Developing an addiction to alcohol or drugs causes changes in the brain, resulting in cravings and continued abuse of alcohol and drugs. The changes that occur make it difficult to realize when someone needs help. Taking the time to learn how to get help with addiction can help individuals and their loved ones know when it is time to start recovery treatment.
Recognizing the Signs of Addiction
Recognizing the signs of addiction can be difficult for the person addicted to alcohol or drugs. They may believe they do not have a problem or can manage their alcohol or drug use. However, there are telltale signs that indicate the person needs help, such as:
- Inability to stop drinking after starting
- Increasing the amount drank or the dosage of drugs taken to achieve the desired effects
- Intensive cravings for alcohol or drugs
- Relationship problems stemming from alcohol or drug use
- Financial difficulties
- Legal problems
- Loss of interest in hobbies and activities once enjoyed
- Withdrawal and distancing oneself from family and friends
- Associating with other people who drink or use drugs regularly
- Looking forward to drinking or using drugs
- Experiencing withdrawal symptoms when alcohol or drugs wear off
Reaching Out for Support
The most difficult step a person faces when they are addicted to alcohol or drugs is reaching out for support. How to get help with drug addiction or alcohol addiction starts by admitting the individual has a problem and a desire to change. It is normal for people to experience uncertainty about the future and feel scared of the unknown. However, once someone reaches out for support, they often feel a huge relief when they admit they want help to overcome their addiction.
Exploring Treatment Options
There are various treatment options available depending on the severity of the addiction and the type of help required. When exploring how to get help with addiction, it is vital to ensure the rehab facility offers comprehensive and personalized treatment plans.
Detox
Detox is the first and most important step to recovery from substance use. It is crucial to be medically supervised during the detox process. People will experience unpleasant withdrawal symptoms. With medical supervision, the proper support can be provided along with medication-assisted treatment. These help make managing withdrawal symptoms more tolerable for a successful detox.
Residential Treatment
Residential treatment is for individuals who require round-the-clock monitoring and supervision. People in residential programs usually have severe addictions. They may also lack a supportive home environment.
Partial Hospitalisation Program (PHP)
A PHP provides the same intensive and structured treatment found in a residential treatment program. The primary difference is that in the evenings, people are allowed to return home or to a sober living facility. This program is well-suited for those who have a supportive home environment and can manage withdrawal symptoms without overnight supervision.
Intensive Outpatient Program (IOP)
An IOP still provides intensive and structured treatment, but sessions are usually half-days instead of full-days. This level of care is often used as a step-down from a residential or PHP program. People with mild to moderate addiction may also be well-suited for an IOP.
Building a Support Network
Part of the recovery process is building a support network. It is important to have ongoing support when facing trigger situations, cravings, or other issues that could result in relapse. During rehab, group counselling sessions provide the opportunity to connect with others facing similar challenges.
Many people connect with peers and develop new friendships that continue post-treatment. Another beneficial option for how to get help with drug addiction or alcohol addiction is attending peer support sessions. These sessions can be available during rehab. Post-rehab, the treatment facility should provide referrals to peer support groups found in the person’s community.
Aftercare and Ongoing Support
How to get help with addiction does not stop after detox and completing a rehab program. Recovery requires aftercare and ongoing support to ensure people can maintain their newly-found sobriety.
One option is to transition to an outpatient program. This level of care offers individual and group counselling sessions based on the individual’s needs. Sessions can be weekly, bi-weekly, or as frequent as needed to ensure ongoing support. Outpatient programs also help people to continue developing and refining their coping skills and relapse prevention plans.
Another option is aftercare support. This level of care includes taking advantage of community resources, conducting periodic individual counselling, and attending support group meetings. Some people in aftercare also continue individual therapy as needed.
Additionally, some treatment facilities offer alumni programs. These programs feature activities, events, and social gatherings for people who have completed rehab. They allow individuals to maintain peer support connections formed in rehab, as well as develop new friendships with other alumni.
How to Get Help with Addiction: The First Steps
How to get help with addiction begins with finding the best treatment facility with the care and support you need. At Best Rehabs Canada, we have assisted numerous people find the care and treatment they need. We also provide free education and resources. If you are concerned you have an alcohol or drug problem or are unsure of where to begin, we are here to guide you.
Contact us today to get help taking the first steps to overcome addiction.