If you’re a British citizen seeking addiction treatment abroad or a family member whose loved one needs treatment, this guide will help make your decision easier for you.
In it, our team of addiction specialists will guide you through important factors in the decision-making process. We will cover the following rehab abroad related topics:
- Why getting drug addiction treatment abroad is superior to doing so at home
- The current state of treatment in the UK (and why more and more Brits are opting for treatment in other countries)
- How to choose a clinic
- How much drug or alcohol rehab abroad costs
- The most popular destinations for rehab outside of Great Britain
- Answers to some of the most common questions regarding addiction treatment
We know how difficult and confusing choosing rehab abroad can be for addicts and their families. We want you to get the best possible drug treatment at a price you can afford.
Read on to learn everything you need to know about choosing a rehab centre in another country and how to make the process easier.
Key Takeaways
Should You Go Abroad For Rehab?
There are plenty of reasons to go abroad for rehab, including lower costs for private care, immediate attention, better facilities, and a peaceful, relaxing environment to heal in.
If you’re considering going to drug addiction rehab in another country, you’re part of a growing trend among British citizens national: the desire to get superior medical treatment at lower prices and without the long waiting times of the NHS.
It’s not a secret that in the British Isles, the demand for substance addiction treatment is high, especially for alcohol addiction.
According to data from a UK government study entitled Substance Misuse Treatment Statistics 2023 to 2024: Report at UK.gov from November 28th, 2024, “between April 2023 and March 2024, over 310,000 adults were in contact with drug and alcohol treatment services – a 7% increase from the previous year and the highest number since 2009.”
This surge is putting intense pressure on the already strained NHS, leading to longer waiting times and overburdened staff (we’re sure you’ve seen some of the negative media surrounding addiction treatment facilities in the UK already).
Many individuals find themselves waiting weeks, if not months, for treatment, only to receive limited support due to stretched services.
Rehabilitation in destinations like Thailand can offer you several advantages:
- High-Quality Care: Many Asian countries are home to some of the most respected rehab centres in the world, where you’ll find top-level care, personalised treatment plans, and staff who truly take the time to understand what you’re going through.
- Cost-Effectiveness: Even with travel costs, rehab abroad is often more affordable than private options in the UK.
- Healing Environment: Sometimes, stepping away is exactly what helps you overcome a substance use disorder.
If you’re not sure whether going abroad makes sense, talk it through with a medical professional you trust. Our admissions team is always available to answer all of your questions. We’ll get back to you within 24 hours.
We can help you figure out the safest, most effective next step that actually works for you. If you’re still interested in beginning your recovery journey in a tropical paradise rather than crowded UK rehab centres, reach out to our staff today for your free evaluation.
What Are The Benefits of Rehab Abroad?
The benefits of going to rehab abroad for substance abuse treatment include superior treatment outcomes, lower prices, distance from triggers, privacy in a foreign country, and an environment that’s more conducive to healing than the hectic life most people lead in the UK.
Here’s more on the benefits of rehab in another country in greater detail:
Better Care
It’s sad to admit, but the NHS is under immense pressure, maybe more than it ever has been.
Many people find themselves waiting weeks just to be seen, and when they finally are, the support often feels rushed or incomplete, especially for substance abuse treatment. Many rehabs are understaffed and severely underfunded. This is due to the surge in addiction treatment needs, especially in the post-pandemic era.
Scientific research is painting a grim picture of the addiction problem plaguing the UK…
According to the Institute of Alcohol Studies in their study The COVID hangover: addressing long-term health impacts of changes in alcohol consumption during the pandemic from July, 2022, “In 2020, the Royal College of Psychiatrists estimated that “as a result of the pandemic, there may be an additional 3.6 million people now drinking at higher risk levels, warning addiction services could be overwhelmed by post-pandemic demand.”
Rehab clinics abroad, especially smaller, more intimate rehabs, do not have this problem.
Most rehab clinics like ours in Thailand work with fewer patients, which means you get more one-on-one time, more personalised attention, and more comprehensive care.
