Tag: addiction treatment

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Whether an individual is addicted to alcohol, drugs or a combination of both, addiction recovery is often a long and arduous process. In fact, recovery is a lifelong endeavor where the addict may experience many ups and downs and ride a figurative “roller coaster” of emotions and cravings until they have achieved abstinence and settled into healthier patterns.

In many instances, some type of intervention by friends, family or other sources is the first step toward encouraging an addict to enter into a recovery program. Then, the addiction treatment and recovery process begins, which generally consists of detoxification, intensive counseling and sometimes a stay at a rehabilitation facility.

Continuing Care is Crucial

Though many addicts eventually go into “remission,” and reach a point where they are able to manage their desire to use, the tendency to relapse is always a concern. Many addicts are able to eventually completely cease their addictive behaviors and move forward with their lives. However, others may fall back into destructive patterns at some point, even if their former behaviors lay dormant for years.

This is why aftercare plays such a vital role in the recovery process. After successful completion of a treatment program, counselors or clinicians will tailor an aftercare or “continuing care” plan to fit the individual needs of a recovering addict.

Aftercare programs are usually administered for at least six months after initial treatment. They may include admission into a transitional facility for a period of time, and in most cases are ongoing at least on some level. Continuing care can consist of a variety of activities including regular meetings, counseling sessions and the joining of a 12-step or group support program.

Developing relationships with other recovering addicts who have achieved sobriety is often very helpful. Avoiding unhealthy environments where temptations may exist is strongly encouraged. With attentive support, ongoing education and periodic counseling, the recovering addict can change their course and develop the skills necessary to live a good, productive and sober life.

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This blog is written and published by Lindner Center of HOPE.

 

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Addictions not only affect the physical, emotional and mental health of the addict, but also create a burden for the people in their lives. Even after emphatically urging them to seek treatment, those close to an addict or severe substance abuser are often helpless as they watch their friend or loved one sink further into the depths of addiction.

There are many dangers and potentially deadly complications associated with drug, alcohol abuse and addiction. But the greatest danger is the unwillingness of the addict to accept the fact that there is a problem and admit they need help. Unfortunately, it sometimes takes a devastating event in their life — such as an automobile accident, an arrest or an overdose — for the addict to finally agree to receive addiction treatment.

Signs of an Addiction

An addictive disorder exists when an individual is unable to control their drug or alcohol use to the point where these substances play a dominant role in their life. Other addictive behaviors and signs include changes in mood and appearance, the eschewing of personal and work responsibilities and experiencing symptoms of withdrawal when the substance is not available.

Overcoming Denial

It is not uncommon for drug or alcohol addicts to minimize the seriousness of their problem or flat out deny its existence. Denial is often deeply ingrained within an individual, convincing themselves there is no real problem or they can “quit anytime they want to.”

Denial is a major reason why addicts many times hit “rock bottom” before they begin to consider taking steps toward recovery. Optimally, the realization that help is needed will emerge within the addict before intervention becomes necessary. From there, addiction recovery can begin through routes such as education, therapy, support groups and specialized treatment centers. But it all begins with the addict admitting their dilemma, and expressing a sincere desire to recover.

 

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This blog is written and published by Lindner Center of HOPE.

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Addictions come in many forms. But those suffering with develop an uncontrollable urge to revisit a substance, activity or behavior in order to satisfy a need or desire. An addiction may fill a void in one’s life, or act as a salve for a festering emotional wound.

Those at the mercy of their addictive behaviors often experience gradually increasing levels of emotional pain and deteriorating mental or physical health. Another byproduct of serious addiction is the tendency to eschew responsibilities and neglect important aspects within one’s life, such as friends, family, school and career. Many suffering with addictions are also prone to struggles with depression.

Treating Addictive Disorders

Addictive personality disorder is a condition where an individual carries traits making them more susceptible to addictive behaviors. However, anyone at any stage or walk of life can develop an addiction.

People can become addicted to eating, gambling, smoking, exercise and countless other activities that offer comfort or what they determine to be an “escape.” But the most pervasive and widely-publicized addiction in our society involves alcohol and drugs.

Alcoholism and drug addiction are serious health problems in the U.S. and around the world. Those who become dependent on alcohol and drugs subject themselves to a life full of difficulties ranging from relationship and legal problems to homelessness and destitution.

Addiction recovery is often a long-term and sometimes arduous process. But with proper medical care and support from friends and family, addiction treatment can be successful.

Inpatient addiction centers such as Cincinnati, Ohio’s Lindner Center of Hope and Sibcy House are examples of facilities providing environments conducive to success in treating addictive disorders. Using a team of experienced mental health specialists and an intensive, cutting-edge treatment plan focusing on detoxification and stabilization, Lindner Center of Hope sets the standard for addiction treatment. Its reputation for helping those with addictive disorders go on to live fulfilling, productive lives continues to grow.