Many individuals living in a rural community may feel hopeless when facing addiction. These rural areas typically have less access to addiction resources and treatment services. Due to this lack of resources, it is not uncommon for people to continue substance use or try quitting alone, both of which can be dangerous.
NorthStar Transitions understands the challenges faced by people within rural communities when it comes to addiction. We have experience treating people from these areas despite our urban location. Because we understand these challenges and have worked with individuals from these communities, we can help you if you feel stuck trying to achieve recovery in a rural setting. Know you are not alone and that treatment is available even if it does not feel that way.
Some people do not consider geographical factors when seeking addiction treatment. They might search “addiction treatment centers near me” and make do with what they find. This may or may not yield the best results.
A more reliable method would be for people to research the best facility for them, even if it requires them to venture a little further out. For example, people may want a facility that offers dual diagnosis treatment. They may require a specific treatment model or a program that caters to their specific demographic. It may be worth it for people in a rural community to travel if that means they receive the best care.
People in rural areas face unique challenges when seeking addiction treatment. Research indicates that there is a growing need for substance use treatment among people in rural areas. Unfortunately, these studies show that these rural areas are “disproportionately disadvantaged” because they lack access to basic services.
Some of the most notable challenges individuals with addiction in rural communities face include:
That is not to say that individuals in these areas are incapable of achieving recovery. A lack of access to treatment, experience working with resources, or connections to help them simply makes it more challenging for them to achieve recovery.
Another thing to consider is how difficult it is for parents to seek proper addiction treatment within a rural community. Urban communities may have more access to childcare in addition to treatment programs. Many parents are unable to seek addiction and mental health treatment because there is no one to watch their children.
In addition, there may also be a lack of support groups, communities, and like-minded individuals who can help people stay sober when they return home from a treatment program.
There are some upsides to living in a rural community when it comes to mental health. In 2019, Dr. Julia Fraga wrote an article published by Healthline that discusses the impact of city life on mental health. The article, titled “Here's How Living in a City Can Mess with Your Mental Health," claims that urbanites are more likely to experience anxiety and mood disorders. Dr. Fraga also cites research that indicates rates of mental health conditions like post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), anger management, and generalized anxiety disorder (GAD) are higher among people urbanites.
Several circumstances can lead to the likelihood of developing a mental health condition regardless of where you live. However, it is interesting to consider how our environments can impact our mental health. A rural community may offer:
This is not to say that everyone in rural communities experiences these benefits. There are pros and cons to urban and rural living. However, these benefits can be silver linings as you embark on your recovery journey within your rural community.
NorthStar Transitions has been able to help many individuals recover from addiction. Our programs are designed to meet each client's needs, goals, and expectations. These custom-designed programs account for medical history, unique needs, and lifestyle preferences.
That includes your living situation. If you live in a rural community and lack access to additional services and resources, we can create an aftercare plan for you that takes this into account.
People in rural communities may especially benefit from our residential treatment program and alumni program. So, even if you are further out, you can stay connected to peers, professionals, and others from NorthStar upon completing treatment and transitioning from our facility back to everyday life. With us, you do not need to worry about rural living preventing you from staying sober.
For those living in a rural community, addiction treatment is sometimes easier said than done. Living in a rural area has some benefits. People experience lower stress levels, increased privacy, and a stronger sense of community. However, rural communities tend to be more secluded, in this case, from therapists, treatment facilities, and other mental health services. This can make seeking treatment more difficult. However, it does not make it impossible. At NorthStar Transitions, we understand the unique challenges you face as a person living in a rural community with an addiction. Our programs can effectively address these challenges and help you create a life of sobriety. To learn how we can help, call (303) 558-6400 today.
