If you’re in a position where you are struggling with addiction and feel like you need help, understanding the treatment options available to you is really important.
Rehab is something that can be life changing and help with all manner of issues from alcoholism to drug abuse, gambling issues and more. However, we often get het up on the rehab cost.
To those uninformed, rehab can feel outside of the budget for many people, but that really isn’t the case. There are lots of affordable options out there, from payment plans to reduced fees based upon income. In fact, there are also ways to get addiction treatment for free too.
If you perhaps don’t have the money to pay for treatment, here’s what you can do to aid your addiction struggles for free…
NHS Support
While it isn’t easy to get NHS support for addiction, it is possible, particularly for those with more severe cases. It is one of the best routes to take for those unable to afford private care though, and as part of treatment will involve:
- Assessment and advice: Your GP can be the first point of contact, offering a confidential space to discuss your concerns. They can refer you to local drug and alcohol services, provide advice on self-help strategies, or prescribe medication if appropriate.
- Counselling and talking therapies: Many NHS services offer one-to-one or group therapy sessions. These focus on identifying triggers, developing coping strategies, and supporting long-term recovery.
- Detoxification programmes: In some cases, the NHS can provide medical detox, helping people withdraw safely from substances under professional supervision.
- Community-based support: Local NHS addiction services often provide drop-in centres, peer support groups, and outreach work to ensure help is accessible.
Local Authority and Charitable Services
There are options out there too from charities and local authorities that, while not as in-depth as private rehabs treatment, can give you the tools you need.
It’s always worth Googling to find what’s available in your area as it can differ from region to region. But among the things you will encounter range from key worker support to structured therapy programmes, not too dissimilar from outpatient rehab, while many towns and cities also have drop-in advice centres.
What’s more, addiction often does affect other areas of life, so housing and employment support can also be made available to those that need it.
Peer Support Groups
The role of support groups in a person’s life can never be underestimated, for any type of condition, never mind addiction. They’re pretty much always free and a great way to meet likeminded people, receive help and guidance and be able to share your experiences with those who have been, and are going through, exactly the same thing.
People can form real friendships and bonds through support groups and they can be there for you in your time of need, just as you will be for them. Most towns have AA meetings and the like, so just take a look online and get yourself down there.
Online Resources
Equally, the internet has tons of resources now too, from online support groups and communities to guidance, tips and step-by-steps on things. You’ll find plenty of YouTube channels for mindfulness techniques, shared stories on withdrawal. Essentially you can find all you need to know online.
The online community is always active and can be deeply motivational. What’s more, if you’re not quite ready to share your problems with people face to face, you can do so anonymously online without the fear of judgement too. Something that can be a good first step for many.
When Free Services May Not Be Enough
However, while free services can be really effective and just what’s needed for some, they may not be right for everyone, particularly if you need help right now. Private rehab can give you the instant help you need, but of course that does come at a cost.
The one thing you shouldn’t think though is that it’s unaffordable to you. There are options out there and it’s well worth reaching out to get the help you need if the free options aren’t really working for you.
And, to remind you, what you may pay out now, you’ll certainly save over time from no longer funding your addiction. After all, alcohol, drugs, gambling – they aren’t cheap either!
