Substance abuse is a term commonly used to describe both physical and psychological addiction to harmful chemical compounds. Common items of abuse include alcohol, prescription medications and narcotics. While treatment of substance abuse is both complex and challenging, it is achievable. Successful treatment typically centers on a combination approach that includes withdrawal treatment, counseling and behavioral retraining.
Withdrawal Treatment
Detoxification is a common first step in substance abuse treatment. Withdrawal symptoms of addictive substances can be severe, and you should attempt withdrawal only under medical supervision. Your doctor will determine if you can be treated on an outpatient basis or require hospitalization.
Withdrawal approaches vary with the type of drug involved. If you are withdrawing from a central nervous system depressant such as barbiturates or Valium, treatment might involve gradually lowering the amount of the drug in your system. If you are withdrawing from central nervous system stimulants such as dextroamphetamine, treatment typically consists of close monitoring and emotional support. If you are withdrawing from an opioid such as codeine, oxycodone, heroin or morphine, your doctor may use a synthetic substitute to wean you from addiction. A compound called buprenorphine (subutex) might also be used for opioid withdrawal. Be aware that detoxification is essential to your recovery, but it is only a first step. If you take no further actions, you are highly likely to return to substance abuse.
Counseling and Behavior Modification
In order to make substantial progress in substance abuse treatment, you will need to enter some form of counseling or behavior modification program. Outpatient treatment is suitable in many cases and involves visiting an established location for regular group or individual counseling sessions. Counseling might be administered by a psychiatrist, psychologist or trained addiction counselor. Depending on the severity of your condition, you might undergo treatment and counseling in a residential facility. The isolation and focus provided by a 24-hour treatment environment can greatly increase the possibilities for recovery.
Whether you are in an outpatient or residential program, your treatment might include a number elements besides basic counseling. Cognitive therapy is an approach that focuses on replacing addiction-reinforcing behaviors and thinking with appropriate positive alternatives. If your child is in drug treatment, his counselor might ask you to engage in a family-centered form of therapy that is designed to address any home life issues that contribute to addictive behavior.
Support Groups
After you have finished primary treatment, you might benefit from joining an organized self-help group. Common examples of these groups include Alcoholics Anonymous and Narcotics Anonymous. These groups are typically organized along 12-step principles, which emphasize the long-term risk of relapse and the need for continuing support and positive reinforcement. Similar organizations exist for families of addicted and recovering individuals, as well. You can also seek out other aftercare resources that are available in your area.
Addressing Additional Factors
To further your recovery, you might need to address other factors that contributed to your substance abuse, including any existing mental health problems. If you have been diagnosed with mental illness, it is vital you receive treatment for your condition.
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