Often people have this idea of the type of people that are in a drug rehab. And often, it’s a picture that can put them off getting the help they need.

There are so many misconceptions around drug rehab and most commonly is that it’s not for people like you. It’s more for people that have hit rock bottom. They’ve had a life of being disadvantaged, no money and turning to drugs or alcohol as a result of their environment.

However, that’s far from the case. Addiction doesn’t discriminate and as a result nor does getting help and going into recovery.

Drug rehab centres are filled with all manner of people, all with unique stories, challenges and aspirations. So, what type of people will you really find in rehab?

Professionals and High Achievers

Actually, against popular belief, what you will find frequently in rehab are successful professionals. The pressures of white collar work, such as lawyers, doctors, executives can often lead to people turning to drugs in order to try and cope, combatting stress burnout and mental health struggles.

For many, drug abuse starts as a way to relax after a tough day, but it can very quickly spiral out of control and become a part of day to day life and a necessity. In many cases, centres will cater to those professionals who need to continue to work, providing tailored programmes that can balance both recovery and work responsibilities.

Parents and Caregivers

Parents and caregivers can often suffer with burnout and the constant pressures of ensuring everyone is looked after. It can often mean people can’t look after themselves and as a result they turn to alcohol or drugs.

Managing addiction and family responsibilities can be tough but rehab centres are really good for helping people find the motivation in rehab to get help with their problem, rebuild relationships with loved ones, as well as setting them up for a happier, healthier and sober future.

Young Adults and Teenagers

Substance abuse among young people is a significant concern, and many rehab centres cater to teenagers and young adults specifically. This group often struggles with peer pressure, experimentation, or coping with trauma and mental health issues. Rehab can be a critical intervention for this demographic, offering the tools they need to redirect their lives before addiction becomes more entrenched.

Specialised programmes for younger individuals often include educational support and therapy tailored to their developmental stage, helping them to build healthier coping mechanisms for the future.

Retirees and Older Adults

Addiction is not limited to the young. Older adults, including retirees, also attend rehab for various reasons. Some may have developed a dependency on prescription medications after dealing with chronic pain or medical conditions. Others might turn to substances as a way to cope with loneliness, bereavement, or other life changes.

Rehabilitation for older adults often focuses on addressing their specific physical and emotional needs, proving that it is never too late to seek help and embrace recovery.

People from All Socioeconomic Backgrounds

Addiction affects individuals across the socioeconomic spectrum. In rehab, you might find people who have faced significant financial struggles alongside those who appear to "have it all." Addiction often erodes the distinctions between these groups, highlighting the universal nature of the human struggle with substance dependency.

Some rehab centres offer programmes based on financial need, ensuring that people from disadvantaged backgrounds can access the help they require, while others may cater to affluent individuals seeking privacy and exclusivity.

Individuals with Dual Diagnoses

Many people in rehab are not just dealing with addiction but also with co-occurring mental health disorders such as depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, or PTSD. Known as a dual diagnosis, this combination is common and requires integrated treatment to address both conditions simultaneously. Rehab centres often provide therapy and medical support tailored to the unique challenges faced by this group.