Rehab Articles
substance abuse, addiction treatment
When many people think of addiction treatment they think of substance abuse, but not all addictions involve alcohol or drugs. Knowing when to seek treatment is important in order to get help that is needed, and assuming that addiction only occurs with substance abuse is a big mistake. There are people who are addicted to sex, gambling, porn, the Internet, and even shopping or eating. All of these problems are caused by emotional wounds or a void in the life of the addict that the individual is trying to fill. Understanding when addiction treatment is needed is very important, and if you do not know when to ask for help then you will never recover and overcome the addiction that is affecting your life.
Addiction treatment is needed any time you develop an addiction. If something interferes with a normal life and it has a devastating effect on you and those that you care about but you continue the same behavior and activity then addiction treatment should be sought. This is true whether the problem is substance abuse or if you find that you are losing monthly bill money by gambling yet you can not seem to stop and continue to give in to the compulsion in spite of the consequences. There are many different types of addiction, and some involve substance abuse while others do not. Any of these can have a devastating impact and destroy your life, and without treatment a full recovery is not possible. There is help available, and effective addiction treatment programs that work.
Rehab Articles
ADHD medications, substance abuse
Today physicians are learning more about preventing substance abuse with ADHD medications, and this training is sorely needed. Guidelines have been issued by the American Academy of Pediatrics to ensure proper care for children who are given these medications in order to prevent substance abuse. Children who have ADHD have a higher risk for substance abuse according to a recent paper which was published in the Pediatrics Journal. The guidelines released on ADHD medications in children includes practical advice to physicians about the potential for abuse with ADHD medications and signs to watch for that would indicate substance abuse of any type. It is becoming more common for children and teens who are prescribed stimulants to have the opportunity to buy, sell, trade, and misuse these medicines in a number of ways.
Authors of the recent report on ADHD medications and substance abuse with these drugs stated “Prescribers are cautioned that many school-aged children with ADHD- up to 23% – are approached to sell, buy or trade their medication. Stimulant medications have the potential for misuse, diversion and addiction. Treatment of ADHD symptoms with stimulant medication may reduce the risk of developing substance use disorders. ” The report goes on to caution that every provider follow safe stimulant prescribing practices to ensure that the ADHD medications are used as intended and do not provide the opportunity for substance abuse. In addition a physician should confirm any ADHD diagnosis before prescribing ADHD medications which have a stimulant effect. There are many other disorders which can also cause symptoms of this condition.
Rehab Articles
substance abuse, drug addiction, alcohol abuse
1. Worry- Substance abuse can have a profound effect on your family members and friends. These individuals may worry constantly because of your drug addiction or alcohol abuse, concerned that your drug addiction will harm you or someone else. When you are away from loved ones they may worry that you can not control your substance abuse.
2. Helpless- Family members often feel helpless over your substance abuse, and they may feel like there is nothing that they can do. This is true to a point, but feeling helpless can be eliminated by arranging for an intervention and then a stay in a drug addiction or alcohol abuse treatment center.
3. Frustration- Frustration is common among family members who are dealing with substance abuse by a loved one. The family member may feel frustrated because they try to help but the user continues their destructive habits. As a family member you may feel like giving up but you can get through if you are persistent.
4. Fear- In many cases of drug addiction and alcohol abuse the loved ones feel fear because of the risks and medical consequences of substance abuse. Your family may be concerned that you will overdose and die, or that constant drinking may destroy your liver and health.
5. Anger- Anger is another emotion that substance abuse by a family member can cause. It is often a first reaction to be mad at the user or view this problem as one of not enough willpower, but this is not the case.
Rehab Articles
medical treatment model for drug and alcohol abuse, substance abuse
The medical treatment model for drug and alcohol abuse has some pros and cons both, and this model is followed by some substance abuse professionals but not others. There is concern that this model does not stress any personal responsibility though, and that individuals may view their substance abuse as a disease that they have no control over. There is some evidence that addiction causes physical changes in the body, and there are some medical treatments which may help the user overcome the physical cravings. The invisible wounds in the psyche and the spirit also need to be addressed for a permanent recovery that is complete, and this requires individual counseling and intensive therapy. The most effective approach for substance abuse and addiction is to combine medical and spiritual methods to treat the whole person.
The biggest drawback to the medical treatment model for drug and alcohol abuse is the lack of accountability and responsibility. Substance abuse is a medical problem, but the treatment requires more than just medications and physical therapies. When substance abuse occurs along with mental illness then the treatment difficulties can become even more complex. The most effective solution for substance abuse is to address all of the contributing factors, including physical, mental, and spiritual issues that lead to substance abuse. Statistics show that Christian rehabs may offer a better chance at a permanent recovery, but only if the program chosen offers individual counseling several times a week. Without this method a full recovery can not be reached even if the medical treatment model for drug and alcohol abuse is followed perfectly.
Rehab Articles
Addictive behavior is displayed by many people, and it is important to understand what this behavior is and why it occurs. Individuals who are addicted to any substance or activity will exhibit addictive behavior and this is an indication that treatment for substance abuse or addiction is needed. This type of behavior is very compulsive and it is caused when the substance abuse or compulsions cause the individual to lose control of their daily life and responsibilities. The negative consequences of the substance abuse or addiction are not enough to cause the individual to stop, even when they see their life falling apart and their relationships suffering from irreparable damage. Often individuals with addictive behavior tend to suffer from low self esteem, and some have a mental disorder that also needs to be addressed and treated.
If you or someone you care about displays any signs of addictive behavior then an intervention may be necessary in order to get the help that is badly needed. If left untreated then addictive behavior can start a downward spiral that is highly destructive. The specific cause of the addictive behavior needs to be identified before it can be addressed during treatment, and a dual diagnosis may be given if there is more than one issue requiring treatment. This may be the case for anyone who has substance abuse and mental disorder problems, or those who have an alcohol addiction and a gambling compulsion. The treatment provided must be closely matched to the reason for the addictive behavior or else the best possible results may not be achieved.
