2023 Oscar Nominated Movies That Include Addiction

Films and TV shows tend to shape how culture views a certain subject (or profession). Recently, the idea of therapists, mental health, and addiction in pop culture became more mainstream. However, some films and shows do more harm than good—overdramatizing addiction and mental health, or just poorly representing it.

Others capture the rawness, truth and importance of addiction and mental health. 

All the Beauty and the Bloodshed 

Winning an Oscar for best documentary, All the Beauty and the Bloodshed recounts photographer Nan Goldin’s experience with addiction. She depicts her addiction to prescription painkiller OxyContin, and her frustration with the Sackler family.  

America’s Opioid Crisis

All the Beauty and the Bloodshed shows that Nan’s addiction began after an injury. Doctors prescribed a common medication at the time, OxyContin – which is highly addictive if taken incorrectly1. It contains oxycodone, which causes a high similar to heroin. 

Nan, like many others, became addicted to OxyContin after a perhaps thoughtless pain management plan. Nan formed P.A.I.N.2, Prescription Addiction Intervention Now, to “speak for the 250,000 bodies that no longer can.”

The Sackler family, owners of Purdue Pharma, received backlash for pushing OxyContin prescriptions when they perhaps weren’t needed. Nan worked to get museums and other Sackler-supported institutions to publicly separate from the family. 

America’s opioid crisis may have begun with overprescription of pain meds3, but it’s since grown for new reasons, like cheap, accessible products. Fentanyl, too, plays a large role in the 1,500 opioid-related deaths per week.

Treatment Options for Opioid Addiction

Many rehabs treat opioid addiction. In a residential setting, you’ll likely go through a medically supervised detox first, then begin therapeutic treatment. 

Therapies for opioid addiction could range from talk therapies to contingency management plans, which offer rewards for each step you complete in treatment. Talk therapies like cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) will help you work through the thoughts and emotions causing your behaviors. Then, you’ll learn new ways to process and manage what you feel.

You’ll learn coping tools for the future, relapse prevention strategies, and typically engage in an aftercare program to keep you well supported. 

All the Beauty and the Bloodshed explored prescription medication addiction. Other nominated movies this year blazed new trails, like The Whale.

The Whale Explores Grief And Binge-Eating

The Oscars nominated Brendan Fraser for Best Lead Actor. The Whale depicts Charlie’s (Fraser) journey through binge eating, grief, and depression. His coping mechanism began after the death of his partner. 

The story highlights the power of grief and the hold of eating disorders, and how they can function as a coping tool. Different characters in the film try to help Charlie, but as it often is, his grief is persistent. 

What Is Binge Eating Disorder?

Binge eating is eating without control4—it might feel impossible to stop. Sometimes, after binging, a purge happens; this is the pattern of bulimia nervosa5. You might purge through throwing up, taking laxatives, excessive exercise, or starving yourself. It’s meant to “undo” the binge. Not every binge eater purges, though. 

Binge eating might be your coping tool, especially if you’re dealing with something as powerful as grief.

Grief And Depression

Depression is a stage of grief6, as proposed by Kübler-Ross. In The Whale, Charlie mourns the loss of his partner, who died by suicide. Depression became a strong stage in his mourning. 

If you or someone you know is considering suicide or self-harm, you can call or text the number 988.

The film suggests binge eating became Charlie’s own way of committing suicide.

Getting Help for Grief And Depression

There’s help for the millions of others like Charlie. Grief and depression can weigh heavily—sometimes unbearably so. But you do have options to heal

Complicated grief therapy (CGT)7, for example, can help with grief and all its stages. Using loss- and restoration-focused care, “the therapist works to facilitate the progress of grief to help the client come to terms with the death.” 

Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) can help with depression and grief7. Using CBT, your therapist can help you modify your thoughts and change your behaviors. For grief, CBT could help you process your loss in a more productive way.

To Leslie And Blonde

Both To Leslie and Blonde highlight drug and alcohol addiction. They were also both nominated for Best Leading Actress in the 2023 Oscars. Ana de Armas played Marilyn Monroe in Blonde, and Andrea Riseborough played Leslie in To Leslie.

To Leslie depicts a mother’s struggle with addiction, spurred on by a seemingly-ideal lottery win. Leslie reaches new lows and eventually seeks help for her daughter’s sake and herself. 

Blonde retells the life story of Marilyn Monroe, who tragically and famously died after an overdose. 

Drug And Alcohol Addiction: Not Just for The Famous

Movies like Blonde make addiction seem almost ritzy—something only people with deep pockets can do. Then, To Leslie goes and proves that wrong. So which is true? 

It’s both. 

Addiction doesn’t discriminate. In each movie, despite the contrasts in leading women, their reasons for substance abuse were similar. The case remains true for many today. Stressors, mental illnesses, or trauma can start a habit you can’t stop on your own. 

Stories like Leslie’s and Monroe’s can help the larger public see this through a cleaner lens. Addiction wasn’t a moral failing of either woman. It was how they coped. 

But there’s more than one way to find that same sense of control. Treatment can help you see that.

Treatment Options for Drug And Alcohol Use

Many rehabs treat drug and alcohol addiction. Here, you’d have constant monitoring, individualized care, and a structured treatment schedule. Most residential rehabs also offer on-site detox

Depending on your situation, you might find an intensive outpatient program (IOP) or partial hospitalization program (PHP) more suitable. Each of these programs provides effective treatment, and you get to go home at night. IOP is less intensive, usually lasting 3-5 hours a day, while PHP could go for 5-8. 

In these treatment settings, you’ll learn relapse prevention skills and work on the thoughts behind your behaviors. Rehabs typically offer a variety of therapies to meet your needs. 
You can browse our list of rehabs to see reviews, pricing, and insurance information, and more.

New York Rehabs: Find Calm in the City or Escape Upstate

New Yorkers’ lifestyles are as varied as the rich tapestry of people that define the state—and luxury rehabs here build their programs around this. You’ll find programs with flexible lengths of stay, amenities for busy professionals, and specialized treatments for specific client groups. 

Whether you prefer the convenience of an urban setting, the quaintness of a mountain town, or the peacefulness of the seaside, New York rehabs have something for everyone and high-level care to boot.  

Serenity in the City

If you live in New York City and don’t want to travel for treatment, several rehabs in the city provide ways to find calm while staying close to home.

Urban Recovery 

Urban Recovery offers medically supervised detox followed by an intensive treatment program that includes 35 clinical hours per week. Their 5-story building on the waterfront in Red Hook boasts views of the New York Bay from the rooftop lounge. Residential treatment here can be short- or long-term, with detox programs lasting 5-10 days, residential stays up to 30 days, and intensive outpatient programs up to 90 days. Clients attend yoga and pilates classes with professional instructors and enjoy facilities like the fitness room, music studio, and art room while they heal.

Urban Recovery is decorated with plush, private bedrooms and luxury amenities, including a rooftop lounge overlooking the iconic New York Bay.

Ascendant NY 

Housed in a Manhattan brownstone, Ascendant NY offers a private space with a focus on confidentiality. Programming here prioritizes the detox process, providing nutritious meals, yoga, and fitness to ease the effects of withdrawals.

