By Danielle Galloway


There seems to be a growing number of individuals who suffer from drug or alcohol addiction. Many of these people are at a point where they see no hope of getting better and often need help in order to break out of a downward spiral. They can find this help to manage their addiction by turning to a chemical dependency center.

Addictions affect many different areas of the individual's life. The physical health may suffer as does the mental health. In addition, addicts suffer at the psychosocial level. To manage the addiction each of the areas must be addressed. For some individuals, outpatient treatment may be appropriate, while others will nee the greater security of a residential program.

Treatment often begins with detox. This ensures the individual is sober or clean and able mentally to deal with the underlying causes of his addiction. Facilities may offer their own detox program of work closely with a local hospital or other facility for this part of the process. Dextox is often the most difficult and most uncomfortable part of becoming sober. However, with help from this type of program, patients remain safe physically as they withdraw from the drug.

After completing detox, the patient begins the actual treatment for his or her addiction. During treatment, the patient may undergo a twelve step program or be involved in cognitive behavioral therapy. Treatment often includes both individual as well as group counseling. These therapies dig deep to discover the cause of one's initial drug use and addiction.

Residential treatment usually takes about 28 days. It offers the advantage of allowing patients to live in a drug free environment 24/7. Most facilities have an open door policy, allowing the patient to choose to leave treatment anytime he or she so chooses. However, patients should realize that leaving the program can have consequences, especially if there due to a court order.

For some individuals, outpatient treatment is a better option. These programs usually take up to six months to complete. The individual must submit to regular drug testing to ensure adherence with the program. In such programs, a dirty UA may result in the individual being removed from the program or asked to move to a residential program.

The transition to the real world from the facility can be frightening to patients. They move from the protection of supervision to living in the real world where temptation may be extreme. Once they complete the initial program, most patients will enter aftercare. This program can include weekly counseling sessions or enrollment in a twelve step program. This transition point is where many addicts fail. For some, it will take more than just one attempt to become sober. Aftercare can help to ensure one's sobriety after completing a program.

Earning your sobriety from drugs or alcohol may not be easy, but you are worth the effort. There are many others who have gone before you through these programs, gaining back their self respect. With help from a chemical dependency center one can overcome his or her substance abuse.




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