Alcohol Addiction Treatment

A recent study indicated that there are more than 14 million Americans suffering from alcohol use disorder. Treatment for alcohol addiction is determined by current alcohol use, co-occurring disorders, and current health condition, mental and physical. The most effective treatments are medical detox, followed by residential inpatient treatment for alcoholism. Partial Hospitalization Programs and Intensive Outpatient Programs are options depending on patient’s needs. Behavioral therapies and alcohol addiction support groups are an important part of long term recovery.

Substance Abuse Disorder Treatment

Detoxification is the first step in the treatment of substance-related disorders is to remove the toxins from an individual’s body through the process of chemical detoxification. Behavioral therapies and Cognitive therapies have been two recent developments that have been shown to be effective in treatment of addiction and co-occurring mental illnesses. Modalities such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) and Mindfulness-based Cognitive Therapy (MBCT) can be effective on treating addictive behaviors. Preventing relapses is the biggest challenge for addictive patients after graduating out of a treatment program. Being part of a supportive community, learning coping skills, and attending programs such as the 12-step recovery program are a few ways to stay the course.

Dual Diagnosis Treatment

Dual diagnosis is a term used to describe people who suffer from both mental illness and substance use disorder (SUD). In the United States, it’s estimated that 25% of people who have mental illnesses also have substance use disorders—and vice versa. In other words, more than 1 in 4 Americans with mental illness also struggle with addiction at some point in their lives.

People who suffer from dual diagnoses often struggle with depression, anxiety disorders, or bipolar disorder. They may also experience post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), eating disorders, or other mood disorders like schizophrenia or bipolar disorder. Treatment options should include medical assisted treatment by specialists in substance abuse and mental health treatment. Psychotherapy is an important part of treatment for dual diagnosis patients. Individual therapy, group therapy, family therapy may be recommended based on patient’s needs.