An addiction to alcohol or drugs can be life-changing. You might find that you can’t go a single day without using the substance and need more of it to go about your day. This is a crippling problem that controls your life and sometimes, your very existence. Once you realize how big a problem you have, you might start to wonder where to turn.
This is actually a good sign. Once you reach that point, you are acknowledging that you have a serious substance use disorder and need help. Regardless of whether you have a problem with alcohol, prescription drugs or something illicit, you can go through the process of detox and rehab treatment. However, once you have completed those aspects of your treatment, you might wonder if you still need addiction help. There are many options available to you that you might want to consider to keep going on the right path.
Why Do You Need Additional Help for Your Addiction?
When you have a serious substance use disorder, it doesn’t just mean you’re dependent on that substance. Although detox removes all traces of alcohol or drugs from your body, you are still at a high risk of relapsing. This is because physical dependence is not the only factor for relapse. In reality, you can end up falling off the wagon for other reasons as well. Everyday stress and specific issues that cause you extreme stress may push you to use again.
The environment around you is another huge factor that can result in a relapse. Certain areas might conjure up memories of your substance use disorder or you might run into your old dealer who might tempt you into buying again.
For example, if you suddenly run into a friend who has done drugs with you, it can increase the risk that you will have a weak moment and use again. Even if you have cut ties with this person, if you encounter them unexpectedly, it can have certain consequences.
A number of things can trigger a relapse when you’ve dealt with substance use disorder. Simply going through the detox process and treatment isn’t enough for staying the course when it comes to your sobriety. Counseling and therapy can help and are tailored toward your personal needs based on your situation, health, and other factors.
Counseling and Therapy Options
You can choose from different types of counseling and therapy options. While some people find that individual therapy is best for them, others might deem group therapy much better. With individual therapy, you meet one-on-one with a counselor who can help you individually to understand why you went down this path and what you can do to continue maintaining your newfound sobriety.
Group therapy is often helpful because it allows you to meet with other like-minded people who have gone through the same or very similar experiences with their own substance use disorder. Group therapy gives you the opportunity to get support from your peers who can give you insight into what has worked for them.
Cognitive-behavioral therapy is an excellent choice if you also have a mental health disorder such as depression, bipolar disorder or anxiety. It allows you to get to the root of your addiction and why you started using in the first place. You can learn valuable tools on how to better handle triggers that would otherwise lead to using drugs or alcohol.
Twelve-Step Programs
There are also 12-step programs that can help. These groups also help by allowing you to meet with your peers and garner support from one another. However, 12-step programs aren’t as comprehensive as they are not led by psychotherapists. Many people dealing with substance use disorder have co-occurring conditions. This means they have substance use disorder as well as a mental health condition, which requires more extensive help from someone with a psychiatric background and training.
Outpatient Programs or Residential Treatment
You might want to consider going to an outpatient facility to continue your new sober lifestyle. You can enter a comprehensive program that allows you to live at home, attend work or school and care for family. You come in for your treatment sessions several hours during the week so that you can stay on track. You get to learn valuable skills that you can take with you long into the future.
Another option you might want to consider is residential treatment in the form of a sober living home. Depending on the length and severity of your addiction, this might be a better option as it means you stay in the facility and follow the house rules. It’s stricter and often more effective while you get the continuing help you need to curb your addiction.
If you’re finally ready to get help, give us a call today at 855-936-4435.
