Introduction

Addiction is something that affects many and for some, it can feel as though there is no way out. However, this need not be the case. Dr. Michael D. Mitchell at Mitchell Medicine P.C. offers solutions for those suffering from substance use, alcoholism, opioid addiction and more. Substance abuse can be overcome with the right medical treatment. If any of these issues affect you or one of your loved ones, read on to find out the available options.

What Is Substance Abuse and Substance Use Disorder?

If you or someone you know is showing signs of substance abuse issues or possible substance use disorder, there are treatments that can help. Early intervention means a greater chance of an easier and faster recovery for you or your loved one. To be clear, substance abuse counts as any time you or a loved one use a substance in a harmful way. Any kind of overuse of a substance, even if it is just once, is a warning sign and something to watch out for. Common symptoms of substance abuse include increased tolerance, loss of control and social impairment.

A substance use disorder can present in a variety of ways. Withdrawal symptoms when the substance is not available and loss of control in every aspect of life are indicators of a disorder of this nature. The options out there to treat substance abuse and substance use disorder include medical detoxification, cognitive behavioral therapy, counseling, and relapse prevention techniques. These therapies are explained in more detail below.

CBT (Cognitive Behavioural Therapy)

Cognitive Behavioural Therapy

Cognitive-behavioral therapy is a combined behavioral and talking therapy. The idea behind it is to address your thought patterns that affect how you behave and try to find ways to think and act differently within your everyday life. Your CBT therapist can provide you with coping mechanisms and explain new ways of thinking which you can use day today to get you back on to a positive way of thinking. You will be taught how to identify negative patterns of thought, manage these thoughts, control your emotions and replace negative thoughts and behaviors with some that are more useful to you. This can help address many of the mental issues that are associated with substance use disorders and allow you to reframe your thoughts and your behaviors.

Detoxification

For some substance use disorders, the most practical thing to do is to embark upon a detoxification process. This may seem daunting, however, under medical supervision, it is a safe process and can help you along the way to becoming free of your addiction. Detoxification is not something that anyone should try and attempt alone, as having a medical team to support you ensures that withdrawal symptoms can be managed and the process can be achieved as smoothly as possible.

Summary

If you or someone you love is struggling to cope with a possible substance use disorder, there are things that can help to overcome this difficult time. There are medical options out there that can help you cope with withdrawal symptoms, aid you in detoxification and talk you through better ways to cope with life’s challenges. These treatment providers are there to provide a no-judgment and hassle-free service to get you back to where you want to be in life.