Drug and alcohol addiction can impact every part of a person’s life. It can negatively affect relationships, health, daily functioning, and more.

Even though addiction can cause so much harm, few people get the help they need to overcome substance use disorder (SUD). Studies show that only about one in ten people with SUD get rehab treatment.

People may have many reasons for not seeking addiction treatment. One of the most common reasons people may not seek treatment is a fear of judgment. People may worry that rehab will show up on a background check. But what is the truth?

This article will explore if rehab will appear on your permanent record.

If you or someone you love struggles with substance abuse or addiction, you are not alone. Contact the intake team at Alamo Behavioral Health to learn about your treatment options. You may also reach out to ask questions or schedule an intake appointment.

Does Rehab Go on Your Permanent Record?

Drug and alcohol addiction treatment can help people identify and address the complex roots of substance abuse. In rehab, people get the support, supervision, and therapies. This treatment allows them to overcome the physical, behavioral, and emotional aspects of their addiction. People learn the skills they need to put addiction in the past, avoid relapse, and work toward a healthier future.

Although going to rehab can be life-saving, many people don’t seek treatment. Many worry that going to rehab will follow them for years. They may have concerns that going to rehab will affect their ability to get a job, maintain child custody, and more.

But what is the truth? Does rehab go on your permanent record?

In short, rehab does not appear on your permanent record. In most cases, people choose to attend rehab. Even in cases of court-ordered treatment, federal regulations protect your medical information.

No one should feel embarrassed or ashamed to get addiction treatment. Addiction is a complex condition that requires treatment. Getting treatment can help you overcome substance abuse and move forward.

Alamo Behavioral Health accepts many major insurance plans, including:

Check if my insurance covers rehab

Does Rehab Show Up on a Background Check?

People may worry that going to rehab will appear on a background check. However, this information is private and protected. Here is a quick overview of the laws protecting information about rehab stays.

The Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA)

FMLA protects people’s employment while they seek treatment for mental health and substance use disorders. People who use FMLA do not have to disclose the reason for their leave or grant permission to medical records to their employer.

The Americans With Disabilities Act (ADA)

The ADA prohibits employers and others from discriminating against people with disabilities, including substance abuse.

Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA)

The Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act of 1996 (HIPAA) maintains patient confidentiality and protects medical records. HIPAA laws ensure that rehab facilities cannot share patient information without the patient’s written consent. It also requires insurance companies to carefully protect information about people’s medical treatment.

These laws ensure that information about attending rehab remains private. People can seek the addiction treatment they need without worrying about others accessing this information.

What to Expect in Rehab

Each person has unique needs during rehab and throughout their recovery journey. There are many types of treatment programs and levels of care.

People may attend inpatient or outpatient programs at different stages of recovery. Generally, rehab programs include:

• Assessments and screenings
• Medical detox programs
• Medications and medical care
• Behavioral therapies
• Individual and group counseling
• Support and therapy for family members
• Relapse prevention education
• Holistic therapies like exercise, yoga, mindfulness, creative expression, and more
• Aftercare planning and support programs

A rehab program can provide people with the comprehensive support they need to put addiction in the past. It is essential to seek treatment as soon as you recognize the signs of substance abuse or addiction.

Do I Need Addiction Treatment?

Recognizing addiction is the first step in getting treatment to overcome it. Some signs you or a loved one need to go to rehab include:

• Developing tolerance for drugs or alcohol (needing to use more to get the desired effects or being able to use high doses without appearing intoxicated)
• Having cravings for drugs or alcohol
• Doing dangerous things when drunk or high, like driving or having unprotected sex
• Regularly using or drinking more than you planned
• Spending a lot of time and energy getting and using addictive substances
• Having legal, social, or financial trouble because of substance use
• Continuing to use drugs or alcohol, even when it causes problems

People who become addicted to drugs or alcohol may not be able to stop on their own. Many people need comprehensive treatment to quit. People may also require ongoing treatment or support to avoid relapse and maintain their recovery.

Find Treatment and Support Now

If you or someone you love struggles with substance abuse or addiction, you are not alone. Find compassionate, holistic treatment and support at Alamo Behavioral Health. Contact our intake team to learn more about our programs or to schedule an intake appointment.

References:

1. National Institute of Health (NIH): Confidentiality protections versus collaborative care in the treatment of substance use disorders
2. U.S. Department of Labor: Family and Medical Leave Act
3. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC): Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act of 1996 (HIPAA)