Addiction treatment does not come in a one-size-fits-all package. Treatments may differ depending on your needs. You can select the best treatment for you based on the substance you're abusing, the level of care you require, your personal mental health needs, or the health care options you can afford. Here are some of the most common addiction treatments that have helped patients achieve long-term recovery.
Detoxification
Medically assisted detox allows you to cleanse your body of addictive substances in a secure setting. This is advantageous because substance withdrawal can result in unpleasant or even life-threatening physical symptoms. Detox is typically used in conjunction with other therapies because it does not address the underlying behavioural causes of addiction.
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Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT)
According to American Addiction Centers, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) is a valuable treatment tool because it can be used to treat a variety of addictions, including but not limited to food addiction, alcohol addiction, and prescription drug addiction. CBT can help you not only recognise your unhealthy behavioural patterns, but also learn to identify triggers and develop coping skills. CBT can be used in conjunction with other therapeutic techniques.
Rational Emotive Behavior Therapy (REBT)
Rational Emotive Behavior Therapy (REBT) may assist you in recognising negative thoughts and combating feelings of self-defeat. REBT's goal is to help you realise that the power of rational thinking is within you and not dependent on external situations or stressors.
Facilitation in 12 Steps
Alcohol and substance abuse can be treated with 12-step facilitation therapy ("12-step programmes"). It is a type of group therapy that acknowledges that addiction has a variety of negative consequences that can be social, emotional, spiritual, or physical. This type of therapy begins with acceptance, then progresses to surrender to a higher power, and finally to participation in regular group meetings. Alcoholics Anonymous, for example, uses group meetings for discussion and mutual support.
Medication-Assisted Treatment
When combined with behavioural therapies, medication can play an important role in recovery. Certain medications can be used to suppress cravings, improve mood, and reduce addictive behaviours. For example, the FDA recently approved lofexidine to help patients receiving opioid addiction treatment reduce cravings and withdrawal symptoms. Acamprosate, for example, is a medication that can help reduce drinking behaviour.
If you or a loved one is struggling with an addiction, you don't have to go it alone. Speak with a medical professional. There are effective treatments available to assist you in overcoming your addiction.
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