Sadly, about 23 million adults in the United States alone have dealt with a substance disorder, and not all of them have received treatment. Substance disorder is a common issue that affects not only the user but also everyone involved in their lives.
It’s nowhere near easy to get help for you or a loved one that is dealing with an addiction. However, it’s not impossible. Keep on reading to learn more about addiction and what kind of help you can get.
What’s Addiction?
Addiction, or substance disorder, is a chronic medical condition that affects the user’s behavior and brain. A person with an addiction will develop the inability to control how much they use the substance and start to depend on it to perform or cope with everyday situations.
A person can become addicted to a substance by experimenting or by using it as a recreational drug in a social setting. However, illegal drugs such as cocaine or heroin are not the only drugs people can become addicted to. People can develop an addiction to prescription meds or opioids as well.
The more people use the substance, the more tolerant their body becomes to it. They’ll eventually have to start increasing the dosage in order to receive the “high” effect they want.
Signs of Addiction
How exactly can you tell when you or a loved one is developing an addiction? Here are several signs to look out for.
For example, someone who is becoming addicted will develop the inability to stop using and become dependant on the substance. They may have tried to give up already but failed, and the moment they stop using, they start experiencing unpleasant withdrawl symptoms.
Also, it’s common to develop an addiction when facing a serious problem. People may find it too hard to cope with, which is why they turn to drugs or any other kind of substance to help them cope or endure their issues. It’s also common to become obsessed with the substance, making them do everything it takes to obtain it, even if it’s risky or illegal.
Someone who develops a substance dependence might end up giving up activities or hobbies that brought them joy and might even cause them to isolate themselves. For example, they might begin to turn down invitations to gatherings or parties that they’d normally attend.
They’ll also begin to act secretive and struggle to maintain themselves financially, as they begin to sacrifice their basic needs to gain the substance they’re addicted to. Plus, they’ll also start changing their appearance by not looking after their hygiene.
How to Help Someone With an Addiction
The first thing you want to prove to your loved one is that they can trust you. You don’t want to seem demanding or judgemental, as this will most likely push them away. Instead, show them how much their addiction is affecting you.
Avoid threatening them or criticizing them, as you want them to feel comfortable enough to confide in you, so be patient. Also, remember to keep your expectations low. An addict won’t overcome their problem overnight, and it might take them some time to admit they have a problem.
Be prepared for any defensive behavior they might display. It might be tough to handle, but being aware of this will help you deal with the problem better. If they start blaming or criticizing you, listen as calmly as possible and don’t take any of it personally.
Types of Therapies Available
Luckily, there are several kinds of treatments and therapies available for those struggling with an addiction. Here are a few examples.
Inpatient and Outpatient Treatment Programs
An inpatient treatment program involves removing the person struggling with the addiction from their normal setting and relocating them temporarily in a treatment facility where they’re taken care of 24/7, such as Hope Rising Recovery does. On the other hand, outpatient care gives the person the chance to maintain their routine and responsibilities. However, this type of treatment may be best in mild cases.
Rehab Therapy
With rehab therapy, withdrawl management and a thorough detox are taken place. Not only does it focus on getting the user to get clean from the substance, but it also helps them to treat the root of their addiction. Through extensive therapy and counseling, the patient will be able to address their issues and resume their life effectively without having any relapses.
Individual Therapy
Individual therapy consists of having patients analyze themselves and identify when and why they started using the substance in the first place. They receive help on how to manage their time, how to identify potential triggers and dangerous situations. It helps the patient mold their thinking patterns to lead a healthier and sober lifestyle.
Group Therapy
Group therapy gives the user the chance to heal from their addiction with group sessions. This type of therapy helps the patient feel integrated into a setting where they’ll find people just like them, facing the same problem. It allows the user not to feel alone or out of place and get a sense of support from others who are also in a recovery process.
Rehab—A Good Choice For You and Everyone in Your Life
The user that is struggling with a substance disorder and everyone else involved will definitely benefit from going to rehab. Getting treatment at a facility will help the patient heal and overcome their issue, along with a great support system. Consider getting help as soon as possible to get on the road to recovery.
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