Sacramento Drug and Alcohol Use Statistics
The California Overdose Surveillance Dashboard shows Sacramento recorded 70 opioid-related overdose deaths in 2018.1 This translates to 4.54 per 100k residents, a 25% increase in Sacramento from 2016. The 2019 trend data include prescription drugs, heroin, synthetic opioid-related overdose fatalities, and opioid-related hospital emergency department (ED) visits.2

All synthetic opioid overdose fatalities may be principally related to fentanyl.

The California Department of Public Health’s Overdose Prevention Initiative

Statistics indicate that providers issued 981,793 prescriptions in Sacramento in 2018.3

The annual crude rate for prescriptions was 637.12 per 1,000 residents, a 20% decrease from 2016.4
Cost of Drug and Alcohol Rehab in Sacramento
Costs for drug and alcohol rehab in Sacramento vary due to the facility and treatment offered.
Inpatient, outpatient, or combination treatment options
Amenities (upscale vs. basic facilities)
Duration of treatment program (30 days vs. 90 days)
Type of insurance accepted
Offers self-pay or payment plans
Offers sliding scale or government funding options
Location
Insurance can reduce the cost of treatment, but the amount and items covered depend on your policy. Inpatient facilities cost the most since they offer room and board. They may also offer upscale amenities such as private therapy, massage or spa treatments, holistic treatment, pool, gym, etc. It’s crucial to ensure your insurance company covers the chosen facility and whether it covers a partial or full amount of treatment. Medi-Cal and Medicaid cover treatment costs in some situations.
If you aren’t insured, there are government-funded, low-cost, or even free options available. Providers base the fee on the amount you can afford. Some facilities offer a sliding scale fee system.
Payment Options for Sacramento Rehabs
You can find affordable rehab facilities in Sacramento that address your needs. If you need to find one outside Sacramento, you can check into one of the 1,500 treatment facilities all over California.
Inquire if a treatment facility offers payment options for your unique needs. Most will work with patients to ensure treatment.
Popular Drug and Alcohol Rehab Centers in Sacramento
Sacramento touts a plethora of drug and alcohol rehab facilities, each offering options to help you with your recovery.5 Below are a few select Sacramento rehab centers.
WellSpace Health – Counseling Center
WellSpace Health is a luxury resort offers a beachfront location, pool, fitness center, and private rooms. They offer services for adult men and women and court referrals. They also offer services for those who have faced past domestic violence, past sexual abuse, past trauma, HIV/AIDS, and individuals with co-occurring substance use and mental disorders.6
CORE Medical Clinic Inc.
CORE Medical Clinic offers programs such as detox treatments, a Buprenorphine program (i.e., Suboxone and Subutex), a Methadone maintenance program (switching from Methadone to Buprenorphine), short-term detoxification (21 days), and long-term detoxification (180 days). Call to speak to a medical professional to determine your needs.
All programs include a physical exam, educational information (i.e., HIV and Hepatitis C), TB testing, urine drug screen test and analysis, and individual and group counseling programs.
Sierra Vista Hospital
Sierra Vista Hospital offers services for: adolescents, adult women, co-occurring mental health and substance use disorders, previous domestic violence, previous sexual abuse, previous trauma, HIV/AIDS, seniors, and veterans and their families. Inpatient adolescent dual-diagnosis is available for patients ages 13-17. This facility also offers telehealth appointments.
What to Expect at a Sacramento Drug Rehab
Before signing up for a rehab center, check what services they offer. Inquire about payment options, including self-pay, private insurance, government-funded healthcare, MediCal, or Medicare. Services vary by facility, but most include a thorough examination including physical and mental health, detox services, group and private therapies, co-occurring diagnosis and treatment, access to support groups, and addiction medication, if applicable.
Detox Services
Detox is a vital part of the recovery process. Prolonged and/or chronic drug and alcohol use may lead to physiological dependence, which means your body and brain rely on the substance to function normally. When you stop using alcohol or drugs, your body can revolt, causing distress and withdrawal symptoms. Withdrawal symptoms differ depending on:
- Type of substance(s)
- History of use
- Amount regularly taken
- Individual physiology
- Physical and mental health
- The method of use (e.g., smoking or injecting)
Withdrawal could be potentially fatal with alcohol, barbiturates, and benzodiazepines. While it is not dangerous, opioid withdrawal can be exceptionally painful. Detox is typically supervised 24/7 by trained professionals.
