Top Ways to Treat Alcohol and Substance Abuse

Top Ways to Treat Alcohol and Substance Abuse

Many people irrespective of age, gender and, social status indulge in alcohol consumption. There are multiple reasons why they start to have it but out of these, some people are unable to keep the habit under control and it soon spirals into an addiction. The cases of substance abuse and addiction are also similar. Often, there is not just one cause for an individual to get addicted to alcohol or other substances but it is a combination of factors that result in it. This can leave you with permanent health complications such as damaged internal organs.

In most cases, the substances or alcohol indulged in leads to a chemical reaction in the brain that gives an illusion of happiness and contentment, among others. As tolerance to the substance builds, one will have to consume more and more of the item to trigger the same sensation. Soon, they become wholly dependent on it to function and any attempt to stop leads to severe withdrawal symptoms, making it difficult to quit.

According to a survey in the United States, around 8.1% of the population or 21.7 million people receive regular treatment for substance disorders. Depending upon the person, the type of abuse, and the exact case history, there are many treatment plans for addiction disorders. The following are the treatment options for alcohol and substance abuse:

  • Detoxification
    It is usually the first step taken to treat the patient. This process involves the elimination of toxins from the body and making the body substance-free. The procedure is done by health professionals with safe techniques to ease the withdrawal process and manage the side effects. Medications are then given to patients to reduce the withdrawal symptoms.
  • Rehab centers
    Rehabs are the best treatment options for alcohol and substance abuse as these centers offer the best form of comprehensive addiction care. Patients are allowed to reside in a substance-free facility under medical surveillance. They are given a combination of physical therapy, occupational therapy, and speech therapy depending on the individual case. These centers help the patients restore functionality and be a contributing member of society after recovering from their addiction.
  • Sober homes
    Sober homes are meant for those aiming to get free of intoxication. They enable the patients to improve their lifestyle. The environment in such homes is calm, peaceful and supportive.
  • Medication
    Doctors and rehabilitation specialists prescribe medication to a person which helps them to fight various disorders, illnesses, depression, and anxiety. This treatment helps to reduce cravings and prevents a recurrence in using substances and alcohol. Medication is more effective when taken in conjunction with a comprehensive treatment program; however, it can also be the primary mode of treatment.
  • Behavioral therapy and counseling
    Recovering from an addiction is not that easy. Therapy sessions are organised by addiction counsellors so that an individual can recover faster. The main aim of these is to improve the mental health and behavior patterns to more positive coping mechanisms and understanding of oneself. The supportive surroundings enable them to also discuss certain issues that may have been troubling them in the past. Yoga and meditation are advised to overcome any side effects and remove the chances of veering towards the triggers in life.

Along with these treatment options for alcohol and substance abuse, it takes will power and self-discipline of an individual for better results and to quit the bad habit completely. The environment in which they reside should be happy and enjoyable.