Hazelden Betty Ford New York 

Conveniently located on Manhattan’s West Side and backed by Betty Ford’s long-standing reputation, Hazelden Betty Ford New York offers a range of addiction treatment programs tailored to various needs. These include outpatient programs, virtual therapy, lower-intensity options, and recovery management. 

Bear Betty Ford animal therapy
Meet Bear, the resident certified therapy dog helping clients feel extra comfortable and calm at Hazelden Betty Ford New York.

Clients here also get to meet the center’s resident labradoodle and certified therapy dog, Bear, who rides the subway to work each day to provide residents with a dose of nonjudgmental comfort. 

See our list of luxury rehabs in New York City for information on additional programs. 

Upstate Escapes

If you’re looking to connect with nature as you heal, rehabs upstate offer even more quietude. Not far from the city are the winding rivers, staggering mountain peaks, and seemingly endless seas of trees that make Upstate New York feel like a world away.

Mountainside Retreats 

New York State’s 4-seasons climate means its countryside is bright green in the summer, but transitions to vibrant oranges, reds, and yellows in the fall. Snow blankets the state in the winter, while blossoms burst with color in the spring.

Mountainside Chappaqua, for example, is only an hour away. But the complete change of scenery might lead you to believe otherwise. Chappaqua is a hamlet (tiny village) of just under 3,000 people. Here, you can immerse yourself in nature’s sanctuary on meditative hikes near the property.

You’ll find Saint Jude Retreats in the small town of Amsterdam. This secluded property rests on acres of forests and meadows. You can walk their private trails or fish for bass in the pond—and in the winter, the water freezes, setting the stage for outdoor ice skating. 

Activities in the natural world don’t end on their own property, though. Every other week, clients visit the Adirondack Mountains for outdoor excursions like hiking, horseback riding, and cross-country skiing.

Coastal Refuge

If the sounds of ocean waves are calling you, The Dunes of East Hampton is just under 2 hours from NYC. Located inside a private gate and secluded woodland, this facility is only steps from the seaside. You can walk to the beach for picturesque views of Long Island coastal bluffs and rolling fields. Staff here also take clients on outdoor excursions like sailing, nature walks, and biking along scenic pathways.

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Located right by the beach, clients at The Dunes of East Hampton have plenty of access to outdoor activities including scenic walks, swimming, and more.

Spending time outside is more than just a fun pastime—it’s also good for your mental health and well-being. One study found that spending just 2 hours per week in nature positively affects your health. According to psychological scientist Amanda L. Mahaffey, “A vast body of research shows us that, above all, humans flourish in nature. Pretty much everything about nature has a positive effect on us in some form.” And this includes your recovery journey.

Programs for Executives and High-Profile Clients 

Clients under extra pressure to perform face unique challenges in recovery.  In fact, some people believe that risk factors associated with these lifestyles mean people in high-powered positions may be more prone to addiction

K.L., a client at The Dunes of East Hampton, describes his struggle with substance abuse despite his polished image

“I am a professional with a high level of education, although I had been struggling with alcoholism and addiction for over 20 years. I was a patient at over 10 facilities in the past 10 years, with no improvement. Everyone in my life had given up on me, including myself. People who knew me thought, ‘He is highly educated and professional, why can’t he just stop?!’”

K.L. determined the causes of his addiction with the help of a team of specialists. For him, that included a past trauma, a family history of alcoholism, and underlying mental health issues. In recovery, K.L. worked through those issues, and began to heal from the inside out.

Fortunately, some rehabs have specific programs for professionals like K.L. who need more flexibility in their care. 

How NY Rehabs Cater to High-Profile Clients

Some people aren’t able to step away from their job for the duration of residential rehab. And that’s understandable—most programs are at least 28 days, and if you have people depending on you, it’s hard to stop work entirely. Or, you might be a celebrity seeking solitude and anonymity. Whatever your background, some luxury rehab centers make an extra effort to accommodate executives, celebrities, and other high-profile clientele. 

These might include special resources for professionals, like those at The Dunes of East Hampton:

  • flexible technology policies that allow clients to use their cell phones and laptops for work
  • separate meeting rooms to give clients privacy while they work for enhanced focus
  • the ability to create your own schedule so you can go to therapy around work meetings
  • a sober companion who can accompany you to work-related events and activities, during and after rehab
  • private living quarters and secluded facilities that shield you from the outside world
  • comforts like massage, gourmet meals, swimming pools, and more

These services help clients have the most comfortable rehab experience possible—while keeping an eye on their responsibilities.

Treatment for Eating Disorders and Other Dual Diagnoses

Eating disorders include anorexia nervosa, bulimia nervosa, and binge eating disorder (BED). While the symptoms in each condition differ, the core is the same: an unhealthy relationship with food

Eating disorders often occur along with substance use disorders,1 especially in adolescence. Women make up 90% of eating disorder patients, and 50% also misuse substances. There’s a good chance that another co-occurring condition is present too, like anxiety, major depressive disorder, or PTSD.

Because this is so common, some rehabs specialize in treating eating disorders, addictions, and other mental health conditions all at once. Clementine Briarcliff Manor treats girls ages 12-17. (Adolescent girls are more likely to develop an eating disorder.) Treatment includes exposure therapy alongside traditional talk therapy. In exposure therapy, clients work through uncomfortable situations in a safe, supportive environment. In this context, clients might practice food shopping or creating a nutritious recipe. Sometimes these exercises involve family members. They might even include exposure to activities at home or school to prepare you for situations you may encounter in real life.

Clementine Briarcliff
Clementine Briarcliff Manor specializes in treating eating disorders from their tranquil, boutique-style facility in Westchester County, New York.

Although more common in women, eating disorders—like substance abuse—can affect anyone. Other rehabs cater to specific groups, like Center for Discovery Hamptons for adolescents of all genders, and Monte Nido River Towns for adults.

Recovery Coaches

Mountainside Chelsea has a unique program in which each client is assigned a recovery coach. According to their team, “Mountainside Recovery Coaches are certified professionals that act as partners, allies, mentors, and advocates for clients in early recovery.” These coaches can help clients apply for jobs, find housing, and build support networks. They can help you complete goal-setting exercises, create a sustainable routine, and discover new hobbies. Recovery coaches are available to take calls 24/7, whether you’re having a hard day or want to share good news. Many of these coaches are in recovery themselves, and can directly relate to your ups and downs.

A recovery coach at Mountainside Chelsea describes his goal this way:

“Our job as a coach is to help clients get comfortable with being uncomfortable, so they can later do those things on their own.”

Weaving Culture Into Care

In addition to this special program, Mountainside Chelsea immerses clients in the thriving culture of New York City. Clients can go to museums, shows, amusement parks, cooking classes, and more. Remember that recovery can be fun—and in fact, parts of it should be. It’s important to balance out the emotionally exhausting parts of this work with rewarding activities. Having fun is crucial to a self-care routine, and can even prevent relapse. And in New York, this means exploring the life-affirming experiences that the city has to offer.

