Twitter Facebook Feed

Chemical Dependency Programs

The serious problems addressed by chemical dependency programs can make a major difference in the lives of individuals seeking to return to a healthy and drug free existence. Tens of millions of Americans deal with the difficulties related to substance abuse each year, making the need for skilled treatment facilities of utmost importance. The types of substances that may be the object of an addiction could include alcohol, cocaine, amphetamines, heroin, prescription medications, or a combination of substances. The issues of family members and loved ones may also need to be addressed by chemical dependency programs. For this reason, most facilities will offer counseling and support to those who care about the patient. Facilities of this nature may offer both inpatient and outpatient treatment plans. Once treatment has been completed, a plan for aftercare is very important. Counseling will usually be offered in a variety of ways including group and individual therapy. For the patient, gaining an understanding of their addiction and the biochemical factors involved. Educational opportunities are frequently included in professional treatment plans. Drug screening on a regular basis will also be necessary to make sure that the patient is maintaining their sobriety. In many cases, graduates of the facility's program may provide peer support to recovering addicts. The services of both medical physicians and psychological professionals will usually be called upon in the recovery process.

Some facilities that offer chemical dependency programs may center on the needs of adolescents. There can be a number of differences between the treatment approach that is necessary for adult recovery and and that of an adolescent treatment plan. The lack of maturity and understanding on the part of the younger addict can create obstacles that must be overcome. Treatment plans that are designed for younger addicts will need to include a great deal of educational opportunities designed to help the patient understand both the biochemical and psychological issues that are part of a serious addiction problem. Generally, chemical dependency programs that are designed for younger patients will have some very specific goals. Mood stabilization as well as dealing with related emotional and behavioral problems represent some very important goals of most programs. In order to reduce the risk of relapse, patients will also be taught various coping devices. Family therapy is extremely important when dealing with younger addicts. Educating the family while also providing counseling is very important. It is equally vital to help family members understand some of the dynamics behind the patient's choice to turn to substance abuse. Each family will have different problems and needs in this area and a trained counselor can help patients and loved ones to address these needs and find workable solutions.

Professionals who counsel patients at chemical dependency programs must complete a great deal of training and study. Since these problems can have both physical and psychological ramifications for addicts, a knowledge of both areas of medicine is required. Licensed substance abuse counselors must posses a master's degree, usually in behavioral science. Associate counselors will have completed a bachelors degree while licensed technicians will have earned associates degrees. Some of the coursework that students may take while obtaining training could include study on ethics, biology, family dynamics, recovery, and types of treatment plans. The first programs that were used to treat chemical dependency were the faith based twelve step plans promoted by Alcoholics Anonymous. The need for help with substance addictions has not always been well understood or accepted. Former first lady Betty Ford did much in the 1980's to help remove the shame and stigma from seeking treatment for this difficult problem. A progressive disease, those in need of professional chemical dependency programs can have a better chance of recovery if they seek treatment early on. Generally, the longer the problem has existed, the more difficult a full recovery can be. The Bible gives hope to those who are suffering and in need of help. "For the needy shall not always be forgotten: the expectation of the poor shall not perish for ever." (Psalm 9:18)

If inpatient care is indicated, chemical dependency programs can provide a complete separation from the outside world. This is particularly helpful if a period of detoxification is needed. The time spent in residence at a treatment facility can vary. Some stays may be as short as five to seven days while other plans may call for several weeks of residence. Outpatient treatment will generally offer private and group therapy on a regular basis. The patient may attend three of more sessions a week for a period of twelve or more week to complete a treatment plan. After this plan has been completed, some kind of aftercare is usually recommended. The possibility of relapse is very real. Continuing attention and therapy is necessary if the patient wishes to successfully leave a serious addiction behind.

In a crisis situation, facilities that provide chemical dependency programs can often help families through staged interventions. Specialists who are trained in helping an addict face the need for treatment can help loved ones confront the substance abuser in the hopes that this individual will submit to treatment. With the help of a trained interventionist, families and loved ones of addicts can learn strategies for getting through to an individual who is under the influence of a chemical dependency. For many patients, this intervention can mean the difference between ultimate recovery and lifelong addition. Families who reach out for help can reap the rewards of a loved one who is restored to a healthy and fulfilling life.

0 коммент.:

Отправить комментарий