Privacy Without Judgement
Being away from home for rehab gives you the space to focus fully on your recovery, without the usual distractions or pressure you get at home. You won’t have to worry about work stress, family expectations, or the fear of running into someone who might ask questions you’re not ready to answer.
Distance From Triggers
Rehab abroad gives you the distance you need, both physically and emotionally, to start fresh. Many people describe it as finally coming up for air, and some even find a sense of peace they’ve never known and choose to stay longer than they planned.
High-Quality Care at a Lower Cost
You might be surprised, but going abroad for rehab can actually be more affordable than private treatment in the UK even when you factor in travel costs.
In the UK, a stay in a private clinic can cost anywhere from £15,000 to £30,000, and in many cases, you’ll be sharing that space with dozens or even hundreds of other clients. If you go abroad, you’ll likely pay much less than that for completely personalised care in a much nicer location.
The Best Countries for Rehab Abroad
If you’re open to getting help outside the UK, you’ve got more options than you might think. The key is finding a place where the setting, level of care, and support system fit your budget and needs. We’re going to cover all that in this section.
Here are a few destinations worth considering:
Thailand
Thailand is one of the most popular destinations for rehab abroad.
Some of the biggest advantages of rehab in Thailand include the warm weather, rehab centres that meet international standards, a diverse range of rehab options, and a unique treatment approach that includes elements of Thai culture.
Clinics here aren’t packed with people. Each client gets personalised support and 24/7 medical care. The staff take the time to know you and guide you through recovery in a way that works for you personally.
United States
Rehab in the US is known for its high standards: full-time medical staff, advanced treatment methods, and five-star facilities that look more like wellness resorts than hospitals. If you’re after the latest in therapy or specialist-led programmes, you’ll find them here. But all of that comes at a cost.
A month of treatment in a top US clinic can easily run into the tens of thousands of pounds, and that usually doesn’t include extras like flights or aftercare. This is why Southeast Asia is more popular among Brits for addiction treatment abroad. You get nearly the same level of care for 50%-75% less.
Spain
Spain is one of the most popular destinations for rehab abroad for British citizens national.
It’s close to home, the weather is fantastic (isn’t everywhere compared to the UK?), and getting there only takes a couple of hours. That’s why so many people from the UK choose it for rehab. But before you book a flight, it’s worth asking yourself what you actually need right now.
Some clinics in Spain focus more on comfort than proper treatment, so you might find a nice pool and a quiet room but not enough structure or therapy to really help you change. And with bigger facilities, you could end up feeling lost in the crowd.
Portugal
Portugal can give you the kind of calm and space you might not have felt in a long time. It’s close enough to home that getting there isn’t stressful but far enough to give you the distance you need to clear your head.
The way Portugal approaches addiction is different: there’s no shame or judgement. It’s just warm, caring treatment on a human level.
How Much Does Rehab Cost in Other Countries?
Rehab in other countries is often much cheaper than private rehab facilities in the UK, but it depends on where you look. Countries like Thailand offer world-class treatment at half the price OR LESS than a typical British rehab facility. Other locations, like Spain or Portugal, are more expensive. You’ll usually find prices ranging from €10,000 to €25,000 depending on where you go. While it is possible to find more affordable options in Eastern European countries like Bulgaria or even Turkey, they won’t be as affordable as Southeast Asian options.
Will the NHS Pay for Rehab Abroad?
In most cases, the NHS won’t pay for rehab outside the UK. There are a few rare exceptions, like emergency medical treatment or specific overseas agreements, but these don’t usually apply to long-term addiction care.
That said, you probably won’t need NHS funding to make this work.
Many of the people we speak to are surprised to find that rehab abroad can cost half as much as private clinics in the UK, even with flights included. Instead of overcrowded facilities and long wait times, you’ll have access to smaller programmes, more one-on-one support, and a much calmer environment to heal in.
We know that figuring all this out on your own can feel overwhelming, but you don’t have to. Just give us a call, and we’ll help you understand what’s possible for your situation.
