1. Focused Recovery Away from Triggers
Traveling for treatment offers a significant advantage by allowing individuals to distance themselves from familiar triggers and stressors. Choosing a dedicated recovery environment like SunCloud Health creates a psychological separation from the situations that may have contributed to their struggles. In these specialized settings, patients benefit from the support of professionals and peers who understand their challenges, fostering connection and reducing feelings of isolation.
The structured nature of SunCloud’s programs enables patients to focus entirely on healing without the distractions of familiar—and sometimes toxic—people, places, and things. This focused approach is crucial for breaking old patterns and establishing healthier habits.
2. Access to Specialized Programs: Residential Treatment for Co-Occurring Eating and Substance Use Disorders
Traveling for treatment opens doors to specialized programs that may not be available nearby, such as The Institute for Eating Disorders and Addiction at SunCloud Health. This unique specialty unit is the first residential center focusing exclusively on co-occurring eating disorders with substance use disorders.
Here, individuals struggling with eating disorders and addiction can access truly integrated, evidence-based therapies designed to meet their unique needs. This comprehensive approach addresses the complexities of these issues, ensuring that each patient receives personalized care.
The Institute for Eating Disorders and Addiction’s highly specialized program offers:
- Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT)
- Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)
- Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT)
- Cognitive Processing Therapy (CPT)
- 12-Step recovery programs and facilitation
- Group and family therapy
- Psychotherapy sessions
- Yoga and body image therapy
- EMDR therapy
- Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS Therapy)
- SPRAVATO (esketamine) treatment
3. Self-Care: Stepping Away from Responsibilities
The pressure of work, family obligations, and social expectations can be overwhelming, especially for those dealing with eating disorders and addiction. Traveling for treatment provides a unique opportunity to prioritize self-care by stepping away from everyday responsibilities. When individuals remove themselves from their usual environments, they create a space for wellness that is often difficult to achieve at home.
By choosing to travel for treatment, patients can dedicate themselves fully to their recovery without the distractions of daily life. This intentional break allows for deep reflection, personal growth, and the chance to develop healthier coping mechanisms. As individuals engage in therapeutic practices, they learn the importance of prioritizing their well-being—an essential lesson that extends beyond treatment.
4. The Benefits of Exceptional Leadership
A pivotal aspect of the SunCloud Health experience is the leadership of Dr. Kim Dennis, whose expertise in treating eating disorders and addiction is highly regarded. Her compassionate approach and deep understanding of the psychological and physiological aspects of these conditions create a supportive environment for patients. Dr. Kim’s commitment to evidence-based practices and her ability to connect with individuals on a personal level make her a world-class addiction specialist. Patients often find that her insights and guidance are instrumental in their recovery journeys, providing a level of care that sets SunCloud Health apart from other facilities.
5. Navigating the Urge to Leave Treatment Early
Many individuals experience a strong desire to leave treatment, often within the first few weeks. As feelings surface that can no longer be numbed, emotions like fear and anger can become overwhelming. This is why treatment professionals often recommend traveling for care: it reduces the risk of leaving Against Medical Advice (AMA).
While rehab isn’t mandatory, staff will encourage patients to stay, and being farther from home adds logistical hurdles—such as booking flights—that make leaving easier said than done. This extra barrier can help individuals focus on their recovery rather than giving in to the urge to escape.