Treatments for Drug and Substance Addiction

People suffering from drug and substance addiction go through a hard time trying to recover. The treatment process is lengthy, and at times people relapse, even after an attempt to stop abusing.  There are several treatment options, depending on different factors like the length of use, the type of addictive disorder, and its effects on an individual. The different treatment plans which can be used to help individuals overcome addiction may include the following steps.

Detoxification

Usually, this is the first step in treatment.  When an addict stops abusing instantly, they may undergo some life-threatening consequences. Detoxification involves removing those substances from the body while at the same time reducing the effects of withdrawal.  Note that detoxification is usually accompanied by other treatment plans to help an addict fully recover. However, not all addicts undergo the same detoxification treatment plan. It depends on the severity of the addiction. Most people who are addicted to several substances are often given medication to help reduce each withdrawal symptom. There are several detoxification centers, including Ascendant New York, where one can be assisted in their recovery journey. 

Rehabilitation Programs

Rehabilitation programs have proven to be effective for most addicts.  These programs help an addict remain drug-free and prepare them to resume a normal life.  Most of these facilities operate for 24hrs providing an environment that will help and addict recover. Most rehab facilities offer family counseling to help family members share their concerns about their loved ones’ addiction.  They also have aftercare planning that helps an addict resume normal life in society and stay sober.

Counseling and Behavioral Therapies

After detoxification, addicts have to undergo intensive counseling to help them change their attitude about substance abuse.  These therapy sessions vary depending on the needs of an individual. In most cases, as the individual shows signs of improvement, the number of sessions will reduce.  There are different types of therapies, including:

• Cognitive-behavioral therapy aims to help individuals learn how to identify and change thought patterns associated with drug and substance abuse.
• Multi-dimensional family therapy aims at improving family functionality around a teen or youth with drug or substance abuse.
• Motivational interviewing aims at pushing individuals to make changes and life adjustments willingly.
• Motivational incentives use positive reinforcement to encourage abstinence.

Counseling and behavioral therapy aim to help the individual change their attitude and behavior regarding substance abuse. It also equips them with skills to be able to resume life in society.

Self-help Groups

Self-help groups allow recovering individuals to meet other people suffering from substance addiction. These programs aim to motivate individuals to not feel alone in their recovery journey. You will find them in the community, where members can share personal experiences and coping mechanisms for what they are going through. There are many benefits of self-help groups, including helping them integrate back into society after a rehab program.

Medications

Recovering addicts use medication to manage withdrawal symptoms during detoxification.  Other individuals can also use medication for longer to reduce substance craving, hence preventing a relapse. Medication alone cannot be used as a treatment technique to help recovering addicts. It needs to be followed with other forms like rehabilitation programs and counseling.

Sober Living Homes

These are residency homes for people recovering from addiction. They encourage residents to stay sober and adhere to certain rules which help them with their recovery journey.  These homes are different from rehab centers because residents have more freedom with a less intensive recovery process.

Many recovery centers have a 12-steps recovery program that is common for alcoholics, but it can also be used for other addictions. A recovery process is not easy, hence the need for support from both friends and family to resume a functional life in society.