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What happens in substance abuse treatment?
Long-term drug and alcohol use can alter brain chemistry, making it extremely difficult to combat the urge to continue using. A series of steps in the substance abuse treatment process have been determined to improve the chances of success. Many recognize a problem and try to stop on their own; however, the majority of these cases don’t enjoy success. Leaving it to the professionals who face these challenges with their patients every day can increase the probability of maintaining the sobriety for which they worked so hard. Treatment steps are different for every program but ultimately include the following:
- Detoxification
- This phase is the process of removing the chemicals from the body. Users often experience intense mental and physical withdrawal.
- Detox centers are typically inpatient so constant monitoring of symptoms is available. Detox can be fatal for some substances if not done properly, and prescription medications make handling the symptoms more comfortable.
- Recovery
- The urge to use doesn’t go away when the chemical leaves the body. It has changed the way the brain works, making it want more of the drug to function rationally.
- Can be inpatient or outpatient
- Typically involves group and individual therapy to teach someone how to deal with the urges and cope with stressful situations.
- Sober Living and Halfway Houses
- Perfect for those who crave a level of support that can only be found when surrounded by their peers consistently.
- Generally ranges from 90 days to an indefinite length of time.
- Can be private or public and offer varying degrees of support
What kind of recovery therapy can be used in substance abuse treatments?
While it’s different for everyone depending on their specific situation, one or more of the following therapies have been found useful.
- CBT (cognitive behavioral therapy)
- Helps individuals control negative thought patterns and destructive behavior that caused the decision to use in the first place.
- Also helps them identify triggers that may cause them to use again and to respond to them in a healthy manner
- MET (motivational enhancement therapy)
- Therapist helps individuals dig deep in their psyche to find motivation and reasons that prevent them from using when the urge seems overwhelming, like taking care of their children safely.
- Family therapy
- Teaching family members, who are usually the support system, to understand how recovery works so that they can encourage and support instead of judge.
- Can also help solve family issues that may had led to their initial decision to use.
- 12-step programs, like that typically found in AA, NA, and Cocaine Anonymous)
- Complements the coping mechanisms learned in professional treatment programs.
- Doesn’t usually supply the user with the adequate methods to achieve successful sobriety and is best used in conjunction with other therapies.
How comprehensive is substance abuse treatment?
Not only is a substance abuse treatment program aimed at helping those who are dedicated to recovery detox, but effective treatments incorporate a variety of services that help their patients recognize what happiness life can offer, such as:
- Medical services, such as mental health and HIV/AIDS
- Financial services
- Family services
- Job placement services
- Educational services, like life skills training
- Legal services for those in trouble with the law
- Housing and transportation services
- Childcare services
Why should I consider a substance abuse treatment program?
No matter who has slid down the slippery slope of becoming addicted to a mind-altering substance, there is help. The goal of a substance abuse treatment plan is not only to help addicts safely rid their bodies of the chemical, but to give them support through every level of recovery. Three factors are noticed in those who do succeed:
- They are highly motivated to be in treatment
- They are actively participating in the activities surrounding their recovery, such as counseling
- They receive intense treatment.
- They have access to support systems and groups.
Not only is drug or alcohol abuse damaging to the addict’s mental state, physical well-being, and relationships, but it has been attributed to the majority of crimes, from theft to domestic violence. Economically, drug and alcohol addiction has been estimated to cost the country more than $246 billion that involves everything from legal issues to the impact on the healthcare system. Starting with an inpatient facility is recommended to treat almost all addictions to provide users with the medical responsiveness and support necessary to maintain the motivation needed to overcome the withdrawal symptoms and intense urges to use again. Transitioning to an outpatient facility when they require less support can be done as they progress in their journey. Substance abuse treatment centers offer better odds of success and sustained sobriety for anyone knowing that they need to work on regaining control of their life.
List of All Substance Abuse Treatment Centers in the U.S:
Call (888) 644-6099 to get 24/7 help with treatment.
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