Mountainside Chelsea
Mountainside Chelsea provides addiction treatment and recovery coaching in the heart of New York City.

A Fresh Start Is a Phone Call Away 

New York has plenty of quality care options for those living in the state and traveling from elsewhere. Whether you’re looking for treatment in the heart of the city or the spaciousness of the countryside, New York may just have an option for you.

Search our collection of luxury rehabs in New York to see photos, take virtual tours, read reviews, and more.

Innovative Therapies and Immediate Care: Why Go to Private Rehab in London

London, like many other cosmopolitan areas, is full of diversity and culture. The many languages, ethnicities, and nationalities found here lend the city a unique and lively feel. History seeps from every cobblestone corner, and bright red double-decker buses whiz past famous landmarks like Big Ben and Westminster Abbey.

While a busy city may sound counterintuitive to recovery—people often equate healing with the quiet countryside—it’s still possible to find serenity in this metropolis. Countless parks speckle the city and serve as sanctuaries amidst the hustle and bustle. And luxury rehab centers in London provide necessary pockets of peace. While inside, you might completely forget that the busy city is right outside the front door.

There are several benefits to attending private rehab in London. At some facilities, you’ll come across novel techniques, like TMS and Alpha-Stim therapy. You’ll experience a relatively mild climate that stays relatively warm all year round. And most importantly, you’ll have rapid access to high-quality care, instead of waiting for a spot in an NHS facility.

Should You Opt for Self-Pay?

All UK citizens are eligible for free addiction and mental health treatment. However, getting government funding to attend rehab1 can be complex. This process is often lengthy, and you’ll have to attend the first available facility. This likely won’t be the rehab of your choice.

By choosing to self-fund treatment, you’ll get to choose from a variety of options. There’s a good chance this means enrolling in your preferred center. Attending a private rehab streamlines your admission process. You’ll get faster access to care—and find safety that much sooner.

Some luxury facilities offer unique treatment options that NHS clinics don’t. By opting to self-pay, you can choose a center with innovative care methods that fit your unique needs.

Cutting-Edge Treatment Techniques

London is home to a number of universities, hospitals, and research centers. As these institutions study new treatment methods, rehab centers may add them to their list of services. In London, this means that clients can try novel therapies for treatment-resistant conditions, like Alpha-Stim therapy and esketamine.

Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS)

TMS is a non-invasive treatment that aids in relief from addiction, depression, anxiety, PTSD, and bipolar disorder. This procedure uses magnetic pulses that stimulate or suppress areas of the brain. While there are different kinds of TMS, repetitive TMS (rTMS) is one of the most popular. In rTMS, repeating pulses are applied to specific places in your brain that correlate to your mental health condition.

The rTMS Centre specializes in this treatment. Clients can even see how rTMS works2 in person before committing to sessions. While some people experience side effects, they’re usually minor.

Alpha-Stim Therapy

In Alpha-Stim therapy,3 clients use a handheld device to send microcurrents to their brain. While this technique is especially effective for people experiencing PTSD, anxiety, depression, and insomnia, many others can still benefit from it. At The Soke, clients can utilize this treatment in relaxation pods after a talk therapy session.

Esketamine

For some clients, severe depressive symptoms remain despite medication and therapy. This is treatment-resistant depression. Fortunately, there are plenty of alternative options available—one of which is esketamine, a version of ketamine available in nasal spray form.4 When used in combination with medication, this prescription nasal spray is more effective than antidepressants alone.

Nightingale Hospital prescribes this spray to both outpatient and inpatient clients. After receiving your diagnosis, you’ll work with a health professional to determine your exact dosage. A psychiatrist will help clients administer this alternative depression treatment5 in 2 phases:

  • an induction phase, in which clients use the spray twice per week for one month
  • a maintenance phase, where treatment frequency lessens to once per week or every other week

However, clients may experience side effects such as dizziness, headaches, nausea, or vertigo. It’s also important to note that certain conditions make you ineligible for this medication. If you’re considering this esketamine in rehab, you’ll discuss your health history with your treatment team to determine if it could work for you.

Electroconvulsive Therapy (ECT)

ECT also treats clients with treatment-resistant depression (TRD).6 During this process, you will be under general anesthesia while electric currents trigger a small seizure in your brain. This procedure can alter your brain chemistry, which may help alleviate depressive symptoms. While this might sound intimidating, experts agree that ECT is safe for most people. According to the National Library of Medicine, “ECT is a relatively safe7 and low-risk procedure.”

At Nightingale Hospital, medical professionals will decide whether ECT is a good fit for you. If it is, you’ll have access to this treatment at 2 different hospitals: St. Charles Hospital, Ladbroke Grove, and Northwick Park Hospital, Harrow. A private nurse escort will accompany you to and from each location to make your journey that much more comfortable.

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Nightingale Hospital is a private mental health facility in Marylebone, the heart of London.

Unique Treatments for Your Specific Needs

Luxury rehabs in London cater to a varied group of people. And because London is one of the most diverse cities in the UK8—if not the world—health professionals are used to accommodating many different needs. Each center has their own unique specialties. It’s possible that one of them will fit your personal preferences.

Treatment for Clients With Eating Disorders

Everyone’s relationship to food is different. And if you have an eating disorder, it might be a little more complicated. For example, you might restrict your eating habits or view food as an emotional escape. Choosing a rehab facility that specializes in eating disorder treatment is crucial. These centers understand how to help you create healthy eating habits so that you can heal from the inside out.

Clients with eating disorders will find a supportive place to heal at Wimbledon Park Clinic This facility specializes in conditions like anorexia nervosa, bulimia nervosa, binge eating disorder (BED), and other specified feeding or eating disorders (OSFED).

Wimbledon Park Clinic has both traditional talk therapies and eating disorder-specific programs. These include body image therapy, nutrition classes, and exposure therapy. During exposure sessions, therapists slowly introduce food-related activities. For example, clients may shop for food, create nutritionally rich recipes, or order a meal in a restaurant under the guidance of specialized staff. This allows them to practice challenging situations they’ll face in real life with professional support. 

Tucked away in the suburbs of South West London, Wimbledon Park Clinic offers a quiet, safe environment for eating disorder treatment.

Flexible Attendance Options: Outpatient and Stepped Care

Responsibilities at home can make outpatient care your best option. For example, you may have children or a full-time job—or both. Some rehab facilities have intensive outpatient programs (IOPs) to fill this need. An outpatient program requires you to attend rehab during the day, but allows you to sleep in your home at night. Some have flexible schedules that clients adjust to fit their needs.

Clients at Schoen Clinic Chelsea can opt for partial or full-day outpatient care. Their stepped care model allows you to complete treatment at your own pace.9 With stepped care,10 clients move through rehab in “steps.” This means they start with the least intensive, most cost effective methods, such as group therapy. From there, they work their way up to more specialized and expensive care, like individual therapy and medication. Specialists will evaluate your progress, and determine when you’re ready to move to the next “step.” This creates a more flexible treatment plan, and lets you attend rehab in a way that works best for you.

