Wondering how addiction treatment works for those who are addicted to drugs? Drug addiction is a chronic disease. As with other types of chronic diseases, treatment is necessary to get better.
Understanding what to expect when one chooses the addiction recovery route is important. There are many different types of treatment options for those who are addicted, making it necessary for them to understand which treatment option will help them break free of their addiction. Examples of the strategies addiction treatment uses to treat those who abuse drugs include withdrawal management, support groups, counseling, inpatient treatment, outpatient treatment, and medication-assisted treatment.
According to the National Council for Behavioral Health, addiction treatment is one of the most effective forms of therapy for substance use disorders but is widely misunderstood. It is so important for those who are in need of drug treatment to understand how addiction recovery works. The information below expands on the topic of medication-assisted treatment and more, as well as how it works for those who are addicted to illicit drugs.
An FDA-approved medication can be prescribed for those who are abusing illicit drugs to help them get clean. Prescription medications are often necessary, as they help reduce cravings the abuser has, prevent the patient from overdosing, and can even block the effects of certain drugs. Taking approved medications can give drug abusers a better chance of long-term recovery, which is the goal, or at least should be a goal, for everyone who is struggling with drugs.
Three common types of approved medications used in addiction treatment are methadone, buprenorphine, and naltrexone. Each type of medication performs differently for different addictions, and each comes with its own advantages and disadvantages. Since every individual's needs will be different, it is essential that they are properly evaluated to ensure they receive the right type of medication. Once they start their medication, they will be supervised and managed by medical professionals in order to ensure that the medication is working as it is supposed to.
Undergoing counseling services allows those who are addicted to drugs to learn more about their addiction. While medications will help drug abusers break free of their addiction, counseling is an essential part of the recovery process. Addiction counselors work very closely with addicts to help them understand more about their behavior. Behavioral changes only come about when addicts have a good understanding of how their behavior influences their drug use.
Addiction counselors create personalized treatment programs for those who are addicted, which need to be carefully followed in order for the addict to experience a successful recovery. Addiction treatment plans identify and list specific problems that need to be addressed, goals, objectives, and intervention information. It will also include any necessary medications that need to be taken to help the abuser overcome their addiction to drugs.
Think you or a loved one can benefit from addiction treatment? Here are answers to some commonly asked questions:
A person is addicted to a substance or behavior when they are unable to moderate or stop it. Addiction involves compulsive engagement in using substances like alcohol or behavior like gambling. The compulsive behavior is caused by the stimulation rewards being brought to the brain. Over time, the person craves the simulation in their brain to feel pleasure. People with addiction are typically obsessively preoccupied with getting, using, and recovering from their addictive behavior.
The terms addiction and dependence are often used interchangeably, but they have specific meanings. Addiction refers to compulsive behaviors that might involve using substances like opiates, tobacco, or alcohol. Dependence refers to the physical need to use an addictive substance. For example, a person who stops smoking cigarettes will experience physical symptoms like cold sweats, irritability, and insomnia.
There are many reasons why some people become addicted, and anyone can become an addict. The two main factors that make a person vulnerable to addiction are genetic and environmental factors. Environmental factors include addictive behavior in the home, abuse, trauma, social acceptance of addictive behavior, and peer pressure. Genetic factors include a history of addiction or mental illness in the family.
Other common issues that make a person more vulnerable to addiction include underlying mental health disorders like depression and anxiety. A history of abuse and trauma is another major factor for addiction. Also, children who engage in problematic behavior are more likely to develop addictions.
In need of addiction treatment? Whether it is you or someone you care about who is addicted to drugs, treatment is necessary to address this chronic disease. The above content provides information on what someone can expect when choosing treatment for their addiction. For those who want more detailed information, making an appointment with a treatment facility is the next step.
Request an appointment here: https://nycpsychiatricassociates.com or call NYC Psychiatric Associates at (917) 391-0076 for an appointment in our New York office.
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