Rehab: Local vs. Out-of-State

If you have made the decision to seek treatment for a drug or alcohol addiction, you will have to weigh the pros and cons of the many different options for the rehab facilities that are available to you (Read 10 Questions for a Rehab Facility). Once you choose inpatient treatment – or staying in a facility full-time instead of coming for care and returning home in the evenings – you will need to decide whether to admit yourself or your loved one to a rehab facility in your area or to travel, in some cases long distances, to a different rehab facility.

What are the pros and cons of local vs. out-of-state rehab facilities?

Local

Pros

• Near your support network of family & friends.

• Family & friends can join in counseling sessions if appropriate.

• May be less expensive when considering travel costs and “perks” of certain facilities that are located in popular areas (like on a beach or in the mountains).

Cons

• Some addicts need both a physical and psychological “break” from their current situation as part of their recovery process.

• Recovering addicts may encounter triggers (in the form of old friends who encouraged the addiction or places where the addiction was fed) on community outings. In general, it is best to avoid triggers when possible.

Out-of-State

Pros

• Offers a completely new, trigger-free environment in which the addict can recover.

• In some cases, the environment may offer natural or cultural activities that were not previously available to the addict; these new options may give the addict a new perspective on life.

Cons

• When considering travel (for both the addict & family/friends) and amenity costs, out-of-state facilities may be more expensive.
• Limits the recovering addict’s opportunities to interact with family & friends.