Understanding the many DUI programs that are offered is crucial if you or someone you know has been found guilty of driving under the influence. These programs can help people learn more about alcohol and drug abuse, avoid future offenses, and get back on track. The type of program you’ll need to attend will depend on your risk level, which a substance use professional will determine.
Court-ordered
Depending on the nature of your DUI offense, you may be required to complete certain programs or undergo various alcohol education and treatment. Often called DUI schools or classes, these programs can help people learn the risks of substance abuse and may even be able to reduce the length of their driver’s license suspension. Court-ordered programs can also help people resolve their addiction problems and prevent future issues with alcohol.
These programs often target the underlying reasons for a person’s drinking, such as mental health conditions or addiction to drugs or alcohol. These programs often include educational materials, such as lectures or expert presentations on alcohol and drug misuse and treatment. These presentations can be a good way to show people they are not alone and that the issue is serious.
Self-help
A court-ordered treatment program can be part of your punishment if you’ve been charged with DUI. This can include inpatient or outpatient treatment designed to treat underlying substance use conditions and mental health issues contributing to your alcohol misuse. The services you receive will depend on your situation. For example, some people must complete at least 75 hours of substance use treatment and aftercare as a condition of their sentence, like in DUI services in Lexington and other reputable centers.
Often, these programs are supplemented with additional treatment that addresses underlying issues that contributed to your DUI offense and may need to be addressed in the future. This can include therapy or 12-step support groups in your treatment facility and community.
Treatment
First-time DUI offenders can benefit from proactive treatment, such as drug evaluations and risk education classes. These programs provide a safe place to learn about alcohol and drug abuse and help people break unhealthy drinking habits. The severity and frequency of your drinking problem will also affect the level of care you receive. If the problem is severe, you may need a program that lasts several months.
Treatment options include counseling, alcohol education, AA meetings, and random drug and alcohol testing. Depending on the severity of your situation, these services may be covered by health insurance or offered at no cost.
Aftercare
Aftercare DUI services provide clients with the support they need to continue their sobriety after graduating from treatment. This can help them to prevent relapse and impulsive decision-making that could result in a subsequent arrest. Many aftercare DUI programs are available, including alcohol education classes, therapy, and rehabilitation centers.
Depending on your circumstances, you might need to participate in one or more of these programs to ensure you receive the necessary care and maintain your sobriety. For those individuals convicted of a second or third DUI, court-mandated aftercare is often required. This can be an intensive program that lasts for months.
During the program, you’ll learn new coping strategies that will keep you sober and prevent future episodes of alcohol abuse. You’ll also be able to develop a comprehensive aftercare plan that will assist you in responding to triggers and cravings that might lead you back to using. This can include attending 12-step groups, calling a friend or family member, and engaging in healthy activities as an alternative to substance use.
