Substance abuse is the recurrent dangerous consumption of substances like drugs and alcohol. The substance may be prescription drugs or banned substances that are not even categorized as drugs.

It is advisable for those struggling with substance abuse to get treatment from rehab centers for the sake of their health and overall wellbeing. Below are some of the things you need to know about substance abuse treatment.

How Effective is Substance Abuse Therapy?

The effectiveness of the therapy depends on the patient receiving the substance abuse treatment, the therapist, how the engagement of the treatment is, and other people who are part of the treatment team. It has been found that patients carry whatever they learn from the behavioral sessions and still apply them in their lives even when they complete the treatment.

Contingency management is highly effective when dealing with various drug use disorders, like alcohol, opioids, stimulants, and marijuana. Some of its rewards include cash prizes or vouchers and also helps them recover by ensuring they engage in positive activities that help them abstain.

What Medications are Used In Substance Abuse Treatment?

Medications play a vital role when combined with behavioral therapies when treating patients who are struggling with addiction. A variety of drugs may be used to minimize cravings and control withdrawal from benzodiazepines, alcohol, opioids, and other sedatives.

Patients addicted to opioids may be given medications like methadone and buprenorphine combined with antagonist therapy alongside naltrexone. For patients fighting disorders from alcohol consumption, medicines such as disulfiram, nialtrexone, and acamprosate can be given to them to help them reduce their continuous drinking behavior.

More medications may be administered to help manage withdrawal symptoms and any recurring mental or other medical issues. If you are uncertain regarding the cost of rehab, then make consultations on whether all or part of the treatment cost can be covered by insurance.

Other Comprehensive and Alternative Substance Abuse Therapy

Different forms of therapies can be incorporated to complement the other treatments listed above to speed up the recovery process. However, these methods cannot substitute the standard treatment programs.

The treatment methods assist patients in recovering by helping them control their stress levels to help them focus on recovery. Some of these therapies include;

Meditation>Patients experience a lot of stress during the recovery period, and thus, meditation assists them in coping with depression, anxiety, and general health. One of the ways a patient can get maximum benefits of the treatment is through mindfulness meditation.

Yoga> Yoga comes in various forms with both gentle and strenuous styles. There are multiple benefits accompanied by yoga: minimizing physical tension or stress and becoming more self-aware.

Exercise> To control negative emotions and patients engage in physical activity. Consumption of some substances causes weight gain, and regular activity can also help in maintaining one’s weight too.

Conclusion

Suppose you or your loved one is suffering from substance abuse. In that case, it is advisable to visit the substance treatment center and consult with the doctor on a suitable treatment plan for you, depending on your situation. Remember that you are not alone, and it is okay to seek help.