Taking the first step to recovery is a brave act that some people may consider, especially if they have the resources. However, it may be difficult to do this if you feel that you don’t have the money or support you need for recovery. What are some options for drug and alcohol treatment if you feel that you lack the resources? Here are some things you need to know.

You may be physically and mentally ready, but there are still some things that hold you back from taking the first step to recovery. If sheer will and determination are the only things that people need to recover from drug and alcohol abuse, then the journey would be considered victorious for some. However, for many others, there are still other hindrances prevent them from seeking treatment.

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What are some reasons why people hesitate to seek treatment?

Aside from the stigma towards drug and alcohol addictions, there are other resource-related problems that people may face when they are seeking treatment. Some of these reasons include:

Some people do not have health insurance coverage.

Although most people would avail drug and alcohol treatment through their health insurance, some would hesitate after discovering that their insurance does not cover rehabilitation treatments, or they may not have availed for insurance at all.

Having an insurance program that covers rehabilitation treatments are essential. Rehabilitation centers often coordinate with insurance companies regarding the payment set up and how you will be able to cover the expenses through your insurance contributions.

Some people have lack of physical access to medical care.

In some instances, people live in areas where medical care is not too accessible. Either through the lack of information or more of living in a remote area, it may be difficult for them to seek treatment from a doctor, rehabilitation specialists, or a center that can cater to their needs.

Other centers do not have the resources to accommodate in-patient care, and the drive may be too long for those who receive out-patient treatments. Thus, some people who may have started on their program may end up quitting halfway due to logistical restraints.

Some are fearing the cost of other out-of-pocket costs related to recovery.

It takes both effort and resources when it comes to seeking treatment for addiction recovery. Even when the whole treatment is covered by a health insurance, some people fear the cost of lifestyle changes that may occur during recovery.

During the recovery process, there may be additional therapies which are preferred but not covered by insurance. Additionally, there are costs in incorporating a healthy diet, regular physical activity, and other lifestyle preparations towards the journey to recovery. Thinking about these extra costs may overwhelm an individual making them hesitate to seek drug and alcohol treatment.

Some may feel that they would not finish the treatment process and end up wasting money.

Even when the addiction treatment resources are available, some people feel like they’re deep into their problems that they feel defeated even when they haven’t started yet. The main problem for these people is that they wonder if they could even stay motivated to complete a program.

Considering the treatment success rates to be low and the lack of recommendations for quality rehab centers, some people do not attempt to try at all. The fear of change, losing resources, and wasted effort altogether make an individual skeptical about seeking treatment.

Some people lack informational resources to find treatment.

Many people are aware that they need rehabilitation treatment on their journey to sobriety. However, their condition may also prevent them to rationally seek information about treatment programs that are within their means.

Low-income individuals may immediately think that they need prime healthcare insurance to cover the costs of treatment. Those with dual diagnosis problems may worry that they have to shell out costs both for their substance use disorder and mental health conditions.

Thus, it is important for people to become aware of their treatment options, regardless of their income level. If these reasons are stopping you from finding treatment for drug and alcohol addiction, below are some helpful options to get you started in your first step to recovery.

Options for drug and alcohol treatment

State and local government assistance

If you do not have access to healthcare insurance or an insurance program that covers rehabilitation treatment, you may seek help through state and locally funded programs. It is reported that one-third of people availing rehabilitation treatment for drugs and alcohol are under government-funded programs.

Depending on the state you live in, there are official resource centers offering programs for drug and alcohol rehabilitation. These resource centers, or agencies are responsible for providing people with the information and funding they need to start their treatment.

There are several requirements in order to be eligible for state-funded programs:

• You must show proof of your residence in the state treatment program that you’re applying for.
• You must demonstrate your inability to pay for treatment or lack of a health insurance that covers rehabilitation treatment.
• You must show proof that you’re a legal US Citizen or a permanent resident.
• You must present information about your substance use disorder diagnosis and severity of your condition.

The common problem for these treatment centers are the long waiting lists. Since these programs are availed by a large sum of people without health care coverage, it is advised to apply promptly to give allowance for waiting times.

Substance Use Disorder and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) Grants

The federal government also provides resources for rehabilitation treatment. This is done through the main government agency, SAMHSA, which offers non-competitive grants.

The SAMHSA grants are also known as block grants. They are provided by the Congress as part of the funding for mental health disorders and substance use disorder problems. These funds are passed along by the federal government towards the states.

However, there are sub-programs under SAMHSA that people can apply for depending on their eligibility. Some examples of these are Services Grant Program for Residential Treatment for Pregnant and Postpartum Women, IV drug users, and those who may be diagnosed with HIV or AIDS. They also target specific populations who may not have access to healthcare or healthcare insurance. If you would like to know more, you may visit the SAMHSA website.

Medicaid and Medicare

You may not have prime healthcare insurance, but if you have Medicaid and Medicare, it is possible to avail of rehabilitation treatment coverage. Both these programs have offers for in-patient and out-patient treatment for most substance use disorder problems.

If your condition requires you to seek hospital treatment, Medicaid and Medicare also covers partial hospital services that you may need. The Medicare option is available for elderly patients (65 years old and above) as well as those with a disability status. People with dual diagnosis problems (other mental health issues: Bipolar, Depression, Schizophrenia, etc.) may also apply with disability benefits prior to availing services for Medicare.

Some of the common conditions that increase your likelihood of availing rehabilitation treatment funded by Medicaid include the following:

• If you are an elderly (65 years old and above)
• If you are currently pregnant or in a family with young children
• If you are within the low-income bracket level
• If you are disabled

For more specific eligibility requirements, you may visit the Medicaid website.

Veterans Administration

Another option to seek addiction treatment is the Veterans Administration (VA). If you have previously served or are serving in the armed forces, the VA provides assistance for rehabilitation treatment in various areas of addiction recovery. These include:

• Outpatient counseling services
• Alcohol and tobacco screening
• Intensive outpatient treatment
• Medical detox and follow-up support
• Aftercare and relapse prevention
• Prescribed medication for substance use disorder treatment

These services may be available on-base or off-base depending on your healthcare provider. You may visit the VA website or call the hotline at 1-800-827-1000.

Affordable Care Act (ACA)

Another option available for funding your rehabilitation treatment is through the Affordable Care Act (ACA). There are 10 health benefits under the ACA program which are funded by the state or through the Medicaid. They provide full coverage or subsidies that can help you fund the rehabilitation treatment program or some of the related health services. These include:

• Psychotherapy
• Counseling
• Inpatient mental and behavioral health services
• Substance use disorder treatment

Those who have policies under ACA may ask their healthcare providers for more information. This option is ideal for people who have little or no income during the time of addiction treatment. You may visit the Healthcare.gov website for more information about ACA.

Knowledge and resourcefulness helps pave the way to addiction recovery

Rehabilitation treatment isn’t only available for those who feel secure about their healthcare insurance. Mentioned above are the following options which are available depending on your eligibility. When you are armed with the right knowledge and an attitude of resourcefulness, you can find ways to fund your path to addiction recovery.

Want more information about how Chapters Capistrano can help? Feel free to call 949-276-2886 and one of our addiction specialists will help get the information and help you need.