Mind-altering substances, such as drugs and alcohol, can be taken for a wide variety of reasons. It may be to celebrate a special occasion, to unwind after an unruly day, or to briefly escape one’s problems. Unfortunately, long-term excessive use of these substances can lead to addiction, which is guaranteed to cause more problems than it solves. For those suffering from a substance use disorder, life can feel like a chaotic rollercoaster of unpredictable ups and downs, throwing the body into a constant state of emotional influx. In many ways, addiction can create feelings of powerlessness as substance use begins to take priority over all areas of life. Luckily, freedom from addiction is possible through substance abuse treatment.
What is a Substance Use Disorder?
A substance use disorder is a disease that impacts the brain and behavior. This disorder can lead to an inability to control drug use despite the consequences it may incur. Oftentimes substance abuse disorders begin with experimentation in social settings. ‘Others may develop an addiction through exposure to prescription medications such as opioids and painkillers. Regardless of its origins, long-term excessive use can cause alterations in how the brain functions and regulates emotional balance. Drugs and alcohol introduce an influx of chemicals to the brain that produces the euphoric sensations related to intoxication. Long-term excessive use can cause the brain to become reliant on these substances to produce chemicals that it would otherwise produce itself in moderation.
Being Free from Addiction Through Substance Abuse Treatment
Freedom from addiction is possible, but it can be much more easily obtained through a substance abuse treatment program. Substance abuse treatment is a treatment program crafted specifically for the needs of those who are suffering from addiction. There are many different types of substance abuse treatment that one can participate in when trying to get sober, each of which is tailored to a specific drug or patient. One should consider substance abuse treatment if they are experiencing the following:
- Taking substances multiple times a day
- Inability to stop using a substance
- Requiring substances to function normally
- Gradual/noticeable rise in tolerance
- Inability to control the quantity of substance intake
- Taking substances at inappropriate times
- Experiencing withdrawal symptoms upon stopping substance use
- Failure to meet obligations at work, at home, or within one’s social life
Substance abuse treatment addresses the root causes of addiction by utilizing a variety of evidence-based therapeutic techniques.
What Does Substance Abuse Treatment Look Like?
Treatment typically begins with detox, a process that sees the body rid itself of any residual addictive chemicals still lingering in the body once usage has stopped. This is often one of the most difficult stages of treatment as withdrawal symptoms can exact a heavy physical toll on the body. Once detox has commenced, patients will work with therapists in one on one and in group settings to discuss aspects of their addiction. These discussions are aimed at giving patients a better understanding of why they use and why they need to stop. Towards the end of treatment, patients will work with their doctors to develop an aftercare plan. This plan is designed to help patients practice what they learned in treatment in addition to strategies for avoiding relapse.
Finding Freedom From Addiction at Sante Center for Healing
Freedom from addiction is possible, but it can be a difficult journey. That is why it is best to undertake this journey with a group of medical professionals that can be trusted. At Sante Center for Healing, we know all too well how difficult the road to recovery is and want nothing more than to provide our patients with quality care so that they may overcome their addiction and take back control of life. For more information on substance abuse treatment or to schedule an appointment today, contact us at 866.238.3154.
