What exactly is substance use disorder?
In years past, they used to call you an alcoholic. You were a druggie. Or an addict. And ultimately, we have discovered that this language didn’t help.
It doesn’t help the person with the addiction, and it doesn’t help their loved ones who might have some reason to be angry but still doesn’t fully understand the sickness of substance abuse disorder.
Through research and real-life application, we have learned that language that respects disorders and individuals helps them recognize that a condition does not define them. Sure, substance use disorder is a disease, but the fact remains decisions and actions bring addiction—poor choices—in their opinion. Some people watching loved ones from the outside struggle with this.
Substance Use Disorder Treatment in Austin—Beyond Stigma
This view is understandable but ultimately naive to the complexities of substance use disorders. Yes, addiction is brought on by behaviors. (So are type two diabetes, some lung cancers, and to some degree, heart disease). But the root causes are diverse, complex, and unique to each individual.
When we talk about substance use disorders, we refer to brain disease. Psychology has had a role in a person’s SUD, but through the constant use of an addictive substance, their brain chemistry has changed. The brain’s structure has actually changed.
Stigma of Substance Abuse Treatment
Substance abuse in Austin is a serious issue that can affect individuals, families, and communities. Treatment is available for those who suffer from substance use disorders. But it takes compassion and care to help the person get the appropriate help at the right time.
Substance Abuse treatment options typically include individual and group counseling, medication-assisted treatment, residential treatment, and aftercare services. Treatment plans are tailored to each individual’s needs and can consist of a variety of interventions and services.
1. Assessment and Evaluation
Assessment and evaluation are the first steps to determining the severity of an individual’s substance use disorder and determining the best course of action for treatment. The evaluation includes a physical examination to assess the current state of health and a mental health evaluation to identify any mental health issues and how they may impact substance use disorder. The aim is to determine the severity of the addiction and create an individualized treatment plan.
The assessment also includes the patient’s medical, psychological, behavioral, and social histories. This information gathered during the evaluation will allow mental health or medical professionals to know the best approaches for treatment and the resources that may be necessary.
2. Detoxification and Withdrawal Management
Detoxification, or “detox” as it is commonly known, is an important part of substance abuse treatment. Detox in Austin is a process that helps individuals safely manage withdrawal symptoms associated with alcohol or drug cessation. For example, alcohol use disorder may require a period of medically monitored alcohol cleanse to help limit withdrawal symptoms such as tremors, insomnia, and nausea. The goal of detox is to help individuals get through the withdrawal process safely.
Depending on the severity of the substance use disorder, detoxification can take anywhere from seven to twenty days. During the detox process, medications may be given to help manage the withdrawal symptoms and ensure the safety of the individual.
3. Therapy and Counseling
Therapy and counseling are essential components of substance abuse treatment. Individual and addiction group therapy can help individuals identify triggers for substance use, develop sober-living skills, and find ways to cope with addiction and its underlying issues. Treatment often includes Cognitive Behavioral Therapy for addiction (CBT), which focuses on thought patterns and behaviors associated with substance use, and Motivational Interviewing, which focuses on helping individuals set goals and develop new skills.
Other therapies are also included in treatment for substance use disorders in Austin. These include many holistic treatments, such as meditation, fitness programs, music therapy, and more. In addition, 12-Step programs are often incorporated into treatment, in which individuals can find a supportive community to help them remain sober.
Substance Abuse Treatment for Men in Austin, Texas
Call Heartwood Recovery drug rehab for men today if you or someone you know is struggling with substance use disorder in Austin, Texas. With a variety of personalized treatments, our team is dedicated to helping men achieve long-term recovery and reclaim their lives.
