If you’re struggling with any type of substance abuse, finding the right treatment can be an overwhelming and daunting task. There are a variety of treatment options available which will be detailed on this page.
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What is Substance Abuse?
Substance abuse is the pattern of using substances that causes problems in the individual’s life or affects their ability to function. Substance abuse can lead to legal issues, damage relationships with friends or family members, and cause physical and mental health issues.
Substance abuse can occur with illegal substances such as heroin, cocaine, or methamphetamine. It can also happen with legal substances such as alcohol, marijuana (legalization varies by state), prescription medication, or nicotine. Alcohol is typically the most common drug involved in substance abuse.
Warning Signs of Substance Abuse
Individuals with substance abuse will often try to hide their problems and downplay their symptoms so as not to concern their loved ones. If you are worried that you or your loved one are abusing substances, you should be aware of these warning signs.
When someone struggles with a drug or alcohol use problem, symptoms can vary based on the substance involved. While each person might have different signs depending on their use and substance of choice, the following are the most common signs that can indicate substance dependence:
Behavioral Signs of Substance Abuse
- Developing an increased tolerance to the drug or a need to take increasing amounts to feel the same effect
- Spending a lot of time getting drugs, using drugs, and recovering from drug use
- Pulling away from social activities or other hobbies
- Withdrawal symptoms if they decrease or stop use, and continuing to use the substance in order to avoid these symptoms
- Continuing to use the drug despite being aware of the problems it has caused to one’s physical health, mental health, and relationships
- Drinking or using more significant amounts of the drug than they had planned
- Experiencing cravings or a strong need to use alcohol or drugs
- Ongoing substance use that interferes with responsibilities at work, school, or home
- Engaging in risky behavior such as driving under the influence or unprotected sex
Physical Signs of Substance Abuse
- Sniffling or runny nose
- Sudden weight gain or loss
- Changes in appetite
- Sleeping drastically more or less than usual or sleeping at odd times of day
- Pupils appear larger or smaller than normal, or eyes appear bloodshot
- Lack of self-care or personal hygiene
- Abnormal odors on clothing, body, or breath
- Impaired coordination, slurred or choppy speech, or tremors
Psychological Signs of Substance Abuse
- Tired, lack motivation, or appear spacey
- Unusual increase in energy or nervousness
- Appear anxious, paranoid, or afraid and unable to provide a reason for feeling this way
- Drastic changes in demeanor or personality
- Irritable, angry, or frequent mood swings
The signs of substance abuse can be similar to mental health conditions or other medical problems, so it’s essential to consult a healthcare provider to receive a proper diagnosis.
Substance Abuse Risk Factors & Causes
While laws determine which substances are legal or illegal, many societal and cultural factors determine what is considered “acceptable” regarding alcohol or drug use. Many risk factors can influence if someone is likely to struggle with substance abuse. Substance abuse can be caused by multiple factors, such as the following:
- Genetic vulnerability – A family history of substance abuse increases the likelihood of that individual also developing a substance abuse problem.
- Personality – It is common for individuals who abuse drugs or alcohol to exhibit personality traits such as anxiousness, curiosity, sensitivity, and carelessness.
- Environmental stressors – Factors such as experiencing violence or abuse, low socioeconomic status, easy access to substances, and school-based stress can increase someone’s likelihood of substance abuse.
- Social pressure – There is a link between peer or social pressure and substance abuse. Peer pressure can encourage someone to engage in substance abuse or even lead to relapse if in recovery.
- Mental health conditions – Individuals with a mental health condition or diagnosis are more likely to develop a problem with substance abuse.
While many potential risk factors are at play in determining someone’s likelihood of developing a substance abuse problem, no single factor is the most significant influencer. Even if someone possesses one or more risk factors, there is always hope for recovery from substance abuse and the possibility of living a healthy life if they seek substance abuse treatment.
