What Kind Of Program Is Best For Me?

Substance abuse is a term that refers to an individual’s continued and excessive use of alcohol, narcotics, or other drugs. Substance abuse is an ongoing battle for many people, as it can lead to addiction and withdrawal. There are three types of substances that people might abuse: controlled substances, street drugs, and chemical castrations. It is important that substance abuse be handled as soon as possible, so an individual can be placed in a treatment program.

It is illegal to use or possess most kinds of substances without a prescription; however, there are some exceptions for marijuana in certain states. Some drugs are legal to own but not legal to use without a prescription; these include most forms of antibiotics and stimulants.

Addiction and alcoholism

An addiction is a physical dependence on drugs, alcohol, and/or other substances. It is characterized by heavy use of the substance, difficulty discontinuing its use, development of tolerance to its effects, and withdrawal symptoms when use is discontinued.
Alcoholism is a physical and/or mental dependence on alcohol. It is characterized by excessive drinking of alcohol, development of tolerance to its effects, physical symptoms of withdrawal, and compulsive behavior. Alcoholism can lead to addiction; however, alcoholism may exist without the presence of addiction. It is a chronic disease, but it can start as an acute condition; people who can stop drinking can recover from alcoholism without treatment.

Treatment of addiction/alcoholism

The most effective treatment for addiction is prevention; however, if prevention has failed and the individual is already addicted, there are a variety of treatment options available. The severity of the addiction will affect the level of treatment needed; the more severe the addiction, the longer and more intensive the treatment program. These are some of the options available:

Inpatient or residential treatment

Individuals may be treated in an addiction treatment centre or a hospital. Removing the individual from his/her environment and social circle will help to prevent relapse.

Outpatient treatment

In this program, an individual is given a prescription for drugs, paid for by the county health department, which allows the individual to purchase drugs at a pharmacy. The individual also meets with a counsellor every week at no cost;

Partial hospitalization or day treatment

This program combines some of the features of inpatient treatment and outpatient treatment. Individuals are still required to attend meetings during the day, but they may be able to return home in the evening. This is useful for those who need more intensive care than outpatient programs can provide.

Recovery from Drug and Abuse

Many factors influence the length of time and the intensity of treatment required to recover. Many people can discontinue use with a few outpatient sessions; others need more intensive treatment. There are some of the things an individual may have to do to recover, That is: Staying sober and other essential aspects of treatment, like, working with a therapist to develop realistic goals for social life and work; learning how to manage emotions; taking medication when indicated; and living in a safe environment.

Studies have shown that treatment increases the chance of full recovery and that individuals in treatment are more unlikely to return to the drug than those who do not seek help. Early and intensive treatment also helps decrease relapse.

During the initial phase of recovery, individuals often feel restless and anxious as they try to learn how to live without drugs. This discomfort can be relieved by talk therapy, which teaches an individual how to deal with issues such as anxiety, depression, anger, or low self-esteem. Call us at 833-680-0165.