Thursday, May 2, 2013

Chemical Dependency Center Offers Hope For Addictions

By Alison Wilcox


People do not begin using drugs or alcohol with the intention of becoming addicted to them. However, these substances cause subtle but significant changes in the brain so that the user begins craving more of the drug of choice. Help from a chemical dependency center may be a key to sobriety.

Traditionally, it was taught that individuals had to hit their rock bottom before seeking help. Today it is known that family interventions are often an effective way of helping individuals to seek care before their destructive path causes any more negative consequences. At the least, the intervention can allow family members to show their support, set boundaries and encourage the person to get effective help for the problem.

The beginning step in becoming clean is checking into a detox program. During this program, the body is able to eliminate toxins collected as a result of drug use. Nearly all detox facilities offer a minimum of medical supervision during the process. In some facilities, patients may be used to reduce physical symptoms of withdrawal, keeping patient comfortable in the process.

During the first day or two of the detox facility, individuals usually do not feel like doing a lot. However, as they begin to feel better they might be encouraged to begin attending group sessions. The group includes other people struggling with addictions and is normally led by a counselor or other licensed professional.

Once the patient completes the detox process he then moves to the treatment program. There are both in-house and outpatient treatment programs. In-house treatment offers a more sheltered environment. In outpatient programs, patients may continue to live at home, but it could be easier to relapse when living at home.

Most facilities base treatment on cognitive behavioral therapy. The patient is expected to discover what triggers him or her to use drugs in the first place. Then patients learn to participate in other activities when the temptations become stronger. Patients who find stress as a trigger may find relaxing with the appropriate type of music can help to avoid using drugs again. Others may find they need to break ties with certain individuals who serve as a trigger.

Most in-house treatment programs take 30 days to complete. During this time, visitors may be limited. Individuals will be required to take time off from work and other responsibilities. Once released, they may transition to a group home before finally going home. They often need the structure for successfully breaking their habits. Outpatient programs are generally longer. Both types of facilities often use random drug testing to ensure patient's compliance with their programs.

Even though a person has completed the program at a chemical dependency center, he or she remains an addict. Most centers direct patients to an after-care program. Many of the after-care programs are based on the twelve-step program. Others may be based on a counseling model. Effective aftercare is essential to maintaining sobriety. With proper treatment and aftercare, it is possible to be sober for the rest of one's life.




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