Understanding Substance Abuse Treatment Options

By Jeff Molenda



Research shows that millions of people around the world abuse drugs

and alcohol. Substance abusers exhibit different temperaments, strange

behaviours and hurt people around them when substance cravings worsen.

Quitting substance dependence can be tough as addicts can experience a

number of withdrawal symptoms.



This makes the entire process even more

complex for them. Substance dependence warrants

instant treatment since overlooking the condition can

lead to serious problems. There are a number of

substance abuse treatment options that helps addicts

work towards sobriety.



Residential Inpatient Treatment



This treatment requires patients to live at the center for a

certain period of time so that their behavior can be

monitored. Treatment period can be 30 days to 1 year

although research shows that it can take at least 6

months for a successful result. This kind treatment

program is particularly effectual for criminal inmates,

substance-abusing youths, as well as people who have

lengthy histories of drug addiction.



The aim of this kind of

treatment is to help patients live a substance free and a

crime free life. Recovering addicts will be given support

to battle the sickening signs of withdrawal syndrome.

Intensive Outpatient Program



In this type of treatment program, recovering addicts

meet 3 days a week for about 2 to 4 hours per session.



Intensive outpatient program can be programmed around

work or school to enable addicts to carry on with their

daily activities, while still seeking substance abuse

assistance.



The cost of this program is less compared to

that of inpatient treatment making it an excellent choice

for most people struggling with substance addiction.

Outpatient centers provide behavioral treatments to

assist recovering addicts make smart decisions and to

lead better lives.



Sober Living



When recovering addicts leave residential treatment,

they are faced with many challenges. To help them stay

on track and avoid setbacks, they are sent to sober living

centers. This can either be a house or an apartment

where they will meet other patients who have walked the

path and are also trying to remain sober. Here they can

help out each other. Sober living is excellent for those

addicts who are influenced by other people or places

around them.



Counseling



Counseling is a very effective program when combined

with other types of treatment programs, rather than on its

own.



This type of treatment approach is intrinsic in

virtually every kind of treatment. A psychologist will assist

recovering individual find the main cause of their

addiction and learn new ways so that they can make

wise decisions.



Counseling sessions can be in groups,

one-on-one, or even family-oriented depending on the

center. Often times, recovering addicts can attend

sessions during evening or even weekend hours.



Medical Detox



Medical detox typically starts with a visit to an emergency

room. Often times, this kind of treatment is for serious

substance abusers and who are in danger of relapsing.



For the most part, people have a one-on-one kind of

treatment, although group counseling might also be

available. Detox program is used to stop relapse through

regular meetings.



These treatment programs can help substance addicts

recover from substance abuse and live healthier lives.



Jeff Molenda works at http://thecabinchiangmai.com