Does Cigna Insurance Cover Drug Rehab?
Since the passage of the ACA (“Obamacare”), drug addiction is treated as any other medical condition. That means that it is more than likely you are partially or possibly fully covered for rehab, depending on your specific policy.
Obviously the need for quality drug rehab programs could not be greater. A person trapped by an addictive substance will be unable to make rational decisions, and they will go to extreme lengths to obtain more of the drug. Should you attempt to reduce or discontinue the substance, you may become the victim of withdrawal symptoms such as:
- Hallucinations
- Cold sweats
- Cravings
- Nausea
- Headaches
How Addictive Substances Affect the Brain
Addictive substances operate by tampering with the “reward system” of the brain. This reward system is stimulated by a hormone known as dopamine. Addictive substances can cause receptors in the brain to accept them in place of naturally produced hormones. They can also trick the brain into releasing abnormal amounts of dopamine.
The brain will attempt to adapt to this over-stimulation by reducing the amount of dopamine it releases, as well as the number of dopamine receptors. This adaptation, however, will only increase the individual’s dependence upon the drug. To achieve the same sense of euphoria, the addicted person will be forced to take increased amounts of the drug. Substance abuse programs can help set a person free from this vicious cycle by providing the tools needed to break the addiction.