Have you been questioning your relationship with drugs or alcohol and are worried that you have a problem?
Has the idea of getting treatment for your drug or alcohol use crossed your mind?
Have you found yourself googling words like “substance abuse,” “addiction treatment,” or “rehab centers in California”?
For millions of Americans, this is a frequent concern and you are by no means alone.
Do both you and your partner want to get through addiction together? There are also options for couples rehab.
Key Takeaways
- Substance use disorder is a disease that affects millions of Americans every year and can include everything from alcohol to illegal street drugs and prescription medications.</b >
- Making the decision to get treatment for an addiction is a big step and one that is usually not made easily or lightly.</b >
- Once a person has decided to seek treatment for their substance use disorder, determining their best course of action can be challenging without the proper guidance and information.</b >
If you have found yourself in a place in your life where you need help with your substance abuse issues but aren’t sure what’s next, this can be a very daunting and scary experience.
Admitting that you have a problem is a huge step and one that you should be incredibly proud of yourself for taking.
But deciding what to do next is a step you can’t make on your own.
Let’s do a deeper dive into deciding the severity of your substance abuse problem and then determine what course of action is going to be best for your recovery and long term success.
If you are ready to change your life for good, you’ve come to the right place. It’s time to answer those questions that are burning in your head…once and for all.
What Defines Substance Abuse?
Substance abuse refers to the harmful or hazardous use of psychoactive substances like alcohol and drugs, which can lead to a wide range of physical, emotional, and social problems.
Alcohol and/or drug abuse is often characterized by a pattern of compulsive and uncontrollable drug or alcohol use, despite the negative consequences that these substances are having on a person’s life, from their physical to their personal to their professional.
Depending on the type of substance use disorder, different drugs and alcohol can cause a wide range of physical, mental, and emotional problems, such as liver damage, heart disease, lung disease, depression, anxiety, and cognitive impairment.
Having a substance use disorder can also lead to social problems for an individual and their affected family, such as financial difficulties, legal troubles, and issues within their various relationships.
Substance abuse can occur with any type of drug, including prescription medications, illegal drugs, and alcohol. Whether a substance is socially acceptable or not, it can still lead a person down a path of addiction and destruction.
Drug and alcohol abuse is a serious and potentially life-threatening condition that requires seeking treatment and finding the appropriate substance abuse treatment program in order to overcome and repair a person’s life.
10 Signs You Have an Alcohol or Drug Addiction
Drug and alcohol addiction is a serious problem that affects millions of people worldwide.
That said, many forms of drugs – particularly prescription drugs – and most forms of alcohol are widely accepted in our society.
Knowing if your relationship with alcohol or a certain drug is problematic or not can be challenging for many of us.
It is even more complex when you have grown up in a home where drugs or alcohol use was common or if you live with a partner or in a community where drinking or drug use is prevalent and considered “normal.”
Even more confusing is the fact that most addictions develop gradually over time.
Sadly, a person who has a substance use disorder will often not realize it until they have had substantial negative events happen in their life that have caused them to be forced to address the situation.
Fortunately, there are identifying factors that can help you determine if you have a substance use disorder.
- You have difficulty controlling your substance use: If you find it difficult to control the amount of drugs or alcohol you consume, it may indicate that you have a problem.
People who say, “I can stop when I want to” will often find that this statement is becoming progressively untrue. If you find yourself drinking and/or using drugs even when a situation doesn’t call for it, you may very well have a substance use disorder.
- You experience withdrawal symptoms: Withdrawal symptoms such as nausea, tremors, and irritability can occur when you stop using drugs or alcohol or haven’t used them in a certain period of time.
Again, just like with struggling to control how much you use or drink, people who begin to experience more frequent or more severe withdrawal symptoms will often find themselves consuming more of their drink or drug of choice on a more regular basis.
If you experience these symptoms, it may indicate that you are physically dependent on the substance.
- You prioritize substance use over other activities: Does alcohol or a certain drug almost always have to be involved in an activity? Do you find yourself avoiding social or professional events where alcohol won’t be served?
If you prioritize using drugs or alcohol over work, school, or social activities, it may indicate that you have an addiction. Likewise, if you find yourself trying to plan all your work, school or social events around alcohol, this is a red flag as well that your usage may be an actual substance use disorder.
- You have developed a tolerance: Tolerance occurs when you need to consume larger amounts of the substance to achieve the desired effect. If you have developed a tolerance, it may indicate that you have been using the substance for an extended period of time to the point that your body has become accustomed to the amount you consume.
- You continue to use despite negative consequences: If you continue to use drugs or alcohol despite experiencing negative consequences, it’s time you take a closer look at your relationship with drugs and/or alcohol.
Negative consequences can be any number of things. From finding yourself in legal or financial trouble to beginning to experience relationship problems or health issues, it begins to be a clear sign that you may be addicted to the substance you use.
- You experience intense cravings: What feeling comes over you if you find yourself in a situation where drugs and/or alcohol are not available? Is it common for you to go to extensive measures to make sure your drug or drink of choice is accessible at all times?
If you experience intense cravings for drugs or alcohol, or you find yourself doing inappropriate or excessive things to get access to them, it may indicate that you have an addiction.
- You have a history of substance abuse: Studies have shown that the chances of having a substance abuse disorder increases significantly if there is a history of addiction in your immediate family. In fact, children of people with a substance use disorder are four times more likely to develop abusive patterns than those who grow up in a home where alcohol or drug use is moderated.
In addition to that, if you personally have had a past history of substance abuse and have not been able to successfully treat it, your chances of eventual recovery are attainable, but will be more challenging.
