Can You Leave Rehab Whenever You Want?

The question of whether you can leave rehab whenever you want carries significant implications, particularly when considering the various consequences of leaving rehab AMA (against medical advice). Whether voluntarily seeking treatment or mandated by legal authorities, individuals may grapple with the notion of leaving rehab prematurely. The experts at our Lake Worth drug rehab share the complexities surrounding the decision to leave rehab, shedding light on the potential legal, medical, and personal ramifications. Delving into the factors that influence this choice and the repercussions that may follow, we aim to provide insights into the dynamics of addiction treatment and the importance of informed decision-making in the journey toward lasting recovery.

What Happens If You Leave Rehab Against Medical Advice?

Yes, you can leave rehab whenever you want, but it’s not always beneficial. Leaving early from rehab refers to leaving addiction treatment anytime under 30 days, though that depends on several factors. Leaving treatment early refers to checking out against medical advice or AMA. 

Leaving AMA from rehab can have several short- and long-term effects. It’s crucial to remember that rehab programs are made to offer people who are trying to recover from substance abuse or other behavioral health problems structured support. Early departure may negatively impact the individual’s general health and the efficacy of the treatment. 

On that note, some possible outcomes of leaving rehab AMA include: 

• Relapse risk increased: There is a significant increase in the risk of relapsing after leaving AMA rehab. A rehabilitation facility’s controlled atmosphere is intended to assist people in creating coping strategies, attending to underlying problems, and forming healthier routines. People who depart too soon might not be prepared to deal with obstacles and triggers in their everyday surroundings.
• Unresolved underlying issues: Therapeutic interventions are frequently a part of rehab programs aimed at addressing psychological, emotional, or trauma-related issues that may be underlying causes of substance abuse or addictive behaviors. Remaining unresolved may impede long-term recovery if you leave AMA from rehab.
• Deteriorating health: Leaving AMA rehab may lead to a decline in one’s physical or mental state of health, depending on the severity of the addiction or underlying medical conditions. Absentencing from rehab too soon can result in complications or health risks because the detoxification process and medical monitoring are essential components of the program.
• Tense relationships with healthcare professionals: Leaving against medical advice may cause tension in the person’s relationship with healthcare professionals. Re-engaging with the healthcare system later on may be difficult as a result of its potential to undermine the trust and cooperation required for successful treatment.
• Effect on legal or employment status: Rehab admissions can be a requirement for certain jobs or legal agreements. Leaving AMA could have repercussions for employment requirements or legal obligations, which could cause problems down the road or cause job instability.
• Financial repercussions: Leaving early may have financial repercussions based on the type of rehab facility and payment plans. Although certain establishments might have refund policies, departing early may result in losses.
• Missed opportunities for growth: Rehabilitation offers a disciplined setting for learning, developing skills, and personal development. Leaving AMA means losing out on these chances to build coping mechanisms, resilience, and a solid basis for a life free of drugs.

We urge anyone thinking about quitting rehab against doctor’s orders to be upfront and honest with their medical professionals. To investigate potential solutions or modifications to the treatment plan, they should talk about their worries, annoyances, or reservations. If leaving is still the preferred course of action, arrange for continuing assistance, such as 12-step programs, outpatient therapy, or other local resources.

What Happens If You Leave Court-Ordered Rehab?

Going to rehab isn’t always a voluntary choice. Court-ordered rehab is a form of alternative sentencing for people who have been convicted of a drug-related crime. A person may also be forced to go to rehab by loved ones via acts such as Florida’s Marchman Act. 

In cases of court-ordered rehab, however, the individual is sentenced to rehab rather than jail because the judge believes drug addiction treatment would be more effective than incarceration. This is usually the case for non-violent, first-time offenders, as incarceration is usually more expensive and less effective.¹

If sentenced to court-ordered rehab, the individual is required to enroll in a treatment program specified by the courts. This may include outpatient or residential treatment, individual and/or group counseling, 12-step groups, or some other form of approved treatment. 

Someone who is sentenced to court-ordered rehab may choose to violate the sentence by refusing to enroll in treatment or stop attending treatment before they’ve completed the program. They may also violate their sentencing by possessing or selling drugs or relapsing multiple times. 

If a person leaves court-ordered rehab early, consequences may include: 

• Legal repercussions: Discharging from court-ordered treatment could have legal repercussions, like breaking probation. The individual might be charged with additional crimes or punished, and the court might issue an order for their arrest.
• Return to custody: If the person is on probation or parole and their departure from treatment constitutes a breach of the court’s ordered terms, they might have to go back into custody. This can entail spending the balance of their term behind bars or in prison.
• Increased scrutiny: Completing court-ordered treatment may result in heightened criminal justice system scrutiny. The court might reevaluate their case and impose harsher requirements or fines upon their release.
• Extension of supervision: If someone leaves treatment early, the court may decide to extend their probation or parole period. This might lengthen the court supervision period and raise the possibility of legal repercussions for subsequent violations.
• Therapy modification: If someone leaves rehab against the court’s orders, the court has the authority to change their treatment plan. This might entail different rehabilitation programs, more oversight, or more intensive treatment.
• Loss of benefits: Leaving court-ordered treatment may occasionally result in the loss of certain rights or advantages, like the ability to participate in diversionary programs, receive shorter sentences, or be eligible for other advantageous terms.

Court-mandated rehab is frequently a component of a comprehensive addiction treatment plan. Individuals who are sentenced to court-ordered rehab should be open and honest with their legal counsel and treatment providers if they have questions about the program or experience difficulties while receiving treatment. Seeking advice before deciding to depart can assist individuals in navigating possible outcomes and investigating substitute options that support their rehabilitation objectives.

Finding a Rehab Close to Me

Although the idea of going to rehab can be intimidating, it can turn your life around. Addiction can strip your life of joy, health, and purpose, leaving a myriad of problems in its wake. If you or a loved one has decided to turn a new leaf, our rehab in Palm Beach County can help. 

Behavioral Health of the Palm Beaches offers addiction treatment in Lake Worth for all kinds of drugs and alcohol.  Clients’ treatment plans, administered at various levels of care, are created based on their needs to increase their chances of success. 

For more information about our addiction treatment or detox in Palm Beach County, call BHOPB today at 561-220-3981 or reach out to us online. 

Source: 

1. American Academy of Addiction Psychiatry – Criminal Justice System and Substance Use Disorder Treatment Policy