- Adderall
- Alcohol
- Barbiturates
- Chronic Relapse
- Cocaine
- Codependency
- Compulsive Hoarding
- Crack Cocaine
- Crystal Meth
- Dual Diagnosis
- Eating Disorder
- Ecstasy
- Gamma Hydroxybutyrate (GHB)
- Gender Specific Issues
- Heroin
- Hydrocodone
- Inhalants
- Ketamine (Special K)
- Lysergic Acid Diethylamide (LSD)
- Marijuana
- Methadone
- Methamphetamine
- OxyContin
- Phencyclidine (PCP)
- Prescription Drug Abuse
- Process Addiction
- Ritalin and Concerta
- Sex and Love Addiction
- Steroids
- Suboxone
- Synthetic Cannabis
- Trauma
- Valium
- Video Game Addiction
- Xanax
Addiction Types
Addiction Treatment
When use of a substance or participation in a process reaches the point where the individual 1) has a craving for the object or process, 2) has lost control over its use, and 3) continues to use the substance or participate in the activity despite any negative consequences, it is time to seek help. In order for an addiction treatment program to be successful, several things must be understood.
The problem of addiction
Understanding why someone would become addicted to anything is important. At the heart of any substance or behavioral addiction is the reality that the object of addiction provides a psychological, social, or biological reward; it may offer two or all three. Effective treatment programs work with the patient to identify the reward, and then structure a program to mitigate the effects, or replace the object with something less destructive. Alternative systems that engage, challenge, and satisfy the addict need to be developed and implemented, not only for recovery to begin, but in order for it to “take” and avoid a relapse.
Stages associated with treatment
A number of different processes have been identified as common to all who enter into addiction treatment. These include:
Pre-treatment – the period before seeking treatment, during which the dependence problem is denied. At this stage, developing a desire to change is impeded.
Realizing a problem exists – At this point, the fact that a problem exists is identified. However, the individual may be indecisive about seeking treatment.
Accepting that a change needs to take place– The need to change is accepted and methods to bring about change are sought. This process may range from attempts to reduce the quantity or frequency of use to gathering information about rehabilitation facilities.
Actively seeking change– this step involves taking direct action towards recovery. Participating in peer counseling groups (12-step programs), working with a private therapist, or entering into a treatment facility are among the different options available.
Maintaining the new behavior – a real problem is the desire to return to the old behaviors, especially if treatment becomes difficult. A successful treatment program anticipates this stage and prepares a number of strategies that can be implemented to ensure that recovery keeps moving forward.
Relapsing – This is a return to the old behavior, which may or may not occur, but it is not uncommon. What is important is realizing that this is a possibility, and not to become discouraged and give up. Relapse is a sign that the patient’s needs must be reassessed and the treatment program adjusted to better address those needs.
Today, the most effective programs employ motivational interviews early in treatment. This directs the patient to examine his or her addiction and to look at gaps between desires and goals, and the role the object of addiction plays in this. During this process, the patient is steered towards accepting responsibility for all of the choices made and the actions taken.
One problem with any addiction treatment program is the developing of a new addiction that replaces the old one, for example, increasing food consumption to compensate for quitting smoking or drinking. A good program will be aware of this possibility, and be prepared to prevent such an occurrence.
If you believe that addiction treatment may be necessary for you, a friend, colleague, or loved one is necessary, it is important that the process begin immediately. At The Way Out Recovery, we are prepared to help you find a program that meets your needs and start you on the path to recovery and regaining control of your life.