A Challenge that Requires the Best Treatment
Drug and alcohol addiction is a challenge that requires solutions that work. Although every individual will have different treatment needs, the state of Michigan has a wide range of treatment options available.
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy
Cognitive behavioral therapy is a treatment options that is used for drug or alcohol addiction. The therapy focuses on changing the way men and women think, which in turn impacts the habit of abusing drugs or alcohol.
The psychological treatment for substance abuse can provide opportunities to give up the drugs or alcohol. Michigan treatment programs offer cognitive behavioral therapy as part of the program, though it may be only part of the best treatment approach to overcome an addiction.
When the substance that was abused causes severe withdrawal symptoms, doctors within a treatment program might determine that the only solution is a medication treatment that helps reduce the discomfort.
Medication is primarily used during the detoxification process. After the body has removed the drug or alcohol from the system, the medications are gradually reduced. Depending on the program and the concerns about the health of the individual, the length of time that medications are used during treatment will vary.
Treating an addiction with medication is designed to help regulate and improve brain function. It is most commonly used when a substance abuser was taking opioid drugs or drinking heavily. Opioid and alcohol withdrawals can potentially cause health problems if measures are not taken to reduce the impact of withdrawal symptoms. In most cases, medication treatment is used as part of the treatment program.
A treatment program in Michigan will usually include some form of counseling to help overcome the challenges of addiction. Most programs will include one-on-one counseling and group counseling to work through different challenges that are associated with addiction. In some cases, family counseling is also available to rebuild and improve the family unit.
In one-on-one counseling, a professional will help uncover any trauma, mental health conditions or other issues that are making substance abuse more tempting. Even if the addiction developed accidentally as a result of taking medications for legitimate reasons, a counselor can help individuals work through any issues that have developed as a direct result of substance abuse.
During group therapy, others in the treatment facility discuss their own substance abuse struggles, offer advice about ways to fight the temptation of substance abuse and offer understanding when an individual is discussing personal struggles. That support system can be a powerful tool for some individuals.
The family therapy may or may not be part of a personalized program. Family therapy is designed to improve the ability to overcome the problem through two main purposes: it helps the family understand the addiction and it provides the loving support an individual needs to keep fighting after treatment is completed.
Family and friends offer powerful reasons to fight the addiction. The therapy can help mend relationships that were damaged as a result of the addiction and helps loved ones understand the addiction so they can recognize the problem or help fight the temptation to abuse drugs in the future.
Although programs differ, Michigan treatments for addiction include some form of counseling. It is useful and can help individuals work through any problems that are contributing to the addiction.
Addiction is not always caused by emotional or mental turmoil. In some cases, the addiction develops as a result of physical health conditions or physical pain. The attempt to reduce the discomfort or pain can lead to destructive behaviors or self-medication.
Medical treatments are an effective way to help fight the addiction when it is caused by health problems.
Effective addiction treatment will always incorporate a wide range of solutions. Among the options that Michigan residents might find useful is a holistic approach to treating the addiction.
Since addiction is multi-causal, which means it has several causes, it is not always possible to address the problem by focusing solely on the addiction. Drug or alcohol abuse can develop from physical, mental, emotional or spiritual problems.
A holistic treatment approach will include alternative medicine and solutions that help improve every area of life.
The treatment options that a holistic program might offer include:
- Yoga or deep breathing
- Art classes
- Music workshops
- Dance lessons
- Martial arts classes
- Sports or exercise programs
- Massage therapy to reduce physical pain
- Faith-based teachings
The holistic treatment approach focuses on meeting several needs. In some cases, it might mean that a substance abuser will need to move beyond a personal comfort zone and try something new. By getting involved in hobbies, trying alternative approaches to pain management or focusing on spiritual growth, it is possible to address more than the basic physical and mental aspects of addiction.