Addiction is a multidimensional problem that requires a multifaceted approach. Many individuals think abstinence from drugs and detox are a sufficient cure for drug abuse. However, you must realize this is just the start of the long journey to recovery. Treating drug abuse is an intensive process that requires discipline, and various therapies to ensure the condition won’t recur.
Addiction emanates from many issues such as grief, abuse, trauma, and mental disorders. This article will highlight why therapy is essential in treating addiction.
Assists in Addressing Cravings & Withdrawal Symptoms
A therapy such as detox assists recovering drug addicts to remain safe and comfortable during the treatment period. Detox is critical in dealing with cravings and limiting withdrawal symptoms. Depending on the severity of the addiction, detox can extend from one to three weeks. During the recovery process, the victim may develop cravings that may make them relapse. However, counselling may take months to years to recover entirely from the mental effects of drug abuse.
Addressing Co-Occurring Disorders
Addressing Co-Occurring DisordersDrug abuse therapies, such as dialectical behaviour therapy (DBT), assist in addressing co-occurring disorders. DBT focus on emotional regulation and mindfulness. Via discipline and structure, DBT enhances self-esteem, decrease impulsivity, and address stress management. The overall goal is to deal with the root causes of the addiction that are linked to co-occurring disorders.
Dealing with Negative Thoughts
Drug addiction is a mental problem; most drugs addicts have strong negative thoughts and feelings that drive them into the behaviour. A therapy such as cognitive-behavioural therapy (CBT) will assist in addressing these thoughts and damaging behaviours. This therapy will assist the addict in adopting positive cognitive changes that will lead to healthy behaviours. CBT will help the addict to deal with emotional distress.
Helps the Family to Heal
Drug addiction affects the entire family and not just the victim. Family therapy is essential to assist the family members in healing their loved ones on the journey to full recovery. Additionally, the family counselling sessions will help to reunite the family.
Some family members lay the entire blame on the victim and may not be ready to assist them in regaining their normal life. A drug abuse counsellor will talk to both parties to mend and differences that may have arisen due to the addition. It’s essential to know that the addicts spend most of the time with the family thus they should be part of his recovery support system.
Coping with Trauma
Most drugs addicts have a history of sexual or physical abuse. They may have been victims or witnessed others suffering these traumas. Therapy can assist drug addicts in dealing with past traumas by providing the right environment that will enable the victim to share their past hurting experiences.
The counsellor will offer a listening ear to the victim and assist them in healing from wounds from their past relationships, job, or family. Studies have indicated that nearly half of adults who abuse drugs have experienced some form of trauma in their childhood. Thus unresolved traumas are a significant cause of substance abuse.
