Israel offers some unique benefits if you or someone you know is struggling with drug addiction. These include world-class treatment, modern facilities, and an interdisciplinary approach to care.
For example, Retorno, one of Israel’s oldest drug rehabilitation centers, claims to have a success rate of 80 percent. While some former clients and experts say such a high rate is overstated, many Retorno graduates say the program helped them get back on track.
What You Need to Know
There are many things to consider before you decide to stay in Israel for drug rehab. Some include the types of available drugs, the government’s drug policy, and living in the country.
The most common drugs in Israel are cannabis, ecstasy, and LSD. These drugs are illegal in Israel and can be seized by law enforcement.
Drug use is a severe problem in Israel, with one out of every four young Israelis using drugs at some point. The problem is especially prevalent in the periphery areas of Israel, where there are a lot of conflicts.
Another primary concern is that drug-related deaths are significantly underreported in Israel. It is estimated that between 50 and 60 Israelis die from drug-related causes each year.
To help combat the drug abuse epidemic, Israel has established a unified drug policy implemented by IADA (Israeli Anti-Drug Authority). This includes a comprehensive treatment system with various pharmacological and psychosocial interventions adapted to individuals’ needs according to age, gender, and cultural background.
The Israeli drug treatment policy also outlines the rules and regulations for all drug treatment institutions. This includes licensing requirements for all facilities, as well as minimum qualifications and physical conditions that need to be met by staff members.
Addiction is a chronic, incurable disease that requires professional help. That’s why finding a reputable drug rehabilitation center that offers the best care is essential.
Retorno’s program combines the 12-Step Program and a Jewish-friendly environment to provide clients with a safe, supportive place to begin their recovery journey. The rehab is located in a rustic rural setting and is designed to promote emotional, physical, and mental healing in a comfortable, caring environment.
Harm reduction services are also available for those who struggle with drug addiction. These programs include needle exchange and counseling. These programs are offered in several cities nationwide, including Tel Aviv and Ashdod.
In addition, a few specialized harm reduction programs are aimed at people with opioid addiction and other drug-related disorders. These programs aim to provide patients with treatment options while minimizing the risks of overdose and death.
Getting Help
Getting help from a professional drug rehab facility can be a life-changing experience. Not only will you be treated by a team of highly trained professionals, but you’ll also get to stay in a kosher and safe environment while you recover from your addiction.
The first step in recovering from addiction is detoxification. This may include undergoing several medications to help rid your body of the toxins, alcohol, and drugs that you have been using for years. Then, you will go through psychosocial rehabilitation to learn how to manage your emotions and thoughts without resorting to addictive behaviors.
Many of Israel’s treatment centers are based on the 12-step model, but others offer more intensive and personalized treatments. These rehab facilities are often called Therapeutic Communities, and they employ a 12-step approach focused on specific symptoms you may be experiencing.
In addition to therapy, many treatment centers will host speakers who can provide hope and motivation for those in recovery. These speeches can cover various topics, from rebuilding your career after treatment to inspirational quotes that can give you the strength to fight your addiction.
Most programs also feature activities to keep residents socially active and entertained. These include karaoke, movie nights, sports, art, and fitness classes.
Some facilities even offer housing to keep people in a sober environment while receiving treatment; some have an aftercare program that helps patients transition back into their home lives. The aftercare program may include a series of weekly meetings with a support group or therapist.
Unlike many other countries, Israel has relatively low rates of drug and alcohol consumption. This can be attributed to a combination of factors, including the country’s strict halacha (religious laws) and strong community support.
As the Israeli government attempts to deal with its drug problem, it is vital to ensure that those needing help receive professional treatment. While public health and education efforts are essential, they will never be effective if those needing treatment don’t have access.
Staying in Israel
If you or a loved one is struggling with addiction, it’s essential to know that help is available. Several treatment programs and centers throughout Israel can provide you with the care you need to get back on your feet and stay sober.
For example, House of Victory reaches out to homeless men battling drug and alcohol abuse in major cities like Tel Aviv and Haifa. Staff and volunteers meet them on the streets, challenge them to enter their program, and give them a chance to start over in a new, healthy way.
These men are transforming their lives and bringing others to hope for a better future. At the same time, they are also working to build trusting relationships with the people in their community.
Many patients opt to stay in Israel for their drug rehab due to the high quality of treatment and lower costs compared to other countries. As a result, medical tourism in Israel is a fast-growing industry and has doubled in size since 2013.
While the cost of an addiction treatment program overseas can vary significantly, depending on your specific needs, inpatient treatment for drug and alcohol addiction in Israel is usually much less expensive. The average cost of treatment in Israel for an inpatient stay ranges from 30 to 50 percent lower than the same services offered in the United States.
The Israeli healthcare system is universal, and all citizens are entitled to primary healthcare as a right. The country’s approach is based on the National Health Insurance Law of 1995. All residents must be members of one of the country’s official health insurance organizations, Kupat Holim (kvpt hvlym – “Sick Funds”).
This group offers various benefits, including medical services and prescription medications. Moreover, it provides free or low-cost counseling and social support for its members.
Many people in Israel are addicted to drugs and struggle with other issues, such as homelessness or poverty. The Israeli government has addressed these problems with a comprehensive drug policy to enhance the general population’s well-being and reduce the risk of substance abuse and its consequences.
Relapse Prevention
You will learn to recognize your triggers during treatment and develop coping strategies. This can help you avoid risky situations or prevent relapse in common daily problems.
One of the essential relapse prevention skills is knowing when to call someone who can provide support and guidance when you feel the urge to use drugs or alcohol. Having this list of people to call and staying on the phone while you are amid an appetite can help you overcome it and quickly get the support you need.
Another important relapse prevention skill is learning to relax when feeling anxious or nervous. This can be done through meditation, yoga or deep breathing exercises. These activities can help you de-stress and become more open to change.
A relapse can be devastating and even lead to criminal charges, but it is possible to recover from addiction with the right help. The key to success is to prioritize relapse prevention while in treatment so that you can stay in recovery and enjoy your life.
There are several ways you can ensure that you or your loved one will not relapse while in Israel for drug rehab. The first step is to create a relapse prevention plan with your counselor and discuss it in detail. Then, it is essential to write down the program to access it when you relapse easily.
In addition, you should identify any places or situations that may trigger relapse for you or your loved one. This can include parties and get-togethers where alcohol is being served. You should also list people you know who are in recovery and can provide you with the necessary support and guidance when you are feeling vulnerable or in need of assistance.
Then, once you have a relapse prevention plan in place, you should work with your counselor to develop specific coping skills that will be helpful during times of stress or anxiety. You should also practice using these coping skills in the future to be prepared for when you are faced with a stressful situation.
