If an individual enters treatment for an addiction, what keeps them there? Many treatment centers ask this question, as their goal is to help people reap the rewards of living clean and sober. Research suggests key information that helps keep individuals in treatment.

An integrative approach to treatment. Recovery from an addiction involves many lifestyle changes; not such abstaining from drugs, alcohol, or a specific behavior. If treatment offers people an opportunity to learn new skills such as financial planning or nutrition, the individual will feel empowered and prepared for recovery.

Qualified staff. It might sound strange that a treatment center would not employ qualified staff; however, a person who has access to medical and clinical staff that are trained in addictions, might feel like they have a knowledgeable resource that can answer questions. In addition, qualified and caring staff can help individuals feel safe from detox to discharge.

Emotional support. An individual will likely complete treatment if they know the program will allow them an opportunity to work on emotional issues. People enter treatment with layers of emotional problems and they need to feel secure in knowing that staff will help them through their emotional concerns and restore psychological functioning.

Individualized treatment plans. Not all addicts are created equal and many in treatment want to know that their specific addiction is being addressed and their specific concerns about recovery will also be addressed.

Dual diagnosis experience. If an individual has a co-occurring disorder, they want to know that both disorders will be treated.

Adjusting treatment goals when necessary. Treatment goals should be adaptable and re-evaluated to maximize the level of care received. If a person believes they have met one of their treatment goals, they should be able to adjust current treatment plans and have input into new goals for recovery.

Relapse prevention. Individuals in treatment want to learn how to avoid relapse. They want clear objectives for tackling life’s issues once they are released.

Aftercare services. Following treatment, individuals want to have the necessary resources that will guide them in their new lifestyles and to have tools that will help them post-treatment.

Yourself. Treatment begins with you. You will be the guiding force that keeps you in treatment and learning as much as possible about your addiction and your recovery. You will get out of it what you put into it. You are the most important component of treatment and recovery.