Drug Addiction
Where to find drug abuse counseling that works
Drug addiction can be difficult for many people to understand, but ignoring the problem, either in yourself or a loved one, can have serious and even life-threatening consequences.
Serious substance abuse problems, such as cocaine addiction and heroin addiction, affect a person's body as well as their mind. In the advanced stages of addiction, extreme weight loss and organ damage are common, as are paranoia, delusions, anxiety and other serious mental health issues.
How Does Drug Addiction Happen?
Not everyone who uses drugs will develop an addiction or substance abuse problem. Many people who use recreational drugs have no problems controlling their use, and many who are prescribed drugs show no signs of developing an addiction.
For others, the scenario is completely different – even short-term use of prescription or recreational drugs can create an intense need to continue to use, regardless of health, social pressures and personal willpower. Some factors that have been known to contribute to drug addiction include a family history of substance abuse, social pressures and, in the case of prescription drug addiction, self-medication of chronic physical pain. People who have been victimized by physical, emotional or sexual abuse also tend to turn to drug use at higher-than-normal rates.
Finding Drug Abuse Counseling
Treatment for drug addiction typically starts with a period of detoxification, during which the body is given time to eliminate all traces of drugs from its system. Symptoms of withdrawal will vary depending on the drug of abuse, but they typically include agitation and anxiety, extreme fatigue and/or insomnia, malaise, tremors and vomiting.
Since drug addiction is both physical and mental, the best drug abuse counseling methods are tailored to address both issues. Drug addiction treatment facilities are often best-equipped to provide help, as they offer medical supervision for the physical symptoms of detoxification as well as psychiatric counseling for the mental and emotional stages of withdrawal.
For those who don't enter an inpatient facility, peer counseling groups such as Narcotics Anonymous or Alcoholics Anonymous (who often open their groups to people with drug abuse problems as well) can provide ongoing support through meetings and sponsorship. Personal therapy is another option, as the emotional side effects of drug addiction often last longer than the physical.
Additionally, it's wise to consult a physician to discuss your withdrawal treatment as early as possible. He or she can help you prepare for what you will be going through and can even refer you to an addictions specialist if necessary.
Family Support
In tandem with these counseling options, family and friends are often the greatest sources of ongoing support. Being open and honest with the people around you can help you maintain the strength needed to battle a drug addiction and can help you live a full and healthy drug-free life.
