Finding effective support for overcoming drug and alcohol use is already a difficult task, and finances should never stand in the way of the detox and treatment programs one may need to transform their life.
However, the cost of recovery can be a barrier to many. Utilizing all resources possible is critical for ensuring that one is receiving effective, professional support while overcoming the effects of addiction. Insurance is just one resource that can be used to break through this barrier. Using insurance alongside other resources can empower those beginning their journey to sobriety to take a step toward their goals rather than feeling held back by financial barriers.
The Costs of Addiction
Addiction is a costly disease. While the price of a dedicated detox or treatment program can seem high, the cost of inaction is much greater. Continuing to engage with drugs or alcohol is incredibly expensive, and not only for the direct cost of purchasing alcohol or drugs. Rather, addiction can compromise a professional life and make it difficult to retain employment, affecting the ability to tend to financial responsibilities.
Likewise, addiction can also carry potential legal ramifications, such as public intoxication charges, possession charges, or DUIs that all come packaged with hefty fines and expenses at every turn. Between the costs of losing one’s job or other risks, professional recovery is a crucial investment.
Prioritizing Effective Treatment
Determining the cost of addiction also means determining the efficacy of any particular treatment facility. It is vital to find dedicated detox and treatment programs that can tend to personal needs, personalize strategies, and help one balance their sobriety with their unique story. There is no one-size-fits-all approach to recovery. Utilizing insurance to help cover the costs of addiction recovery can allow those in need of professional help to combat addiction and focus on the amenities, programs, and therapeutic opportunities available rather than looking solely at a price tag.
Using Insurance
Addiction is a disease, not the result of any kind of moral failing, despite any unfortunate and prevalent stigmas. However, when it comes to insurance coverage, its classification as a disease is essential, as addiction is covered just as any other chronic disease would be under one’s policy. Both public insurance policies and private plans available through one’s employer all cover these chronic diseases to some degree. However, it is still important to talk with one’s provider to determine the exact amount that will be covered under one’s plan.
Discussing finances is always difficult. However, knowing the exact amount that will be covered under one’s plan is paramount for managing one’s finances and allows those ready to take their first step toward sobriety to do so with a plan for how they will cover these expenses.
Utilizing Employment Resources
For working professionals, one’s employment may have specific resources dedicated to addressing addiction. Some may direct an individual to particular channels or to human resources or have pamphlets or established support groups consisting of like-minded coworkers. While it can be intimidating to use these resources, it also allows those beginning their journey to sobriety to work alongside employers in recovery. This level of openness and support can help each individual maintain their employment status and create an air of honesty while garnering the professional support necessary to overcome an addiction to drugs or alcohol.
Some employers may also have Employee Assistance Programs (EAPs) that can be used to help cover the costs of detox and recovery. Discussing these opportunities with one’s employer can provide additional financial assistance in one’s pursuit of sobriety.
Utilizing hard-earned vacation time may also be necessary. Effective detox programs demand one’s complete focus to navigate withdrawal symptoms and changes throughout this initial phase of recovery. Distancing oneself from professional responsibilities and stresses is instrumental in focusing solely on one’s recovery. Familiarizing oneself with the Americans With Disabilities Act (ADA) is also essential. Under this act, one can have their employment status protected while pursuing medical treatment, including professional addiction recovery programs.
Focusing On Your Sobriety
While the costs of recovery can be intimidating, the price of inaction is much higher. Utilizing all resources available is essential for being able to wholly focus on one’s sober efforts. Insurance is an important resource for those looking to take their sobriety and future into their own hands.
Managing one’s use of insurance, vacation time, employment resources, and even personal supports are all crucial for navigating this change. There is no easy way to address and overcome the effects of addiction, but insurance can help deconstruct financial barriers and pave the way for each individual to focus on their own health rather than feeling excluded by financial barriers.
Addiction is a costly disease, and insurance is instrumental in ensuring that you or your loved one is able to receive the necessary treatment to overcome an addiction to drugs or alcohol. At Pacific Sands Recovery Center, we understand the stresses of finances and believe that they should never stand in the way of a healthy, sober future. We accept most insurances — from Aetna and Cigna to many others — and are ready to work with you to find the best way to balance your need for professional recovery with your finances. Your time with us is wholly personalized to fit your needs and goals, offering individual and group therapy, extensive experiential programming, and many opportunities for personal growth, all backed by a supportive community of peers and professionals. For more information on how we can customize your recovery plan, call to speak to us at (949) 426-7962.
