Addiction is a debilitating condition that can damage a person’s life in a variety of ways. Only 2.5 million people in the United States got specialist treatment for drug use disorders in 2017, despite the fact that 20.7 million people required it.
As a result, therapy for addiction must be tailored to each patient’s specific needs, taking into account the disease’s symptoms and underlying causes, as well as the long-term repercussions of drug abuse. Their social skills, physical and emotional well-being, and repercussions at work, school, home, or with the police all fall under this umbrella. You can successfully treat addiction with a variety of therapies, often in combination. Read on to find out more.
Detox from Substance Abuse
Giving up the use of prescription medications, illicit drugs, or alcohol – or any other substance use problem – is a significant accomplishment. You have plenty to be proud of, but there is still work to be done. Detox is merely the beginning of a long journey in which you will learn to control urges and prevent relapse.
Counseling is an integral part of many people’s therapy for drug use disorders. You can remain clean with the support of cognitive-behavioral therapy, family counseling, and other forms of treatment. Other mental health disorders that often play a role in drug misuse may also be treated with psychotherapy.
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy
CBT, or cognitive behavioral therapy, teaches you how to identify feelings, ideas, and events that trigger drug cravings. A therapist will instruct you on how to avoid these triggers. You’ll discover how to replace negative ideas and sensations with positive ones that will help you remain clean.
Because the skills you’ll gain will last a lifetime, this is an effective therapeutic strategy. However, CBT is most effective when combined with other therapies, such as family therapy.
Family Therapy
Addiction not only changes your life, but it also changes the lives of your whole family. When you have solid ties with family and friends, you are more likely to succeed in therapy. Your spouse and other family members could be involved in various therapy strategies. Why are you doing this? First and foremost, family members can be a significant catalyst for positive transformation in your life. Following that, including them might increase your likelihood of remaining in treatment. Finally, they will be able to begin to repair the harm your addiction has created in their lives.
According to studies, family therapy reduces relapse rates, increases family satisfaction, and assists children of addicted parents in managing their condition.
Outpatient Therapies
If you’re concerned that you will need to stay at a rehab center to get clean, you don’t have to be. It’s entirely possible to have outpatient therapy and treatments. However, if you choose to go down this route, combining two or more different types of counseling is the best option; it gives you a lot more ammunition to fight your cravings and put your life back together.
Remember that addiction is a long-term condition. It is quite probable that those who have it will relapse. Once you’ve completed detox, you’ll most likely need lifetime therapy, which may involve counseling and potentially medication. This is a positive thing; you are taking control.