Withdrawal from methamphetamines, cocaine, marijuana, MDMA, Adderall, and PCP can be mild to moderate but may require professional detox services.
Detox targets your withdrawal symptoms with the intent to achieve a medically and mentally stable, substance-free existence. Interventions may include:
- Detox counseling
- Symptomatic medications
- FDA-approved withdrawal medications
- Support care
- Case management
Detox programs can last from weeks to months, depending on substance use. It also depends on the use of withdrawal or other medications.
Outpatient Treatment in Sacramento
Outpatient programs allow you to receive treatment while going about your everyday life. You can work, go to school, socialize or attend meetings while living at home. Many jobs and schools will work around your treatment schedule if you feel it is necessary to make adjustments.
Sacramento outpatient treatment options include:
Standard outpatient treatment Standard outpatient programs offer the least intensive option, requiring a minimum of weekly therapy sessions.
Intensive outpatient programs (IOPs) IOPs offer multiple hours of therapy, often three to five days each week for the duration of the program.
Partial hospitalization programs (PHPs) PHPs require several hours of treatment each day, up to five to seven days each week. This intensive option can bridge the gap between inpatient and outpatient care.
In addition to outpatient rehab programs, you may want to consider attending a 12-step program related to your substance use. Alcoholics Anonymous (AA) and Narcotics Anonymous (NA) have face-to-face and telephone meetings. Peer groups aren’t considered treatment but often lend much-needed support from people who understand your situation.
Inpatient Rehab in Sacramento
Inpatient Sacramento rehab requires you to live at the treatment facility throughout your program. Treatment can last from 30 to 180 days, dependent on the necessary treatment. Longer treatment programs often have a higher success rate. The first step in inpatient care is completing intake paperwork, including your substance use history, family history of substance use, and physical and mental health. Inpatient residents must give up specific belongings while at the rehab center.
Once the initial evaluation is complete, the staff will develop an individual treatment plan designed for your specific needs. Strategies may evolve due to necessary changes in treatment.
Your individual plan may include:
- Individual therapy
- Group therapy
- Family therapy
- Educational sessions (e.g., relapse prevention classes or drug education classes)
- Peer support meetings
- Medication-assisted treatment or medication maintenance
- Post-treatment and recovery planning
While services vary depending on the facility and your needs, standard services include:
- Detox services (including medical detox)
- Emergency counseling and crisis services
- Co-occurring disorders diagnosis and treatment
- Individual therapy
- Group therapy
- Support groups
- Family programs
- Programs for men, women, and youth
- Intensive outpatient programs
- Outpatient treatment
- Residential treatment programs
- Educational classes
- Alternative or holistic methods
- Transitional care
- Recovery services
Dual Diagnosis Rehab for Co-Occurring Disorders
Individuals with a substance addiction could also have co-occurring mental health disorders, such as antisocial personality disorder, posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD), bipolar disorder, or major depressive disorder. A co-occurring disorder, frequently referred to as a dual diagnosis, requires comprehensive care designed to fully address each disorder.
Addictions and mental health conditions can become complicated and develop codependency. Treatment for one issue can often complicate or increase dependency or symptoms of the other (e.g., receiving mental health services while continuing to drink).
Online Addiction Care (Telehealth)
Telehealth became increasingly popular during the pandemic as people could not visit medical professionals in person. Instead, you can access medical assistance via the internet. It offers services found at many medical and mental health facilities and doesn’t require leaving your home.
Telehealth offers a portal to engage with a medical or mental health provider trained to perform an assessment, intervention, give advice and resources, and patient monitoring.
Access to Telehealth services may depend on your physical or mental health condition, insurance, and location. Before engaging in Telehealth, contact your provider for coverage information.
Medications for Opioid and Alcohol Addiction
While in a Sacramento drug and alcohol rehab, you may receive medications for alcohol or opioid addiction. The Food and Drug Administration approves medications for treating these two types of addictions. These medications include:7, 8
Acamprosate: This medication, coupled with therapy services, reduces cravings in those recovering from alcohol use. It does not lessen withdrawal symptoms.
Naltrexone (Revia/Vivitrol): Prescribed for both alcohol and opioid addiction, it reduces cravings to use substances.
Methadone: This medication is also an opioid designed to reduce withdrawal symptoms without creating a euphoric high. Once acute withdrawal resolves, people may take it for a year as methadone maintenance to reduce the risk of relapse.