Single-Client Treatment

Some clients prefer 1-on-1 care, in which they’re the only person in treatment at the rehab center. A team of health professionals will focus on you and yo​​ur family—and no one else. Because there are no other clients around, you only take part in individual therapy. These highly confidential environments allow for complete anonymity and are perfect for high-profile clients.

At Addcounsel, you’ll have the ability to personalize both your treatment plans and your residence. You’re able to choose the accommodation that best suits you. Treatment is flexible. You’ll work with your personal team to customize everything from your daily schedule to activities. And if in-person therapy doesn’t fit your needs, you can join an online program instead. Addcounsel even has in-home services—meaning their team will give you 24-hour care in your own home. This allows you to feel as comfortable as possible during your recovery journey.

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You can receive treatment at Addcounsel‘s boutique facility in Mayfair, London, or opt for their in-home service.

Tailored Rehab for Arabic Communities 

London has a thriving British-Arab community. According to a 2011 census, the largest population of British Arabs in England11 is in London. Because of this, Addcounsel curated a rehab service for Arabs.12 Their team of Arabic-speaking specialists incorporate their understanding of cultural and religious nuances into treatment. This will help you feel more at ease during your recovery process.

Recovery in London’s Multicultural Atmosphere

With about 9 million people, London is the biggest city in the UK. It’s become an international hub of people from all over the world. These worldly influences reveal themselves in the city’s rich culture.

London’s many museums, movie theaters, and art galleries provide plenty of opportunities for unique cultural experiences. Some rehab centers take clients on excursions to explore the local area. For example, PROMIS London offers outings to museums, shopping areas and cinemas.

Some rehabs even bring the arts into the treatment experience.

Let London’s Arts Inspire Your Creativity 

London emphasizes the arts, and rehab is no exception. A number of treatment centers offer therapies that encourage clients to get creative. That’s because the process of making art can be highly cathartic for those in addiction treatment. Creativity is good for your mental health:13 studies show that engaging in imaginative activities reduces stress,13 decreases anxiety, and helps you process emotions. Nightingale Hospital capitalizes on the healing power of the arts through several types of creative therapy:14

  • dance therapy, in which clients use movement to process and explore emotions
  • art therapy, which can include painting, photography, or sculpting
  • drama therapy,15 which encourages clients to use action to move past traumatic events or emotions
  • music therapy, where clients play or listen to music to better understand their feelings

These therapies allow you to express yourself and work through difficult experiences in a safe space. And who knows—you may even find a new hobby in the process.

Care Close to the City

If you want to stay close to London but would prefer a quieter setting, there are several rehab centers located just outside of the city. For example, you’ll find The Cottage in the Surrey countryside, just under an hour away. Because of its secluded location, clients enjoy a truly private experience—the residence is even hidden from public view. And because of the proximity to nature, this center has plenty of activities that require a natural setting, like horseback riding and fly fishing.

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The Cottage treats 1 client at a time at their Surrey countryside property.

Remember that there’s no right or wrong place to heal, just like there’s no right or wrong way to approach recovery. You get to choose where to begin your journey, whether that’s in the busy capital or the calmer countryside—there are plenty of luxury rehabs in the UK in quieter locations. Regardless of where you go, the weather in and near London will be similar.

London’s Mild Year-Round Climate

The city’s southeast location means London has a relatively temperate climate16—one of the mildest in the UK. The crisp winters boast an average temperature of 42 °F (5.5 °C) in January. The summers are slightly warmer, with daytime temperatures averaging 65 °F (18 °C) in July. 

And contrary to popular belief, the sun does shine. Statistics declare sunshine about 5 days out of 6, although it can be brief. While rain is not uncommon (it’s wet about 165 days of the year), London sees plenty of dry days too. And they’re distributed fairly evenly—it rains equally throughout each season. Sometimes this turns to snow in the winter, but it usually melts quickly.

Overall, London’s weather is quite moderate. It’s much colder up north; the climate in the southern portion of England is toasty in comparison.

The weather isn’t the only thing that’s great about London’s location. It’s also a travel mecca, making it much easier to reach your final destination with ease.

6 International Airports Make Arriving at Rehab Simple

With more international airports than any other city in the world, flying to London17 is easy. Heathrow and London Gatwick are the 2 busiest airports, and you’ll likely fly into one of them if you’re arriving from outside of the UK. The United Kingdom has over 40 airports,18 which also makes it easy to come from a nearby area.

Some rehab facilities organize an airport pickup service for their clients. While London has an extensive public transportation system, navigating it on your own is often overwhelming. Contact your center’s admission team to coordinate your arrival so you’ll begin treatment stress-free.

Rehab in London is Just a Call Away

Whether you already live in the city or want to take advantage of easy access to this well-appointed capital, London is a convenient location to start treatment. Because it’s so well connected to the rest of the world, it’s easy to catch a flight here from almost anywhere. And because it’s such an international city, people of all different backgrounds have a better chance of finding the culturally competent care they need. 
See our curated list of luxury rehabs in London to discover more cutting-edge treatment methods, view self-pay costs, and get prompt access to life-changing care.

The Healing Power of Nature in British Columbia’s Rehabs

Canada’s westernmost province, British Columbia (BC), is famous for its numerous outdoor opportunities in beautiful areas with mountains, lakes, beaches, and forests. Many treatment centers in BC take advantage of the region’s abundant and accessible nature by offering adventure outings such as river rafting, rock climbing, snowboarding, skiing, and more.

The peaceful settings of British Columbia offer space for reflection and growth. Many centers have walking trails and gardens on their grounds to facilitate mindfulness and healing. Several rehab facilities also offer gender-specific treatment, as well as programs tailored for other specific groups, such as Indigenous men or those who value spiritual wellness.

Nature can help you heal and recharge, and BC is a great choice for recovery if close access to the outdoors is important to you.

British Columbia’s Stunning Scenery

British Columbia’s natural geography of mountains, lakes, rivers, and beaches offers plentiful recreation opportunities. In fact, 75% of BC is covered by mountains, and the region boasts more protected areas than any other Canadian province. You’ll find beautiful coastal areas on the western side of the province, and breathtaking mountains on the eastern side.

When planning your stay at a residential treatment center, it’s important to remember that BC has all 4 seasons. If you’re attending a facility here in winter or spring, you’ll get to enjoy crisp weather and access to snow sports. Coastal areas get lots of rain, while the interior mountainous regions see more snow. Summer and fall in BC mean warmer weather and outdoor activities like swimming and hiking.

Being surrounded by nature may allow for a more relaxing, meditative experience. And in fact, this type of mindfulness can have a direct impact on your emotions.1 One study found that participants who walked outdoors for 20 minutes reported feeling more positive than those who walked indoors for the same amount of time.

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Top of the World Ranch in Fort Steele, British Columbia sits on 600 acres of ground surrounded by the beautiful Rocky Mountains.

This region offers many opportunities for outdoor activities with numerous hiking trails, mountain biking routes, rock climbing areas, and more. The parks in BC offer over 3,500 miles of trails 2 (~6,000 kilometers), many of which are located inside the province’s 1000+ provincial parks,3 recreation areas, conservancies, ecological reserves and protected areas.

