Substance use disorder or drug addiction is a treatable disease that affects your brain and behavior, such that you cannot control the use of substances such as legal or illegal drugs or medicines despite the harm they cause. Most cases of addiction start with using a recreational drug in social situations; for some, the use becomes more frequent. Beverly Hills addiction treatment can help you overcome addiction. The best addiction treatment is tailored according to your specific needs; it considers your age, the misused substance, and any related medical or mental health disorders you may have. Below are the different treatments for substance use disorder.

Behavioral therapies

Behavior therapy is a form of psychotherapy that is often part of a drug treatment program. However, healthcare providers may sometimes use behavioral therapies as the only treatment. A psychologist or a psychiatrist offers this treatment; it can be done with an individual or a group. Behavioral therapies are helpful for individuals with co-occurring drug addiction and mental disorders. Examples of behavioral therapies include cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), dialectical behavioral therapy (DBT), assertive community treatment (ACT), therapeutic communities (TC), and contingency management (CM).

Your provider works with you to develop strategies for overcoming cravings and preventing relapse. You may also discuss your job, legal problems, and relationship with friends and family. Therapy may also include family members to help them be supportive. If you also have a mental health condition, your provider will offer treatment simultaneously.

Medication

There are various effective medications that your healthcare provider may recommend as part of your treatment for opioid, alcohol, or nicotine addiction. These medicines don’t cure your addiction, but they are helpful in your recovery. They can lessen your cravings for nicotine or opioids, reducing your risk of a relapse. If you have an opioid addiction, your healthcare provider may prescribe methadone, buprenorphine, naltrexone, and a combination of buprenorphine and naloxone.

Withdrawal therapy

Withdrawal therapy or detoxification helps you stop using the addicting drug faster and in the safest way possible. Therapy may be administered on an outpatient basis, but at other times one may need admission to a hospital or a residential treatment center. Withdrawal from different drug categories requires different approaches and produces different side effects. For this treatment, your healthcare provider may gradually lower the drug dose or substitute other substances, such as methadone or buprenorphine. 

Self-help groups

Addiction is an ongoing disorder with a risk of relapse, especially if you are embarrassed or isolated. Joining a support group can help decrease the sense of shame and isolation that can lead to a relapse. You can consult your therapist or licensed counselor if you need help locating a self-help group. Support groups are also available online, or you can find some in your community.

Do not hesitate to seek medical help if you are battling drug addiction; early intervention increases your chances for long-term recovery.

Book an appointment with your healthcare provider at MindMD Wellness if you need treatment for substance use disorder.