Buprenorphine (Buprenex/Butrans): This medication is a partial opioid used during opioid withdrawal and for relapse prevention following withdrawal.
Buprenorphine/Naloxone (Suboxone, Zubsolv): Used after detox for relapse prevention, buprenorphine alleviates cravings, while naloxone deters misuse by causing withdrawal if someone injects the medication.
A provider may prescribe additional mental health medications (e.g., mood stabilizers or antidepressants) related to a co-occurring mental health disorder,
Types of Drug Rehab Programs in Sacramento, CA
Addiction treatment is not a one-size-fits-all approach—everyone has different needs based on their history, intersecting identities, substance use, etc. Sacramento drug and alcohol rehabs acknowledge the need for specialized and culturally-responsive care.
LGBTQ+ Rehab
LGBTQ+ rehabs provide a safe place for patients in the LGBTQ+ community to recover from alcohol and drug addiction. In addition to individualized treatment, trained professionals understand your unique challenges, such as discrimination, transphobia, internalized homophobia, family acceptance issues, and social exclusion.
Faith-Based Rehab
Faith-based rehabs focus on a spiritual approach to your recovery, incorporating prayer, prayer groups, and literature into individual treatment plans. If your religion is vital to your recovery, you may want to find a spiritual rehab facility.
Men-Only Rehab
Adult men-only rehab programs focus on treatment for adult men recovering from addiction. Men-only programs address issues specific to men, including social and cultural biases.
Women-Only Rehab
Adult women-only rehabs aim to treat women by providing a safe place for women to recover. This type of facility is especially beneficial for women who have suffered abuse or trauma from a partner, attack, or loved one.
Teen Rehab
Teens often require different therapies from adults, including family issues, education, and co-occurring mental health disorders. Teen rehab providers understand the unique challenges faced by teens. They offer the teen a private space for recovery while providing group programs to offer support.
Young Adult Rehab
Like teen rehab, young adult rehabs specialize in providing treatment for young adults between 18 and 30 years old. Possible issues faced include drug experimentation, academic stress, thrill-seeking behaviors, family challenges, etc.
Luxury Rehab
Luxury rehabs incorporate a resort-like environment designed to jumpstart your recovery. Many include upscale amenities such as swimming pools, spa treatments, massage therapy, holistic programs, gourmet meals, etc.
Executive Rehab
Executive rehabs provide treatment for working professionals who must work while in treatment. These rehabs often combine upscale amenities in a luxury setting, including office space, high-speed internet, etc.
Drug and Alcohol Laws in Sacramento
California Good Samaritan Overdose Prevention Law
Created to address the rising number of fatal drug overdoses, The Good Samaritan Law of California protects people who witness any type of overdose and call 911 for assistance. The caller, the Good Samaritan, is protected from drug-related arrests or convictions regarding the incident. This law only offers protection to people with small amounts of drugs who do not intend to sell or distribute them.
California Good Samaritan Overdose Prevention Law: Created to address the rising number of fatal drug overdoses, The Good Samaritan Law of California protects people who witness any type of overdose and call 911 for assistance. The caller, the Good Samaritan, is protected from drug-related arrests or convictions regarding the incident. This law only offers protection to people with small amounts of drugs who do not intend to sell or distribute them.
The Good Samaritan Law of California is invaluable in saving countless lives. This law will protect you while helping your friend avoid a fatal incident. If you and/or your friends use illicit drugs (e.g., cocaine, heroin, or fentanyl), and you suspect someone may have overdosed, call 911 immediately. Many people avoid calling emergency services for fear of getting into trouble.
Good Samaritan Law: The California Ethical Treatment for Persons with Substance Use Disorder Act is designed to provide respect and dignity to those receiving addiction treatment services. It details requirements for all California rehab facilities, including individual treatment plans, evidence-based practices, and co-occurring diagnosis care, with services performed by qualified treatment staff.
Senate Bill 110 states contingency management, a drug treatment program presenting tangible incentives and rewards for abstinent behaviors, is covered by Medi-Cal.9
Rehab Option for Non-Violent Crimes: California Proposition 36 permits people who received a conviction for non-violent crimes to choose between being incarcerated or accepting probation combined with rehab treatment and services.6
Employee Protections for Receiving Addiction Treatment: California law requires employers with 25 or more employees to accommodate those who attend addiction treatment voluntarily. Accommodations vary but may include taking sick leave, vacation time, or unpaid days off with job protection. Employees may also be eligible to receive time off via the Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA) or the California Family Rights Act (CFRA).