Treatment Centers Surrounded by Nature

Whether or not you venture outdoors, attending rehab in BC means being surrounded by stunning views. For example, Top of the World Ranch was built on 600 acres in the Canadian Rocky Mountains. You’ll find forests, valleys, and lakes throughout the property. According to their team’s treatment philosophy, this environment offers clients “a great opportunity for growth and introspection, building towards your best self in the relative solitude of pristine natural surroundings.”

The emotional impact of this natural setting was not lost on Sean, a client who attended the treatment facility for 90 days in 2019. “It helped having 600 acres to explore in the Rocky Mountains,” he says. “Top of the World has saved my life, my marriage, and has given me a second chance.”

The Sunshine Coast Health Centre and the Georgia Strait Women’s Clinic both overlook a body of water called the Georgia Strait, in which clients can watch pods of whales and dolphins. You can also enjoy the snow-capped mountains, sandy beaches, and miles of uninhabited wilderness that surround these 2 properties.

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Located in Powell River, British Columbia, Sunshine Coast Health Centre is a men-only residential center with picturesque views.

Adventure Outings

Clients at rehabs in this area can embark on adventure outings in all seasons. In the winter, clients at Sunshine Coast Health Centre, Georgia Strait Women’s Clinic, and Valiant Recovery can go skiing and snowboarding. These activities give residents a break from time spent indoors during recovery.

In the warmer months, Nōmina Wellness takes residents white water rafting and on safaris, while clients at Top of the World Ranch can visit hot springs. Valiant Recovery provides access to a ropes course and zip-lining.

In addition to these off-site adventures, all of these programs allow residents to utilize the hiking and biking trails either on or near their properties. For some clients, this is an essential part of recovery. By engaging with nature, you may be able to heal in a more holistic and fully realized way.

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Located in scenic Kelowna on a comfortable homey property, Valiant Recovery offers immersive hiking experiences at nearby trails.

Treatment in BC Is Tailored to You

Some rehab centers cater to specific demographics. You may prefer to attend a program designed to treat people who share commonalities with you, especially things you deeply value.

Spiritual & Holistic Healing Treatment Centers

Together We Can Drug & Alcohol Recovery & Education Society understands that the 200,000 indigenous people residing in BC4 may prefer to attend treatment programs that are designed with their cultures in mind. Their “All My Relations” program serves this demographic, supporting indigenous men as they heal from substance use disorders.

The staff at this rehab center recognizes that this demographic faces a unique set of challenges, and may have experienced both personal and collective trauma. With that in mind, the program empowers indigenous men to reclaim their cultural identities. Clients take part in traditions such as daily smudging and sweat lodge ceremonies. The recovery center also partners with elders and members of several Indigenous nations to provide workshops, ensuring that clients have access to the best possible care.

Chopra Addiction and Wellness Center focuses on spirituality, and is endorsed by Deepak Chopra, a well-known advocate for alternative medicine. The treatment facility combines Eastern practices with Western medicine to create a program that allows for spiritual growth. “We are very different in that we recognize that addiction is also a search for spiritual well-being,” says Chopra.

Chopra Addiction and Wellness Center is located on 10 acres of land along the banks of the Cheakamus River in Squamish, BC for a peaceful experience set deep in nature. In addition to individual and group therapy, clients can also participate in mindfulness activities like yoga, meditation, acupuncture, guided hikes, Ayurvedic massage, and art therapy. If you’d like to focus on spiritual healing during treatment, this program might meet your needs.

Gender-Specific Treatment

If you feel more at ease with members of your own gender, you may consider attending a program that offers gender-specific treatment.

Georgia strait womens clinic
Georgia Strait Women’s Clinic is a women-only center in a boutique-style home overlooking the Pacific Ocean in Powell River, British Columbia.

Sunshine Coast Health Centre and Inspire Change Wellness Center are both men’s only treatment centers, while Georgia Strait Women’s Clinic and Westminster House only cater to women. Westwind Counselling’s residential care is women-only, but they serve all genders in a separate online program.

Men and women may experience different societal pressure and stressors. You may prefer to be among those of your own gender if you are currently healing from trauma or seeking treatment for an issue that members of your gender are more likely to experience.

If you don’t identify with a gender binary, this may not be an important factor in your search. Additionally, you may wish to find an identity-affirming rehab with programming expressly designed to make you feel safe, seen and accepted.

Treatment for Eating Disorders

Westwind Counselling is Canada’s first private eating disorder recovery facility. This program helps clients heal from anorexia nervosa, bulimia nervosa, binge eating disorder, avoidant/restrictive food intake disorder (ARFID), and orthorexia. They offer online treatment options for all genders as well as in-person care for women, and don’t require clients to first obtain a formal diagnosis. Westwind teaches clients about mindful eating, body acceptance, and emotional well-being. Research shows that these are all core components of treatment for eating disorders.5 This program helps clients feel more at home in their own bodies, empowering them to make healthier choices in the long term.

Vancouver’s Natural Diversity

Several centers are located either in or close to Vancouver. Together We Can Drug & Alcohol Recovery & Education Society is in the city itself, and numerous other treatment centers are within an hour’s drive. These programs have the best of both worlds: access to the great outdoors, and proximity to a thriving urban hub.

Diversity and Inclusion Is a Priority

Vancouver has a very diverse population,6 and has been ranked as the most livable city in Canada7 and the 16th worldwide, according to a 2021 report by the Economist Intelligence Unit. The study looked at stability, health care, culture and environment, education, and infrastructure of every major city in the world.

Perhaps because of its diversity, the city’s government is committed to creating a welcoming environment for all of its citizens. City staff meet with local community groups and agencies to better understand and meet the needs of residents. Officials emphasize programs for childcare, Indigenous peoples, youth, disadvantaged seniors, multicultural and diverse communities, and more. These priorities are reflected in their Healthy City Strategy,8 a plan with 13 different goals all aimed at making living in Vancouver better for everyone.

Vancouver has the 3rd largest urban Indigenous population of any Canadian city.9 Their Urban Indigenous Peoples’ Advisory Committee works with the city to ensure that Indigenous peoples have equal access to and are included in any new plans and procedures. Vancouver’s city council also determined that the unceded land in Vancouver still belongs to the Musqueam, Squamish, and Tsleil-Waututh Nations10 in a unanimous vote in 2014.

Vancouver is home to the biggest LGBTQ+ community11 and hosts the largest Pride parade in Western Canada. The event takes place every year during Pride Week and is put on by the Vancouver Pride Society, a not-for-profit organization that is committed to strengthening their community by ensuring that Vancouver’s LGBTQ+ population feels represented and included.

Explore the Outdoors in Vancouver Treatment Centers

There are many places to recreate in Vancouver. Residents and tourists alike enjoy access to many outdoor areas, including Lynn Canyon, Grouse Mountain, Deep Cove, and more. Stanley Park, located in downtown Vancouver, includes miles of trails, stunning beaches, cultural and historical landmarks in an area of 1000+ acres. Vancouver locals highly value access to nature.

