Anyone who has struggled with addiction, or knows someone else who has, doubtless realizes that substance dependence is an incredibly complex issue. Addiction impacts practically every area of a person’s life. It comes as no surprise, then, that treating substance dependence is not a simple matter. Different specialists approach addiction recovery from distinct angles, and individual treatment programs often utilize multiple strategies. Consider five common approaches and how they may benefit those battling substance dependence.
- One-on-One Counseling
A primary addiction treatment in Lexington is working with a counselor one-on-one. In general, these sessions aim to change people’s perspectives, thought patterns, and behaviors. While it is true that most counselors have similar goals, they employ a variety of techniques. A common strategy is known as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy. Others include Rational Emotive Behavior Therapy and Dialectical Behavioral Therapy.
- Group Counseling
Many specialists see great value in bringing people together to work through shared challenges. Meeting regularly in a group may encourage those recovering from addiction by showing them that they are not the only ones facing these difficult circumstances. Group treatments may also help participants to form valuable social connections and increase their level of accountability.
- Follow-Up Care
Addiction recovery is a process, and usually a lengthy one. After a person’s initial treatment is complete, it is critical that he or she still checks in with counselors or other professionals from time to time. This is because people’s circumstances may go back to normal, making it more difficult to maintain a new lifestyle. Relapses are common among those fighting substance dependence, but these instances can be short-lived if they are addressed quickly.
- Medication
Medication-Assisted Treatment does not replace counseling, but rather supplements it. The medications that professionals subscribe to those recovering from addiction vary depending on the addictive substances involved. In general, the medicine is meant to reduce cravings and make the transition to sobriety much smoother. Examples of prescriptions used for the purpose of MAT include Naltrexone and Buprenorphine.
- Addressing Comorbidities
Finally, it is widely recognized that addiction is frequently accompanied by other psychological concerns. Successfully ending substance dependence often requires treating these other problems in addition to the addiction. Common comorbidities include various anxiety disorders, bipolar disorder, and depressive disorders. Depending on the illnesses present and their severity, specialists may provide multiple different types of treatment. Those with comorbidities may receive psychotropic medications, in addition to different counseling therapies.
Because addiction is so complex and deeply impactful, effective treatments must combat it from all sides. With a varied combination of counseling techniques and medications, professionals hope to give people the best chance possible of making a full recovery. Other factors, such as the support of loved ones and modification of old routines, also play important roles in the recovery process.
If you are or someone you know is struggling with addiction, be sure to look into treatment programs near you. Cast a broad net to pinpoint an option that is compatible with your insurance, your values, and your particular circumstances.
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