Everyone dreams of something. Some people dream of being famous, some dream of doing something so great that they are remembered for decades after they have passed, some people dream of simply getting through drug treatment. It is good to dream about and pursue your own success journey, though not everyone has the same privileges along the way.
For people who are in and out of drug addiction treatment, it may seem like a success story is not part of their narrative. However, a true success story is not measured by the obstacles encountered along the way but by the end result.
People who struggle with substance abuse and mental health issues seem to face a more difficult life experience than the average person. Rehab facilities and treatment programs might be re-occurring locations in their story. Substance abuse treatment is not something to be ashamed of, though; it should be worn as a badge of honor when you’re done. Obstacles resulting from drug and alcohol addiction don’t have to ruin a person’s ending of their story, but it takes willpower and a little help along the way.
How to take Control of Your Narrative
The first step forward with rehabilitation for drug addicts is to learn more about treatment options. Many methods have been shown to help treat substance use disorder, and often drug rehab centers and healthcare facilities recommend a blended approach.
The type of treatment or treatments chosen will depend on the individual. Most healthcare professionals will recommend behavioral therapy, which will focus on the thoughts, feelings, and actions associated with alcohol use. A blended therapies approach is often recommended for people who struggle with mental illness in addition to AUD. In some cases, it may also be appropriate to use medication-assisted therapy (MAT) to help deter people from consuming drugs in the future.
Alcohol Addiction Treatment
Alcohol use disorder (AUD) is classified as a disorder where the person is unable to control how much alcohol they consume and the inability to find healthy emotional coping mechanisms when not drinking. It is common for people who don’t have AUD to wonder why a person can’t overcome their drinking. However, AUD is a brain disorder. It cannot be treated simply by “getting over it” or “putting down the bottle,” and many like to say.
AUD and the consistent consumption of alcohol alters the chemistry of the brain. This results in making it extremely difficult for a person to change their habits or simply stop drinking. Not only that, detoxing from alcohol can be extremely dangerous. The detox process should always be conducted in a treatment facility under a medical professional’s supervision for safety; withdrawal symptoms of alcohol detox could be fatal.
Ultimately, many alcoholics find that faith-based support groups, such as Alcoholics Anonymous (AA) and 12-step programs, offer adequate go-forward support.
Drug Treatment
Drug use and addiction can co-occur with AUD. Though some of the treatment options are the same or similar, there are some differences to consider.
Drug therapy addiction treatment is designed to help addicted people identify what leads them to use drugs and teach them how to cope without harmful substances. For many, treatment is a long-term process that may include multiple relapses or interventions. However, a healthcare professional should regularly evaluate anyone battling drug addiction to assess both their physical and mental health.
Treatment centers and rehab programs with evidence-based behavioral therapies provide methods to cope with drug cravings, teach relapse prevention, and help people who have relapsed adjust their approach to sobriety. Since addiction is considered a chronic disease, relapse is considered a normal part, and according to the National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA), “Drug relapse is comparable to other diseases such as asthma or hypertension”
You have options
Group counseling may offer psychological strengthening and enforce behavioral contingencies that facilitate abstinence and a lifestyle without drugs. Some groups even encourage the participation of family members to improve family dynamics, communication, and parenting skills.
Some of the more advanced therapies are now being modified for community environments to increase productivity and efficiency, such as contingency management and cognitive-behavioral therapy. Each approach works on different aspects of addiction. The healthcare professional will determine the best course from that point on.
Finally, with the right choices, as challenging as they might be, and the right drug and alcohol rehab… you will be on your way to a brighter future and a good life for yourself as well as for the people who love you.
If you ever find yourself ready to get help and doing a google search for “drug rehab near me,” then give Pacific Sands Recovery Center a call, talk to one of our care coordinators for free and take the first step towards an unmatched level of care and personalization.