- You have difficulty meeting obligations: If you have difficulty meeting obligations such as work or family responsibilities due to your substance use, it may indicate that you have an addiction.
- You often withdraw from social activities: Do you find yourself making excuses or bowing out of social activities that you previously enjoyed? Do you often feel unwell or incapable of enjoying the activities that used to make you feel productive and fulfilled?
If you are avoiding once-enjoyable activities due to your substance use, it may indicate that you have an addiction.
- You use substances to cope with emotional issues: People who struggle with past trauma, anxiety and/or depression are much more likely to turn to drugs and/or alcohol to cope with their unresolved issues.
If you use drugs or alcohol to self-medicate through your mental health conditions, it may indicate that you have an addiction.
If you have identified one or more of these signs in yourself, it is essential to seek help immediately. Addiction is a treatable disease, and with the right support, you can overcome it and live a fulfilling life in recovery.
The 5 Best Alcohol and Drug Treatment Options
As we now know, drug and alcohol addiction can take a toll on every aspect of your life.
From the important relationships that matter to you to your career and eventually your health, living with an addiction is going to result in harm.
But sadly, being able to find your own path out of this horrible situation is often near to impossible without some sort of professional involvement.
Luckily, there are now more options for addiction treatment than ever before, and choosing the right addiction treatment option can make all the difference.
But with so many addiction treatment plans available, it can be overwhelming for someone to know which route to take, particularly when they are at a crisis point in their life.
Here is a brief introduction to some of the most common and successful treatment programs that you should first consider when deciding what sort of treatment plan is going to work best for you and your lifestyle:
Inpatient Addiction Treatment Centers: Inpatient treatment centers provide a highly structured environment in which patients receive intensive therapy and support.
These types of programs are most likely going to be set up as a residential treatment facility where patients will reside at the center for the duration of their treatment.
Many addiction treatment centers provide various residential treatment timelines, which can range from a few weeks to several months, depending on the severity of your addiction, whether or not you are participating in dual diagnosis treatment and what the medical staff and mental health services administration at the facility think is going to work best for you.
Inpatient treatment is often recommended for individuals with severe addiction who require a high level of care and support.
Outpatient Addiction Treatment Centers – Outpatient treatment is an option for individuals who require a flexible treatment schedule and who may have an addiction that can be managed with less hands-on participation from a medical staff or mental health providers.
Outpatient treatment programs may vary in intensity and duration, and can be a good option for individuals who have completed inpatient treatment already, who don’t present with a dual diagnosis treatment need, or who have a mild addiction.
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) – CBT is a type of therapy that focuses on changing negative thought patterns and behaviors.
CBT is often used in addiction treatment to help patients identify and overcome the root causes of their addiction.
Medication-Assisted Treatment (MAT) – MAT is a treatment approach that combines medication and therapy to treat addiction. Medications such as methadone, buprenorphine, and naltrexone are often used to help manage withdrawal symptoms and cravings.
12-Step Programs – 12-step programs, such as Alcoholics Anonymous (AA) and Narcotics Anonymous (NA), are support groups that follow a structured program of recovery. Members attend meetings and work through the 12 steps with the support of other members who have also struggled with addiction.
This is just a brief overview of some of the most common and current methods that medical and mental health providers are using to help people who are struggling with a substance use disorder. Which program is going to work best for you will have a lot to do with your commitment, your home and job obligations, and your desire to seek treatment and find sobriety once and for all.
What Should I Look for in an Inpatient Addiction Treatment Center
If you’ve decided that you think an inpatient treatment program is going to be the right choice for you, then the next step is to find the right one.
Let’s look at some of the most important factors you’ll need to consider when evaluating inpatient addiction treatment providers:
Accreditation – Look for a facility that is accredited by a recognized organization, such as the Joint Commission or the Commission on Accreditation of Rehabilitation Facilities (CARF). This ensures that the treatment center meets high standards of care and has undergone rigorous evaluations.
Treatment options – A good inpatient drug and alcohol treatment center should offer a range of evidence-based treatment options, including individual therapy, group therapy, medication-assisted treatment (MAT), and holistic therapies.
Staff qualifications – Make sure the treatment center has qualified and experienced staff, including licensed therapists, medical professionals, and addiction specialists.
Success rates – While success rates can vary depending on many factors, it’s important to choose a treatment center that has a proven track record of helping people achieve long-term recovery.
Aftercare programs – Recovery is an ongoing process, and a good inpatient drug and alcohol treatment center should offer comprehensive aftercare programs to support clients in their transition back to everyday life.
Family involvement – Addiction affects not only the individual but also their loved ones. Look for a treatment center that offers family therapy and support to help heal relationships and build a strong support system.
Location – Consider the location of the treatment center and whether it’s convenient and accessible for you or your loved one.
Cost – Treatment can be expensive, so it’s important to find a facility that is within your budget or that accepts your insurance.
Amenities – While not the most important factor, amenities can contribute to a more comfortable and enjoyable treatment experience. Look for a facility that offers comfortable accommodations, healthy meals, and recreational activities.
Personalized treatment plans – Every individual’s journey to recovery is unique, and a good inpatient drug and alcohol treatment center should create personalized treatment plans tailored to each client’s specific needs and goals.
The House of the Rising Son: The Place to Begin Again
The decision to enter a drug and alcohol rehab program can be a difficult one, but being armed with the knowledge and facts to help you choose the right facility can make all the difference in your recovery journey.
From the luxurious accommodations to the highly qualified and compassionate staff, The House of the Rising Son is committed to providing the highest quality of care to patients and helping them take the first big step towards a life that is free from substance abuse.
If you want to learn more about the programs offered here, reach out to us today.
What are you waiting for? Your new chapter is waiting to begin!
