The Facts on Addiction Therapy
There are many addictions that can take control of your life. The two most prevalent are illicit drugs and alcohol. With the lifestyle we as American lead, we don’t stop to consider if the occasional glass of wine with dinner or the few beers on Sunday afternoon watching the game will create a destructive pattern that might lead to addiction. This lack of concern is probably because it is socially acceptable to drink, and we don’t even see the warning signs until it starts to spiral out of control and is too late.
The statistics on addiction among youth and teenagers are alarming. Around 50 percent of high school seniors have abused a drug of some kind, and by the 8th grade, approximately 15 percent of kids have tried marijuana. Also, 64 percent of teenagers report using prescription drugs obtained from their parents or family members.
Types of Addiction Therapy
Addiction therapy is a viable treatment option for those addicted to drugs or alcohol. It is essential for recovery. The two types of therapy are group therapy and individual counseling. While someone may want to do individual therapy, it isn’t always the right choice for everyone. Group therapy is usually preferred because an addict is more likely to relate with others going through there same situation. Usually, people who are seeking individual therapy are being treated for one or more other underlying disorders that require treatments besides the drug and alcohol addiction.
In therapy, whether group or individual, the addiction therapist will teach the addict how to recognize and avoid the triggers that create thoughts to use. This is done by helping the addict to replace the negative urges with healthier ones. Drug and alcohol abuse specialists show the person how to recognize the thoughts, situations, and moods that create the craving.
Cognitive Behavior Therapy
Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) helps many of those addicted, but there are very few therapists that are trained in this type of treatment. These days, with the scientific understanding of how drug and alcohol affects the brain, cognitive therapists are able to gain more insight on how to treat the drug or alcohol patients so they can lead a long, healthy, addiction-free life.
Regardless of the therapy you choose, for recovery to be successful, you need to decide if it is right fit for you. Does it fit your beliefs and values? Do you believe that it will help you in your pursuit of recovery from drug and alcohol? These are questions you need to consider.
Meet with your substance abuse professional or counselor to ask questions about their success rate and what were the most effective treatments that worked 5, 10, and 20 years down the road. This is you taking charge and responsibility for your addiction, and you are the hiring manager. You are investing in yourself like a company invests in an employee. Over the long haul, you want to make sure the time is worth it.
The best drug and alcohol rehab center in San Diego is Pacific Bay Recovery. The center offers customized and comprehensive treatments including medical detox, inpatient treatment and intensive outpatient treatment as well for long term success. Call us today.