Rehab centers in the area share that value. You may or may not be able to explore the city on your own during your stay, depending on your health status and your program’s approach to treatment. However, most Vancouver rehabs include plenty of outdoor space; some even have private beaches. Even if you remain on-site at a rehab for the duration of treatment, you’ll be able to enjoy this beautiful landscape.

A Temperate Climate

Vancouver rarely sees snow, and the winters are some of the most mild in Canada. If you decide to seek treatment in BC during the winter season but prefer more temperate weather, Vancouver may be a good option for you.

Planning Travel to British Columbia

British Columbia is easily accessible by car or plane. Because there are 5 main airports in the region, you can easily choose one close to your treatment center. Most facilities offer transportation directly to and from the airport. Make sure that you check with your admissions team before booking any travel, to find out which options are available.

A Peaceful Path Toward Recovery

Traveling to British Columbia can offer a new and peaceful space to start your recovery process. The variable landscape and climate allow you to choose which kind of environment you’d like to be in during treatment, whether that’s in a busy city like Vancouver, or a more peaceful, rural area. And in either setting, you can expect to spend plenty of time outdoors.

Visit our list of luxury treatment centers in beautiful British Columbia to see photos, read reviews, and more.


FAQ

How much does treatment cost in BC?

The cost of addiction treatment in BC varies by factors such as treatment type, length, and location. Some rehabs offer financial aid or insurance.

What are addiction treatment programs like in BC?

Rehabs in BC often offer experiential therapies that make the most of their naturally beautiful surroundings. Private rehabs provide tailored treatment, which may include holistic therapies.

Can I find women’s or LBGTQ+-affirming treatment in BC, Canada?

Yes. Some rehabs in BC offer specialized programs for certain client groups, including women and LBGTQ+ individuals.

Finding the Right Rehab for Your Teen or Young Adult

Anyone can struggle with substance use. Whatever your age, gender, job, or relationship status, you deserve to get the care you need. However, it can sometimes be hard to know what interventions would be most helpful. This is especially true for teens with substance use disorders.

Substance use during adolescence may have long-term effects on brain chemistry.1 For example, “cocaine exposure during adolescence may lead to miswiring in the developing brain and result in long-lasting behavioral problems, such as increased risk-taking, in adulthood.” Because of this, it’s especially important to get teens the help they need in order to begin recovery.

Young people may not always be able to recognize that they need help. And even when they do, they may not be legally or financially capable of seeking that help on their own. Whether you’re a teen or an adult caring for a teen with substance use disorder, the good news is that (specialized) treatment is widely available. Many luxury rehabs offer programs created specifically for younger clients.

If you’re considering rehab for your teen, it’s important to understand the different options available. Depending on the client’s age and geographical location, there may be certain types of treatment that are more appropriate. This decision will also be influenced by your teen’s unique history, diagnoses, and treatment goals.

Reasons for Teen Substance Use

Research suggests that “the human brain is still maturing during the adolescent years.2 The developing brain may help explain why adolescents sometimes make decisions that are risky and can lead to safety or health concerns, including unique vulnerabilities to drug abuse.”

Beyond the simple fact of their age, there are many elements that impact a young person’s likelihood to misuse substances. Among them are risk factors, which make substance use more likely, and protective factors, which guard against these behaviors.

These external influences change with a person’s age. While that’s true for all clients, these changes occur more drastically in children, adolescents, and young adults. For example, middle school students who are too harshly disciplined are at greater risk for substance use disorders. Receiving support from extended family, on the other hand, makes substance abuse less likely in this population. Slightly older adolescents are at greater risk for substance misuse3 when they lack adult supervision, and at lower risk when family members set clear expectations.

Also, teens are experiencing heightened stress4 in this turbulent era of history. According to one study, even teens who had not experienced early life stress—such as neglect or abuse—were prone to “increases in anxiety and depression symptoms” during 2020. In this context, young people may be at a greater risk of developing mental health conditions than they once were.

It’s impossible to guard against every single circumstance that increases the risk of teen substance misuse. However, it can be helpful to familiarize yourself with some of the most prevalent risk factors. Whether or not you’re able to protect yourself or your teen from these stressors, knowing what they are may empower you to get help when it’s needed.

Parental Substance Use

If an adolescent is close to an adult who has a substance use disorder,5 they may be at a higher risk for developing one themselves. For some young people, this is simply a way of enacting the same behavior they’ve seen modeled. Others may use substances in order to cope with the stress of an unstable home life.

Strained familial relationships, financial insecurity, and similar issues can be hugely impactful. However, instability refers to more than these external circumstances. These teens may also have genetic predispositions to substance use disorders, as well as other mental health diagnoses.

Co-Occurring Disorders

Certain mental health concerns, such as depression and ADHD,6 make teens and young adults more likely to misuse substances. In some cases, this is an attempt to self-medicate. However, it’s not always that simple.

For teens with multiple diagnoses, the root cause of substance use can easily become a question of the chicken or the egg. As their brain chemistry continues to change, due to either normal development or unhealthy habits, they may begin to develop co-occurring disorders that make substance use even more appealing.

Whatever the cause of this behavior, few teens have the resources to pull out of this cycle without external interventions. In some cases, inpatient treatment is the most effective way to begin recovery.

Choosing a Rehab for a Young Adult

Timberline Knolls
Several rehabs offer specialized adolescent programs. Set in Lemont, Illinois, Timberline Knolls has a program for young women with co-occuring disorders.

If you’re a parent or guardian supporting a struggling teenager, it can be difficult to know what’s best for them. And even if you’re confident that they should go to rehab, you may or may not be legally allowed to make that decision on their behalf.

In some U.S. states, a parent can unilaterally decide to send a teen to rehab. In other areas, minors’ consent is also required. This varies widely based on the client’s exact age and geographical location. It’s best to learn what your family’s options are before making any specific plans regarding residential treatment.

The client’s age will also help determine which treatment program is best for them. For example, while it may seem that children and younger teens are more likely to grow out of a difficult phase, they may actually be in greater need of interventions. According to one study, “people are most likely to begin abusing drugs during adolescence,7 and the longer adolescents defer experimentation, the less likely they are to develop long-term drug abuse problems.”

Luxury rehabs often treat a wide variety of mental health concerns, not limited to substance use disorders. Teens and young adults may also benefit from rehab if they’re struggling with eating disorders, personality disorders, or even PTSD. Each of these diagnoses requires a slightly different approach to treatment, possibly including different levels of family involvement.

Some teens are able to live at home during treatment, receiving in-person support from family and friends while they begin recovery. Others may benefit from traveling to rehab. This gives clients both physical and emotional space from the challenges of daily life. It can also teach young people to set boundaries with those who enable their substance use. While this change of scenery may seem drastic, it has the potential to be extremely helpful. Remember that there is no one right way to heal; just the right way for each individual person.

Types of Teen Rehab Programs

If and when you’re ready to choose a rehab center, it’s best to learn as much as possible about the available options. Various programs specialize in treating different conditions, and each takes a unique approach to the process of healing. Because of this, it’s best to choose a facility that is qualified to meet your teen’s unique needs.

