around strangers can cause feelings of insecurity and doubt.

Fortunately, rehab facilities aim to make their patients feel comfortable, and ultimately, it’s important to remember that the decision to enter any addiction treatment program is made in your best interest as you work towards a healthier, substance-free future.

Ready to Explore Your Treatment Options?

Destination rehab offers unique methods to recover from addiction. Discover your options and get started on your recovery journey by contacting a treatment provider today.