How to Choose the Best Rehab Abroad?
When choosing a rehab abroad, you should be sure to speak with the staff first, but you must also check reviews, watch videos, and research the people in charge of running the clinic.
Choosing a rehab abroad is a big decision, and it’s normal if you’re feeling unsure about where to start. What matters most is finding a place that truly supports you. Here’s what to look for and why it matters:
Find a Treatment Programme That Fits Your Needs
The most important factor in your recovery is finding a rehab clinic that matches your budget, style, and location. A crowded government rehab centre most likely isn’t going to help. You won’t even want to be there. Let alone want to participate in a recovery programme.
You need a programme that helps you understand why things got off track and gives you the tools to move forward at a price you can afford. And it needs to be in an environment conducive to your recovery.
At our clinic, you’ll have access to a full range of therapies, including trauma-focused counselling, relapse prevention, group sessions, and ongoing aftercare.
Listen to the Voices That Have Been There
You have a right to know exactly what kind of support you’re stepping into. That’s why we offer honest, unfiltered video testimonials from people who’ve been through this process themselves. People who once stood where you’re standing now and were unsure of what to expect. Hearing their stories can help you start to imagine what healing might look like in your own life too.
Look at the People Behind the Programme
You’ll want to know who’s running the programme, what experience they bring, and whether they have the qualifications to support your needs.
Start by looking into the clinical team’s credentials. Are there licensed therapists, medical professionals, and addiction specialists on staff? Have they worked with international clients before? Read bios, check for experience with the type of support you’re looking for, and don’t be afraid to ask for details.
A good clinic will be transparent about who’s involved and why they’re qualified. It’s one of the clearest signs that you’re in a place that values safety, trust, and long-term results.
Choose a Setting That Helps You Feel Safe
The environment around you plays a powerful role in how you feel, both mentally and physically. In Thailand, you’ll find yourself surrounded by calm natural beauty, peaceful spaces, and warm weather that naturally encourages you to slow down, exhale, and reset. Being so far removed from the stress and distractions of daily life back home creates the space you need to truly focus on your recovery.
How Can The Cabin Help With Alcohol and Drug Rehab Abroad?
We are one of Asia’s longest-running and most respected rehab centres. Our experienced medical professionals are Western trained, and our programmes include aftercare support, group therapy, art therapy, and treatment for co-occurring disorders.
We also use evidence-based therapies such as CBT to help heal the root causes of your addiction.
We want you to get help, even if it’s not at our clinic. Contact us today for your free evaluation.
Overcoming Your Doubts
Still have questions?
Here are some of the most common concerns we hear, along with honest answers to help you make sense of it all:
What if it’s too far from my home?
That’s a good thing. Being away from familiar routines and stress gives you space to breathe and focus on your recovery. You won’t be left to figure it out on your own. We’ll support you from the moment you arrive.
What if I don’t speak the local language?
You don’t need to. All of our staff speak fluent English, and the entire programme is run in English too, from therapy sessions to meals. We will make sure you’ll feel understood every step of the way.
Will I be in a hospital setting?
No. Our clinic is comfortable, private, and designed to feel nothing like a hospital. You’ll stay in a peaceful, resort-like environment where you can relax, feel safe, and focus on healing.
Can I bring my phone or stay in touch with my family?
Yes, you can, but your access will be limited. We encourage healthy contact with your loved ones, and you’ll have access to your phone during scheduled times so you can stay connected.
What if I’ve already tried rehab and it didn’t work?
That’s more common than you think, and it doesn’t mean you failed. It often means the support you had wasn’t the right fit.
Here, you’ll have time to slow down, step away from distractions, and work with a team that builds a plan around you.
What happens after I leave?
You’ll always be part of the Cabin family, and you’ll be part of our aftercare programme. We’ll work with you to build an aftercare plan that fits your life, whether that’s therapy back home, virtual check-ins, or continued support from our team. You won’t be walking away without a plan.