How to Choose the Right Sacramento Rehab
Choosing the right Sacramento rehab center can make all the difference in the effectiveness of your program and recovery. Each person has unique issues and challenges, so it is important to choose a suitable facility, medical practice, or mental health treatment center. While one person may want an inpatient center, another may thrive with outpatient care. One person may want a combination inpatient and outpatient program, while another may choose a luxury rehab that offers amenities similar to those at a resort. There is no right or wrong program as long as it suits your needs and challenges.
Consider the following factors when you choose a Sacramento drug rehab:
Cost: Cost can be prohibitive, especially if you have limited insurance or none at all. When deciding on a Sacramento alcohol and drug rehab, determine the overall cost and how you can pay for it. Ask about financing options, including government programs, rehab discounts or scholarships, or programs available through SAMHSA. Some rehab centers may offer self-pay or payment plans in addition to private insurance, MediCal, and Medicare
Features and amenities: While some people only want or need basic accommodations during their treatment phase, others require specific features and amenities to make the process easier to bear. Those features and amenities may include spa treatments, massage therapy, holistic treatments, gourmet meals, yoga and other exercise classes, swimming pools, private rooms, etc. Call the rehab for information on amenities and the cost associated with each.
Demographic-specific treatment: Some Sacramento addiction treatment centers design programs to aid specific needs in the community. These facilities can help you face challenges that may not relate to other people. Examples of demographic-specific treatment include young adult rehab, teen rehab, women-only rehab, programs for LGBTQ+ individuals, veterans, and more.
Treatment philosophy: Rehabs are not one size fits all. While some rehabs may provide strict medical care, others may focus on your faith. Some places may focus on age, sexual identity, or holistic care. Some centers offer a combination of treatment plans designed to treat your varied needs. Treatment philosophy is especially important if you have a co-occurring diagnosis.
Treatment setting: Your treatment setting might be as important to you as your treatment type. You may want to stay close to home, experience the city, or relax by the ocean. Since some rehab centers have multiple locations, call to check which options apply to you.
Inpatient or outpatient:Rehab centers may restrict their treatment plans to inpatient or outpatient services while others offer both or a combination of the two programs. Contact your healthcare provider if you don’t know which type of rehab is best for you. You may also choose a center that offers a variety of options to make sure you get the best kind of care.
Insurance: Research what type of insurance your rehab center will accept. If you have private insurance, make sure the program is covered and if there is a copayment required. Find a rehab facility that takes your provider and plan.
Peer support: Many people in recovery from alcohol or substance use find that engaging in peer support goes a long way to help them get well. If you think a peer support group would be beneficial, choose a Sacramento rehab that combines peer support meetings with your treatment plan.
After treatment care: After treatment care is a vital part of your recovery since it is possible to return to your previous inclinations. After treatment care can take many forms, including ongoing physical or mental health exams, support groups, educational classes, medications, etc.
Visitor policy: If your family will visit you during treatment, make sure it is easy for them to get to the rehab facility. Check on the visitor policy to ensure you can have visitors. Rehabs typically do not allow overnight guests.
Resources
- The Sacramento County Opioid Coalition (2022). Sacramento Opioids Data
- California Department of Public Health (CDPH), the California Department of Health Care Access and Information (HCAI), formerly the Office of Statewide Health Planning and Development, the Department of Justice, and the California Health Care Foundation. (2022). California Overdose Surveillance Dashboard
- California Department of Public Health. (2022). Overdose Prevention Initiative.
- County Rankings and Health, Sacramento County. (2022). Sacramento County Data Rankings
- Melemis, S.M. (2015). Relapse Prevention and the Five Rules of Recovery. Yale Journal of Biology and Medicine, 88(3), 325-332.
- Center for Substance Abuse Treatment. (2005). Substance Abuse Treatment for Adults in the Criminal Justice System. Treatment Improvement Protocol (TIP) Series 44. HHS Publication No. (SMA) 13-4056. Rockville, MD: Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration.
- National Institute on Drug Abuse. (2018). Contingency Management Interventions/Motivational Incentives (Alcohol, Stimulants, Opioids, Marijuana, Nicotine).
- National Library of Medicine. (2009). Medicines Used in Alcohol and Opioid Dependence.
- California Legislative Information. (2021). Bill Text.