Substance Abuse Treatment: What You Need to Know

If you are seeking substance abuse treatment help, this blog might be for you. Substance abuse is a serious problem that affects millions of people worldwide. It can occur with any substance that alters a person’s mood or behavior, including alcohol, illegal drugs, and prescription medication. Substance abuse treatment is necessary to help individuals overcome this problem and regain control. In this blog post, we will discuss what substance abuse treatment entails, where substance abuse comes from, signs of it, impacts on self and others, and what can be done to help.

What is Substance Abuse Treatment?

Substance abuse treatment is a process of helping individuals overcome their addiction to drugs or alcohol. It involves a variety of interventions and approaches that are designed to address the physical, psychological, and social aspects of addiction. Treatment may include counseling, medication, behavioral therapies, and other supportive services that help individuals overcome their addiction and stay sober.

Where Does Substance Abuse Come From?

Substance abuse can arise from a variety of factors, including genetics, environmental factors, and personal experiences. For some individuals, substance abuse may be a way of coping with stress, trauma, or mental health conditions such as anxiety and depression. For others, it may be a result of peer pressure, curiosity, or experimentation.

Signs of Substance Abuse

The signs of substance abuse can vary depending on the substance used and the individual’s level of addiction. Some common signs include:

•     Changes in behavior, mood, or personality
•     Neglecting responsibilities at home, work, or school
•     Strained relationships with friends and family
•     Physical symptoms such as headaches, nausea, or tremors
•     Financial difficulties due to spending on drugs or alcohol
•     Legal problems such as arrests or DUIs

Impacts of Substance Abuse on Self and Others

Substance abuse can have devastating effects on both the individual and those around them. In addition to the physical and psychological toll of addiction, substance abuse can lead to financial problems, legal issues, and strained relationships with loved ones. It can also lead to job loss, homelessness, and social isolation. Substance abuse can also increase the risk of accidents, injuries, and overdose.

Substance Abuse is a Growing Issue

According to the National Survey on Drug Use and Health:

•     Approximately 19.7 million Americans aged 12 and older had a substance use disorder in 2017. 
•     The opioid epidemic has also contributed to the growing need for substance abuse treatment, with overdose deaths involving opioids increasing by 42% from 2016 to 2019. 
•     In 2017, alcohol use disorder affected almost 74% of adults with a substance use disorder, while illicit drug use disorder impacted about 38% of adults. 
•     1 out of every 8 adults struggled with both alcohol and drug use disorders simultaneously that year. 
•     In 2017, 8.5 million American adults experienced co-occurring disorders, meaning they had both a mental health disorder and a substance use disorder. 
•     It’s important to note that drug abuse and addiction come with a high cost, as they account for over $740 billion in lost workplace productivity, healthcare expenses, and crime-related costs annually in the US.

The stigma associated with addiction can also prevent individuals from seeking help, leading to increased rates of substance abuse and addiction.

Substance Abuse Treatment Help

Substance abuse treatment is essential to help individuals overcome and regain control of their lives. There are several ways that individuals can seek help, including:

•     Seeking support from loved ones or support groups such as Alcoholics Anonymous or Narcotics Anonymous
•     Seeking treatment from a healthcare provider or substance abuse treatment center
•     Participating in counseling or behavioral therapies
•     Taking medication to manage withdrawal symptoms or cravings
•     Participating in rehabilitation programs such as inpatient or outpatient treatment

In addition to these options, it is also important to address the stigma associated with addiction and promote a more compassionate and supportive approach to those struggling with addiction. This can involve education, advocacy, and destigmatization efforts aimed at reducing the shame and guilt that often prevent individuals from seeking help.

Addiction is a Complicated Disease

It’s important to understand that addiction is a chronic and complex disease that requires ongoing care and management. It’s not just a matter of willpower or choice. Addiction can cause changes in the brain that affect decision-making, behavior, and impulse control, making it difficult to quit on one’s own. This is why professional help and support are essential in the recovery process.

Addiction Programs

There are several types of substance abuse treatment programs available, including outpatient, inpatient, and residential programs. Outpatient programs provide flexible and individualized care, allowing individuals to continue with their daily activities while receiving treatment. Inpatient programs offer intensive care and 24/7 supervision, which can be particularly helpful for those with severe addiction or co-occurring disorders. Residential programs provide a structured and supportive environment for individuals to focus on their recovery.

Addiction Therapy

Behavioral therapies, such as cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) and dialectical behavior therapy (DBT) are effective approahttps://copepsychology.com/cognitive-behavioral-therapy/ches to treating addiction. These therapies can help individuals identify and change negative thought patterns and behaviors that contribute to their addiction, develop coping skills, and build healthy relationships. Medication-assisted treatment (MAT) can also be helpful in managing withdrawal symptoms and reducing the risk of relapse.

Family Role

Family involvement can also play a significant role in the recovery process. Family therapy can help repair relationships that may have been damaged by addiction and provide support and encouragement for the individual in treatment. Support groups like Alcoholics Anonymous (AA) and Narcotics Anonymous (NA), can also provide a sense of community and connection for individuals in recovery.

It’s essential to recognize that recovery is a journey and relapse is a common part of the process. However, relapse does not mean that treatment has failed. It’s important to continue with treatment and seek support from loved ones and healthcare providers if a relapse occurs.

COPE Psychological Center Can Help

At COPE Psychological Center, we understand the importance of substance abuse treatment and provide comprehensive and individualized care to help individuals overcome their addiction. Our team of experienced professionals offers a range of services, including counseling, behavioral therapies, medication management, and support groups. We work with our clients to develop personalized treatment plans that address their unique needs and circumstances. Our goal is to help individuals regain control of their lives and achieve lasting sobriety. 

If you or a loved one is struggling with substance abuse, don’t hesitate to reach out for help. With the right treatment and support, recovery is possible. Contact us at COPE Psychological Center to learn more about our substance abuse treatment services and how we can help you or your loved one overcome addiction and achieve lasting sobriety.