Substance abuse is a type of disorder wherein the person is unable to control their urges and cravings to intake a particular substance, such as drugs or alcohol, regardless of how dangerous the consequences may be. The addiction is so strong that their judgment becomes impaired to such an extent that anything and everything they say and do is ultimately for the purpose of getting more of their chosen substance.
Addiction has very severe consequences not only to physical health, but also to one’s personal relationships and professional careers. At worst, it can even be fatal. That’s why it’s important to seek help as soon as possible, so that rehabilitation can begin and the addiction is finally addressed.
If you or a loved one is going through substance abuse disorder, here are the different types of treatment options available.
Inpatient vs Outpatient
The first thing you need to know is that there is the option to choose between an inpatient and an intensive outpatient program.
As an inpatient, the patient is required to stay in the facility for the duration of the treatment program, which can run anywhere from a short couple of weeks to a full year, depending on the arrangement.
The good thing about inpatient programs is that it allows the patient to really focus on their wellness and recovery, not being distracted by everyday things such as work or dealing with family relationships still wrapped in tension. Once they are deemed capable enough to go back, armed with the skills they learned from the program, they can earn certain additional privileges such as unsupervised visits, or even solo trips outside the facility.
An intensive outpatient program, on the other hand, such as the ones offered in rehabilitation facilities like NuView Treatment Center (https://nuviewtreatment.com/treatment-programs/outpatient-rehab-program-los-angeles-iop/) is built upon the premise that the patient still has some sense of social functionality enough for them to continue with their daily life while attending treatment as an outpatient.
This is more focused on strengthening their abilities to make better choices even when placed in less than ideal situations and environments, and thus rely on a lot of group therapies that serve to provide a network of support systems.
Treatment Methods
Substance abuse may be addressed using different methods, including but not limited to detoxification, controlled medication, 12- step facilitation, rational emotive behavior therapy, and cognitive behavioral therapy.
These methods are designed to address the substance abuse disorder according to the stage or level that the patient is in. For example, a new inpatient in the facility might be someone who is so dependent on alcohol that they have stopped being functional at all, only doing things that are connected to obtaining and drinking more alcohol.
In this case, the first step would be to have them undergo detoxification to rid their system of the toxins. And then they can start working with a counselor or therapist to dig deep through the issues that triggered the addiction.
On the other hand, cognitive behavioral therapy might be suited best for those who are already at the stage wherein they are back in their regular environment, such as those in the intensive outpatient program, but could still use some guidance in exercising better judgment when making social choices to avoid their triggers.
To find the best-suited treatment type for you or your loved one suffering from substance abuse, consult first with a professional for a comprehensive evaluation.
