Addiction is a complex disease that requires many different physical and psychological treatment methods to overcome. Many people hold the erroneous view that addiction is simply physical dependence, and an individual is cured of addiction once their physical dependence to a substance is broken. The simple fact is that addiction cannot be cured. It can, however, be treated in a manner that allows an individual to achieve and maintain permanent sobriety. Professional treatment works by addressing all aspects of one’s addiction, from initial detoxification of the body to aftercare programs that aid a person in the daily maintenance of the disease. Treatment general begins with detoxifying the body of any traces of alcohol or drugs. Professional treatment facilities provide medically assisted detox so safely manage withdrawal symptoms. Some withdrawal symptoms, such as those that occur from alcohol or benzodiazepines, can cause seizures or heart-attacks, so professional detox assistance is absolutely necessary. Other drugs, such as opiates, cause such intense withdrawal symptoms that it is unlikely a person will make it through the detox process without relapsing unless they have medical assistance to ease their symptoms. However, detox is not sufficient in treating long-term substance abuse on its own. After the detox process, an individual should engage in a treatment plan made up of various therapeutic techniques to address other factors related to their addiction. The National Institute on Drug Abuse explains, “A patient may require varying combinations of services and treatment components during the course of treatment and recovery. In addition to counseling or psychotherapy, a patient may require medication, medical services, family therapy, parenting instruction, vocational rehabilitation, and/or social and legal services. For many patients, a continuing care approach provides the best results, with the treatment intensity varying according to a person’s changing needs.” These therapeutic techniques allow a person to understand the root causes of their addiction as well as develop strategies to avoid relapse one they leave treatment. Stress, environment, and relationships can all be factors that a lead a person back into drug and alcohol abuse. Developing coping strategies and tools to prevent relapse is a necessary part of treatment that one will not have the opportunity to do unless they receive professional treatment.
Your story can be one of happiness and freedom in sobriety. You can make the decision to seek help today and take the first step on the journey of recovery. Oceanfront Recovery, a treatment facility in beautiful Laguna Beach, offers cutting-edge treatment techniques and methodologies to meet your unique, individual needs. For more information about individualized treatment options, please call today: (877) 279-1777
