If you or a loved one has decided to get treatment for a substance use disorder, you may be wondering what treatment actually entails. Maybe you go to rehab for a while, but what do you do there, and how does it work? The best approach is a multifaceted one that covers not just the physical, but also the emotional and psychological aspects of addiction. This type of holistic approach can give you the best chance at getting clean and sober, and staying that way.
In this article, you’ll read about some of the most effective strategies used to treat substance use disorders. These include behavioral therapies, medication-assisted treatments (MAT), support groups, and wellness activities. You’ll also see how all these strategies work together to form the pillars of a successful approach to detox and recovery. No one strategy works best; it’s all about finding the right combination to facilitate your healing.
Behavioral Therapies
Behavioral therapies usually consist of one-on-one talk therapy sessions with a licensed practitioner. A therapist will typically work with an individual to understand mental health factors that may be influencing their addiction. For instance, many people with substance use disorders also need help managing depression, anxiety, bipolar, or post traumatic stress disorder. Therapy helps treat the whole person and gets down to the root causes of addictive behavior.
Therapy may focus on one therapeutic modality (type of therapy) or incorporate strategies from several different schools. Some common therapy modalities used in substance use disorder recovery are cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) and dialectical behavior therapy (DBT). These therapies focus on building specific skills to help cope with or manage addiction symptoms. Over time, the individual builds confidence and learns to avoid self-destructive behaviors.
In a typical inpatient or intensive outpatient setting, the individual might meet with their therapist once or twice a week for about an hour. That therapist may or may not be the same person in charge of running their support group, or prescribing medication. The one-on-one sessions give the individual a chance to build rapport and trust with their practitioner. It’s a safe space to learn how to manage symptoms, cope with triggers, and build the skills needed for success.
Medication-Assisted Treatments (MAT)
In some cases, cravings and withdrawal symptoms can be difficult, uncomfortable, or even dangerous to quit cold turkey. Depending on the substance, there may be a risk of symptoms like seizures, tremors, hallucinations, nausea and vomiting, or mental health issues. If you regularly use any of these substances, it’s important to consult a healthcare provider before trying to quit. It’s important to do so in a safe environment with medical oversight and precautions.
For people with addictions to alcohol, benzodiazepine, and opiates, special medications are available that can help ease the symptoms of withdrawal. Providers usually prescribe these medications in conjunction with therapy and other treatment options. For example, an opioid treatment facility might prescribe methadone or suboxone. These medications lessen cravings and other uncomfortable symptoms, without the euphoria their addictive counterparts induce.
People who use these medications consistently are less likely to relapse and return to drug or alcohol addiction. However, the availability of these medications can sometimes make that a little tricky. For example, you can’t get methadone from a pharmacy; it must be picked up from a clinic. An intensive outpatient or inpatient rehab facility can make it easier to get consistent access to necessary medications, increasing the chances of successful recovery.
Support Groups
In the 1970s, a series of scientific studies found that rats with plenty of opportunities to socialize were less dependent on morphine-laced water. What this study tells us is that environment and community support are crucial to effective recovery from behavioral addiction. People who are lonely or under stimulated may find it harder to avoid substance abuse. Mental health symptoms can flare up, and even simple boredom can trigger a return to familiar comforts.
In support groups, individuals meet in a judgement-free space to share their feelings, challenges, and recovery goals. These groups can help people in recovery stay accountable and feel more accepted by their community. By joining support groups, many individuals experience a shared sense of purpose in working toward recovery. That sense of belonging, accountability, and a common mission can help keep them on track as they rehabilitate.
Arguably the most popular — or at least the most widely known type of support group — is the 12-step program (Alcoholics Anonymous or Narcotics Anonymous). This program asks participants to surrender themselves to a higher power, and take a set series of steps toward healing. There are also non-religious support groups to choose from, including dialectical behavior therapy (DBT) groups and a number of “AA alternatives.”
Holistic Approaches to Substance Abuse
Good overall health and well-being are foundational to a successful recovery because a well-balanced diet and regular exercise improve mood. People who take care of themselves are more likely to feel better in general, decreasing their likelihood of relapse. Proper diet and exercise can even reduce symptoms of mental health disorders, chronic pain, and other issues that can lead to drug abuse.
A good substance use treatment program should incorporate some basic wellness education and facilitate overall well-being. This might include opportunities for exercise, nutritious food, and dedicated mindfulness practices, like mediation, yoga, or art therapy. Time outdoors and in nature can also have a beneficial impact on successful recovery. If you’re choosing a treatment program, look for one with a wide range of relaxing, experiential activities.
The More the Merrier
Remember, there’s no single right way to treat substance use disorders. The most successful treatment plans integrate multiple strategies — along with community and overall wellness. Most people in recovery benefit from a well-rounded combination of behavioral therapy, medication-assistant treatments, support groups, and holistic practices. That’s because recovery needs to address the whole person, not just their substance use disorder.
A residential or intensive outpatient treatment program combines all of these strategies into one program. Pathways Real Life Recovery takes care of the social, physical, mental, and emotional aspects of alcohol and drug addiction. It’s not just about quitting, but about real healing. Our team of professionals handles everything from therapy to medication management and beyond, in a safe, supportive, comfortable environment. All you need to worry about is getting better.