Substance Use and Eating Disorders

Eating disorders are extremely common among adolescents. As of 2018, as many as 10% of young women suffered from an eating disorder.8 What’s more, a growing body of research links eating disorders with addiction.9 One theory even suggests that anorexia nervosa is in fact “an addiction to the body’s endogenous opioids.” A number of luxury rehabs focus on helping clients with one or both of these diagnoses.

Gender-Specific Treatment

For some clients, having space from people of different genders can feel like a much-needed break. This gender-specific approach to recovery may be especially helpful for adolescents. Studies show that young men and women exhibit “unique patterns of substance use,”10 and may therefore benefit from distinct approaches to treatment.

Some rehabs, like the adolescent program Timberline Knolls, focus on treating young women. The program at Foothills at Red Oak Recovery, on the other hand, is tailored to meet the needs of young men, as well as non-binary and gender non-conforming teens. Although it is an LGBTQ+-affirming rehab, it is probably not the right fit for cis women.

Foothills at Red Oak
Foothills at Red Oak in Ellenboro, North Carolina has specialized programs for young men, non-binary and gender non-conforming teens.

In this protected environment, clients are invited to explore their developing identities. According to staff, “​​Adolescence is a time of self-discovery and identity formation…If one successfully navigates the tasks during this stage of life, one emerges with a solid sense of identity. This is a sense of knowing oneself despite the chaos and pressures of the world around them and is paramount to making healthy, value-based decisions.”

Experiential Therapy

Experiential therapy can be hugely beneficial for people of all ages. In this group of modalities, you may go skiing, river rafting, or rock climbing. Some rehabs even take their clients on adventure outings, where they might hike the lip of a volcano or swim with the dolphins.

These experiences aren’t just fun excursions; they’re also ways to practice the skills learned in talk therapy in a different context. They can also encourage clients to develop new hobbies, and help to restore the connection between mind and body. The latter is especially important for teens in recovery.

By surfing, horseback riding, or just playing sports, young people can get back in touch with their bodies and learn how it feels to be physically healthy. Experts theorize that this has a lasting impact on their continued sobriety and health. According to one study, “continued physical health for rehabilitated adolescent drug addicts is crucial…since it could enhance the effectiveness of rehabilitation.”11

With this in mind, some adolescent rehab programs have a special focus on physical activity. Pacific Quest, for example, is a wilderness therapy program located on Hawaii’s Big Island. Here, clients participate in outdoor programming which may include hiking, paddle boarding, swimming, sailing, and more. Participants also perform community service during their time in residence. Through this process, they are encouraged to learn how to engage with nature, their communities, and themselves in a healthy way.

Personalized Treatment

There are numerous ways to approach recovery. Although many teens benefit from highly structured rehab programs, others may require a more nuanced approach. For these clients, personalized treatment may be the best option.

Pacific Teen Treatment, for example, treats only six clients at a time. Each teen is assigned a primary, secondary, and family therapist. Their team of providers works together to carry out a highly individualized plan of care. This approach may not be appropriate for all clients—especially those who want to focus on improving their interpersonal dynamics within a larger cohort. But it can be extremely effective for families who are committed to healing their relationships with one another.

Family Therapy

Adolescent substance misuse impacts family dynamics.12 According to one group of experts, “every chemically dependent person has a significant impact on the lives of several other people.” Because of this, it’s important for the parents, siblings, and other relatives of these clients to engage in their own healing processes.

In many cases, family therapy is a productive way to approach this. Most adolescent rehab programs offer some version of family therapy. This may include in-person sessions, video chats, or regularly scheduled phone calls.

Pacific Teen Treatment
A peek inside the calming environment at Pacific Teen Treatment in Malibu, California, where family therapy is a key area of focus.

Some facilities may limit clients’ communication with people outside of their cohort. Often, these programs restrict cell phone use during rehab. Others may prohibit calls or visits at the beginning of the program, but encourage this type of contact after some time has passed. Every rehab has its own unique guidelines, and those guidelines may vary from one client to another.

Therapy isn’t easy. This process may bring up traumatic memories and shine a light on difficult family dynamics. Even so, it is often an essential component of helping a teen recover from substance misuse.

Growing Beyond Substance Use

Substance use disorders are serious conditions. At any age, and especially for teenagers, this behavior should not be dismissed as “just a phase.” That being said, it can be temporary. It’s always possible to heal and grow beyond unhealthy habits.

A person’s adolescent years are powerfully creative. Over time, teens will inevitably learn more about themselves, defining their identities and discovering their own needs, goals, and values. It’s extremely important to connect these clients with the help they need and deserve. It’s also important to trust the process.

To see reviews, virtually tour facilities, and more, see our curated list of adolescent rehab programs.


Frequently Asked Questions About Rehab Programs for Teens

Why are teen rehabs important for addressing substance abuse and mental health in adolescents?

Teen rehabs play a crucial role in providing specialized treatment for adolescents who face substance abuse and mental health issues. Through therapy, education, and support, these programs help teens and young adults overcome challenges and develop skills for long-term recovery.

What treatment approaches are used in teen rehabs?

Teen rehabs use a variety of treatment approaches:

evidence-based treatment, such as cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT); 
• individual and group counseling; 
• experiential therapies, like adventure outings;
• family therapy; 
• and more.

These approaches aim to address the unique needs of teenagers and support their physical, emotional, and psychological well-being.

How long do teens typically stay in rehab?

The duration of teen rehab programs vary depending on the severity of the issue, individual needs, and treatment plans. Most programs range from 30 to 90 days, while others extend for longer. The focus is to provide comprehensive support and equip teens with the tools for sustainable recovery.

Understanding Eating Disorders and What to Look For in Treatment

black and white image; woman measure waistline

Many misperceive eating disorders as a lifestyle choice. You might even believe some of these stereotypes yourself—that you’re vain, self-absorbed, weak, or lazy because of the way you think about food. This simply isn’t true.

We all have an emotional reaction to eating food; specific dishes can elicit feelings or memories. We describe certain cuisines as “comfort food.” For some people, food can turn into a “drug” of choice—one they turn to cope with depression, anxiety, or a desire to escape. But the belief that people who struggle with these conditions chose to live this way is dangerous. In reality, research continues to show that conditions like anorexia and bulimia are serious mental health conditions1 that require professional care from experienced counselors.

No matter where you’re at in the recovery journey, it’s important to recognize that your emotional response to eating and your experience with food will be entirely different from anyone else’s. No two stories will ever be completely identical. Eating disorders aren’t a choice; they’re a mental illness often linked with biological disorders outside of your control.

tabula rasa retreat eating disorder treatment
Holistic treatments at Tabula Rasa Retreat in Portugal include mindfulness meditation, bodywork, breathwork, kundalini yoga, healing sound therapy, and light therapy.

Types of Eating Disorders

You might have obsessive thoughts about food or reach for a certain type of meal when you’re feeling sad or unsure of something. For some, unhealthy eating behaviors are focused more on weight and body image than the feelings associated with eating. People most often seek treatment for three types of eating disorders: bulimia, anorexia and binge-eating disorder.

