6 Treatments for Addiction That are Proven Successful

Addictive substances affect the structure and function of the brain, resulting in changes that last long after the drug has been stopped. This might explain why drug addicts are susceptible to relapse even after extended periods of sobriety. There is no such thing as a one-size-fits-all approach to addiction treatment in Richmond VA. Treatments may differ depending on your requirements. Based on the substances you’re misusing, your unique mental health needs, or the health care alternatives you can afford, you may pick the therapy that’s best for you. Like most other chronic disorders, relapse rates for addiction can be as high as 60%. Relapse in no way indicates that therapy has failed, but is there a treatment method that has been demonstrated to be the most effective? There are various therapy options available to effectively treat addiction, and we’ve outlined six of the most successful ones in this article.

Assisted Detoxification

Detoxification with medical assistance is usually the initial step in therapy. This entails removing a drug from the body while minimizing withdrawal symptoms. Detox is a healthy way to get rid of addictive chemicals from your body. This is advantageous since drug withdrawal can occasionally result in unpleasant or even life-threatening bodily effects. Detox is usually used in conjunction with other therapies since it does not address the underlying behavioral reasons of addiction.

Cognitive Behavior Therapy

Although there are several types of psychotherapy, cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) is a widely used and scientifically supported practice. It emphasizes addicts’ cognitive patterns, behavioral effects, and the development of more healthy coping strategies. CBT is one of the most effective treatment techniques, according to research, since its benefits last for a long time. Some types of CBT, however, are more beneficial than others. It can be used to treat a variety of addictions, including food, alcohol, and prescription pharmaceuticals, among others. CBT also assists the patient in learning how to identify triggers while developing abilities simultaneously.

Medication-Based Therapy

When rehabilitating from a substance-related addiction and its repercussions, a person may need to take medicine regularly. Lengthier usage of pharmaceuticals helps to lessen cravings and avoid relapse or resumption of drug use after recovering from abuse. On the other hand, people typically utilize pharmaceuticals to control withdrawal effects during detoxification. The medicine prescribed will be different based on the drug to which the person is addicted. Medication is not a stand-alone treatment for addiction; it should be used in conjunction with other techniques of management, such as behavioral therapy. This method also comes in handy when an individual is suffering from LSD addiction.

12-Step program

Alcohol and drug abuse can be treated through 12-step programs. It’s a type of group treatment that acknowledges that addiction has a variety of negative repercussions, including social, spiritual, and physical ones. Acceptance is the first step in this style of therapy, followed by surrender to a higher power, and finally participation in regular group sessions. There are essentially 12 steps that each group member must complete at their own leisure. Spending time with others who understand what you’re going through might be quite beneficial. Few of these programs hold group meetings to address issues and provide mutual support.

Contingency management

Various addictions, such as opioids and alcohol can be treated through contingency management. CM treatment encourages the patient’s beneficial actions by providing concrete incentives, such as sobriety maintenance. Motivational interviewing sessions can increase a person’s desire to change and make behavioral modifications. Consequent incentives may induce abstinence in patients by providing positive reinforcement. This treatment may be beneficial in preventing recurrence.

Rehabilitation programs

Lengthier treatment programs for drug abuse and addiction can be quite beneficial. These programs emphasize being drug-free while also resuming social, career, and familial commitments. Fully accredited residential institutions provide a secure living environment and any medical treatments or help that may be required. Short-term residential treatment focuses on detoxification and counseling to prepare individuals for a prolonged stay in a therapeutic community. Such a community and professionals aid recovery from and changes in attitudes about drug use. On the other hand, recovery housing provides a supervised, short-term stay to assist people in participating in duties and adjusting to a life free of substance abuse.

You don’t have to fight the battle alone when you or a loved one is battling an addiction. You must realize that addiction impacts every aspect of your life, including your relationships and mental health. The effectiveness of treatment is dependent on establishing a new way of life and addressing the causes of drug use in the first place. Make an appointment with a doctor. Treatments that have shown to be effective in the past can assist you in overcoming your addiction.