|
Substance abuse is a complicated disease that necessitates multifaceted treatment. While addiction is physical and alters brain chemistry, it is also psychological. For this reason, all aspects of the disease need to be addressed. The following is an overview of what to look for in substance abuse treatment in St. Louis. Detox The first step in substance abuse treatment is successfully detoxing the patient. Detox can often be successfully accomplished in one’s own home with the care of family or friends. For opiate addiction, buprenorphine hydrochloride can be utilized to safely detox the patient without the extreme discomfort that normally occurs with opiate withdrawal. For any type of detox, the patient should be closely monitored and admitted for inpatient care if there are seizures, confusion, or difficulty breathing. Psychiatric Care A psychiatrist does a complete evaluation of the patient to determine if there are other mental health diagnoses in addition to the substance abuse diagnosis. If a patient is treated for substance abuse alone but has underlying depression or anxiety that is not being addressed, the patient is far less likely to have a successful recovery. Once the diagnoses are determined, the psychiatrist will develop a treatment plan, which may include medications to stave off cravings and to treat the mental health diagnosis. Adherence to pharmacotherapy is vital to prevent relapse. Psychological Care A psychotherapist addresses mental health concerns, such as anxiety, depression, insomnia, or trauma, along with dependence on drugs or alcohol. Substance use is often a coping mechanism. A therapist works with an addict to develop alternate coping strategies to encourage sobriety. Family therapy and group therapy are two other forms of psychological care used in an integrative approach to treatment to ensure the addict has the tools and support for a lasting recovery. Unfortunately, substance use disorders aren’t cured as quickly or ended as definitively as a cold that has run its course. It’s a disease that requires comprehensive treatment and ongoing support. An addict ready to enter into substance abuse treatment in St. Louis should look for programs that address not only detox, but the psychiatric and psychological aspects as well.
Related Articles -
substance, abuse, treatment, st, louis,
| 