Signs of Bulimia

If you suffer from bulimia, you likely experience recurrent, uncontrollable episodes wherein you eat large amounts of food without being able to stop. As a response to those feelings, you might react by trying to “purge” your body of the food. Whether by vomiting, laxatives, obsessive exercise or fasting, these reactions can be extremely harmful or even deadly.

Signs of Anorexia

Control is often central to anorexia; you might be withholding food from yourself, or only eating in very small portions. Intense feelings of self-consciousness or poor body image could be convincing you that you shouldn’t be eating. Anorexia has one of highest mortality rates among mental illnesses.2 By withholding nutrients from your body, your bones and muscles may start to break down, leading to multiorgan failure. That’s why sufferers of this disorder need the highest quality treatment and care possible.

Signs of Binge-Eating Disorder

Everyone has a different trigger, but if something inside you forces you to eat uncontrollably without stopping, you may be experiencing a binge-eating disorder. Hallmark signs of binge-eating disorder include eating alone due to feeling embarrassed by the amount of food you’re eating, and feeling disgusted with yourself or very guilty after a binge-eating episode. Unlike bulimia, you do not counter the binge with purging.

dara thailand eating disorder treatment
DARA Thailand offers recovery-friendly, balanced meals prepared by trained chefs who utilize the vibrancy of Thailand’s bountiful, fresh, local produce.

What to Look For in an Eating Disorder Treatment Center

Mapping out a successful treatment plan starts with getting to know you, unpacking the feelings you experience around food and creating healthy habits in place of your current eating regimen. While there’s no single correct approach to eating disorder treatment, full recovery is possible and within reach. Because there are so many different ways to treat eating disorders and the co-occurring mental illnesses associated with anorexia, binge-eating or bulimia, it’s important to find a program that resonates with you.

Options for Care

  • Psychotherapy
  • Nutritional counseling
  • Lifestyle coaching
  • Talk therapy
  • Biochemical restoration
  • Reflexology
  • Fitness training
  • On-site nutritionist
  • Family therapy
  • Meal preparation education
  • Support group meetings
  • Acupuncture

There are several other factors to consider when seeking treatment, which we’ll look at below.

A Treatment Center Specializing in Eating Disorder Treatment

Although drug and alcohol addiction and other mental health disorders often share the same treatment approach, it’s important to find a treatment facility that specializes in eating disorder treatment. This seems obvious, but some treatment centers will say they treat eating disorders when you may actually be a better fit elsewhere. Because unlike drugs or alcohol, which you can abstain from, you need to eat. Your recovery looks different and you need support in that, rather than being one of the few who struggle with eating disorders at a particular center (though this applies less so to treatment providers who only take a few clients at a time).

An On-Site Dietician

Nutrition is an important intervention in eating disorder treatment.3 According to the American Dietetic Association, “Medical Nutrition Therapy provided by a registered dietitian trained in the area of eating disorders plays a significant role in the treatment and management of eating disorders.”

Accredited dieticians can assess your nutritional deficiencies, create a customized meal plan for your stay and equip you with maintenance skills like grocery shopping, cooking and meal planning for a successful recovery. Beyond considerations for your physical health, eating disorder-specialized dietitians also understand the roles of emotions, psychological conditions and family dynamics in your eating behaviors.

paracelsus recovery eating disorder treatment
Paracelsus Recovery Switzerland staffs nutritional experts, spiritual counselors, psychologists and psychiatrists, tailoring care to one client at a time.

Family Programming

Newer treatment methods recognize the importance of the family system in eating disorders4—both as a cause and as part of the solution. And as research shows, this approach is having a positive impact on treatment. According to Thomas Insel, an American psychiatrist, neuroscientist and former director of the National Institute of Mental Health,

“Outcomes appear much better if parents are empowered and included, rather than excluded, from the treatment. In fact, a carefully controlled trial evaluating the effectiveness of a family-based treatment approach found 50 percent of participants continued to experience full remission one year after the end of therapy.”

Family plays a role in all mental health and addiction cases, and eating disorders are no exception. For the best chances of success, look for a center that involves family members in your treatment.

Holistic Treatment Approach

Many luxury rehabs offer a wide variety of wellness modalities that encourage all-encompassing spiritual, mental and physical healing. For example, Tabula Rasa Retreat’s holistic program options include mindfulness meditation, bodywork, breathwork, kundalini yoga, healing sound therapy, and light therapy—all of which is available on an extended aftercare basis for those who choose to stay on at the resort after completing their treatment program.

Program Options at Luxury Eating Disorder Rehabs

With an incredible staff-to-client ratio to ensure you get the individualized treatment you deserve and high-end activities like yoga, animal therapy and outdoor excursions, luxury eating disorder recovery centers provide unparalleled, comprehensive healing.

Here are some examples of the program options you’ll find at top-tier rehabs, and how they can make a difference in your recovery:

Professionally Prepared Meals

At many luxury treatment centers, your diet is well attended to by chefs who consult with your clinical team to create a meal plan that meets your nutritional needs and personal preferences. If food is typically a problem for you, thoughtfully planned, delicious, nourishing meals make eating healthily that much easier. DARA Rehab in Thailand ensures this by staffing trained chefs who utilize the vibrancy of Thailand’s bountiful, fresh, local produce to create excellent food for all their guests. Carefully prepared meals will help you find a healthy balance again.

Tailored Treatment

Most luxury care programs offer completely personalized and tailored treatment designed specifically to help guide you towards recovery. Paracelcus Recovery is an outstanding example of this, with programming fully customized to serve one client at a time. With dedicated therapists, nutritional experts, spiritual counselors, psychologists and psychiatrists on staff, you’ll have peace of mind that each of your exact needs can be met with an expert level of care.

Overcoming an Eating Disorder Starts With Finding the Right Rehab

Admitting you or someone you love is suffering from a dangerous eating disorder can be one of the most important decisions you’ll ever make. But recognizing the outward signs doesn’t necessarily mean you’ll be equipped to recover on your own. Finding the right treatment facilities and care programs is an integral part of the fight against eating disorders.

To learn more about available programs from top centers worldwide, discover luxury rehab centers specializing in eating disorders here.


Frequently Asked Questions About Eating Disorder Treatment

What should I look for in a rehab center for eating disorder treatment?

When looking for an eating disorder treatment center, consider factors like the expertise of the treatment team, the availability of evidence-based therapies, the focus on holistic healing, and the comfort and quality of accommodations.

What types of treatment are available for eating disorders?

Treatment for eating disorders may include a combination of individual and group therapy, CBT, family therapy, nutritional counseling, and medication. Additionally, some luxury rehab centers may offer holistic treatments like art therapy, yoga, and meditation to promote overall wellness. Treatment plans are typically customized to meet the individual’s unique needs and may change as progress is made.

How long does eating disorder treatment typically last?

The length of eating disorder treatment varies depending on your individual needs and the severity of the disorder. Programs can last for several months to a year or more.