Substance Abuse Treatments
For many individuals who struggle with substance abuse, acknowledging their problem is the first step in starting the recovery process. Many substance abuse treatments and programs are available to those seeking help. These programs can guide individuals through the process of restoring their physical health, mental health, and damaged relationships.
Since substance abuse affects each individual differently, the path to substance abuse recovery looks different for each person. There are a wide array of treatment programs to accommodate each person’s individual needs and healing journey. There are so many substance abuse treatment centers and recovery options available, with these being the most common:
Detox program
A detox program can help individuals with severe substance abuse to safely withdraw from alcohol or drugs until they are no longer present in their system. Detox programs are commonly the first step taken in treating people recovering from severe or moderate substance abuse. In some instances, medication-assisted therapy while detoxing from certain drugs is required to ease the intensity of the withdrawal symptoms. A medically supervised detox makes the detox process safer and increases the individual’s odds of recovery.
Inpatient rehab
Inpatient rehab programs offer treatment programs structured to address all areas of someone’s substance abuse. While participating in inpatient rehab, patients will stay in a substance-free, secure facility and receive 24/7 therapeutic support and medical care. Inpatient rehabs are typically the best option for those battling severe substance abuse or suffering from a behavioral disorder alongside their substance use.
Outpatient rehab
Outpatient rehab programs offer many of the same types of treatments and therapy as inpatient rehabs. The key difference is patients do not stay within the facility but are allowed to continue living at home during their recovery process. Because outpatient rehabs allow the patients to continue interacting with the real world, these individuals are at greater risk for everyday triggers that challenge their sobriety. As a result, outpatient rehabs are typically better for someone with a mild form of substance abuse who is highly committed to recovery.
Therapy
Some individuals with more severe substance abuse will typically enter a detox program and transition into rehab. Those with mild to moderate substance abuse might decide to begin their recovery at an inpatient or outpatient facility. After initial treatment, the recommendation is to attend a support group and therapy sessions to continue the techniques learned in the rehab setting. Some may also combine their ongoing treatment at sober living homes.
How Do I Find Substance Abuse Treatment Near Me?
Finding an effective program for substance abuse treatments can feel overwhelming to do alone. There are various options available depending on the level of care the individual requires and which substances are involved.
If you or your loved one is ready to seek help with substance abuse, it’s crucial to find the treatment that’s going to be the best fit for your unique situation. Working with a healthcare professional to understand the various types of substance abuse treatment programs can help you or your loved one take the crucial first step in a long-term recovery journey.
Substance Abuse Treatment
Many options exist for substance abuse treatment therapy in Phoenix at Mental Health Center of America. Our therapists use evidence-based treatment options for substance abuse therapy to help you feel better and recover from substance abuse.
Treatment options offered include:
- Psychodynamic Therapy
- Cognitive Behavioral Therapy
- Relational Therapy
- EMDR
- Dialectical Behavioral Therapy
- Trauma-Focused Therapy
- Mindfulness-Based Interventions
Our therapists collaborate with each client to choose an approach to treatment based on your individual needs and goals and create a custom treatment plan with you. Substance abuse treatment options may incorporate individual therapy, medication, and neurofeedback.
Substance abuse treatment may also integrate self-care and wellness activities such as cold exposure, heat exposure, mindfulness, and physical activity. Individuals living with substance abuse who commit to attending a substance abuse treatment center and then continuing with ongoing therapy afterward are typically able to maintain recovery.
Find Counseling for Substance Abuse Treatment in Phoenix & Mesa, Arizona
Substance abuse can be life-threatening if you don’t seek out proper treatment. At Mental Health Center of America, we provide therapy for substance abuse treatment that will improve your quality of life and increase your ability to have a successful recovery. We are proud to be a top provider of Arizona mental health services and have counselors in Phoenix ready to help with substance abuse therapy today.
Substance abuse can have detrimental effects on your physical and mental health. If you struggle with substance abuse or maintaining sobriety, we encourage you to speak with a mental health professional. Schedule your appointment today to start your healing journey.
