Alcohol and drug addiction affects more than 22.5 million Americans. What is more alarming is the fact that the number of people who die from a drug overdose has tripled in the past two decades, to about 100 deaths per day. Addiction to alcohol and drugs has a significant impact on both short-term and long-term health of an individual.
It is also accompanied by several issues that translate to professional, financial as well as social life, affecting our mental state, relationships and financial stability. However, the one positive thing about addiction is that it can be overcome, with proper treatment and dedication. Rehab facilities can be found near you and can set you on a path to a better life.
Types of substance abuse addiction
There are various types of addiction when it comes to drug abuse. These includes a number of medications such as prescription pain killers, substances such as cocaine, heroin, opioids, meth and Adderall, as well as calming medications such as Xanax, Ativan. In addition to the above, it is common to see hallucinogens and ecstasy being abused by individuals.
Is it possible to treat addiction?
Addiction can be treated. However, the process is not simple. This is because addiction is a chronic disease. Therefore, long-term and often repeated care is necessary and should help the addicted individual to achieve the following:
- Stop drug use
- Remain free from drug use
- Regain normal life habits and become productive to society and family
What are the types of treatments?
Addiction is unique to the individual. What might work for someone may not work for the other. Therefore, there is a range of options available that can successfully treat addiction, which includes:
- Behavioral counseling
- Medication
- Evaluation and treatment for conditions that arise from addiction such as depression and anxiety
- Long-term follow-ups
Components of effective treatment
An effective drug & alcohol treatment program should incorporate these key concepts
- Addiction affects the brain function and behavior, and is treatable, albeit complex.
- There is no single treatment that will work on everyone. Everyone is unique and the treatment option will depend on the individual.
- Addiction treatment should be quickly accessible.
- All patient needs are considered in the treatment, not just the drug use.
- Treatment should not be terminated early.
- Behavioral therapy such as counseling is incorporated into the treatment.
- Medication is a key component and is more effective when combined with behavioral therapy.
- Treatment plans are reviewed frequently and changed according to the patient’s changing needs.
- Other possible mental disorders such as depression and anxiety should also be addressed by treatment
- Drug use during treatment is monitored continuously
- Testing patients for HIV/AIDS, hepatitis, tuberculosis and other infectious diseases should be conducted and teaching them how they can reduce the risks of such diseases.
Access to addiction treatment
Of the 22.5 million Americans (8.5% of the population) affected by drug and alcohol abuse, only 4.2 million receive treatment. That sums up to only 18.5% people from the entire population that requires substance abuse treatment. Therefore, it is extremely important to seek treatment if you are suffering from addiction.
If you are not, and you know any friends and family who are struggling with addiction, this gives all the more reason to convince them to consider treatment and check out the Beach House Rehab Center for more information today to detox, rehab, and recover from your addiction.