Substance Abuse and Dependence Early treatment is very important and has proven to return a higher rate of successful treatment. Take the free quiz and see if you might have an alcohol problem
Substance AbuseAbuse is the repeated use of something despite it's negative consequences. People are considered to be abusing a substance when they frequently use it, regardless of how it affects them physically after extended use. These incidents are sometimes called binges.
An example of substance abuse is not drinking alcohol socially or on weekends. Drinking alcohol to the point of passing out on regular basis is considered abuse. Even if a person doesn't pass out, if he/she is consuming enough alcohol to get highly inebriated on most drinking occasions, this could also be considered abuse. |
Chemical DependenceDependence results from chronic use of something that through repeated use has created a tolerance for the user. If the user abruptly stops, then withdrawal symptoms will appear, thus confirming the body's dependence to this substance.
For example, a person who has cocaine dependence will consume cocaine on a regular basis and not feel much of a high. But if the person stops using cocaine all together, then he/she can experience withdrawal symptoms. These symptoms can include an increase in blood pressure, tremors, cold and hot flashes, and even confusion. In some persons, more serious effects have included seizures and hallucinations. |
Treatment for Substance Abuse and Dependence
Substance abuse has been on the rise for many years. It seems as if every few years, a new designer drug comes out on the market that leads to abuse and dependence. The most commonly abused substances are alcohol and drugs such as marijuana, cocaine, heroin, and prescription drugs. For years, designer drugs known as "club drugs" taken to provide a euphoric affect, have been on the rise. Prescription medication such as Oxycontin, Hydrocodone, and Xanax are commonly abused as well.
Treatment for substance abuse and chemical dependency are very similar in nature. It involves the 12 step program, cognitive behavioral therapy, relapse prevention, individual and group therapy, as well as family intervention. The main difference in the treatment is that with chemical or substance dependence, medications are used to provide relief against withdrawal symptoms. In some cases, inpatient hospitalization is necessary to detox before individual therapy can begin. Detox is the process by which a person goes through to remove all effects and toxins in the body like drugs or alcohol.
The 12 step program was developed in 1935 by Bill Wilson and Dr. Bob Smith. Over the years it has been a very effective tool in helping thousands of individuals battle of the addiction of alcoholism and drug abuse. As is with any theory, module, or treatment plan, it has its doubters. The biggest deterrent to the 12 steps program is that it is used primarily in group settings. Although the 12 step program and group therapy has been quite effective, groups prevent some people from dwelling into the deep roots of their addiction.
Individual therapy is a very effective tool as it allows for treatment in a private setting where the therapist and patient engage in confidential dialogue regarding the addiction and negative influences. During our private therapeutic sessions, patients are guided through an individualized treatment plan created specifically to target not only the addiction, but also problematic areas in your life like anger and aggression, communication difficulties, family problems, employment issues, and other possible factors that can be problematic in your life.
Treatment for substance abuse and chemical dependency are very similar in nature. It involves the 12 step program, cognitive behavioral therapy, relapse prevention, individual and group therapy, as well as family intervention. The main difference in the treatment is that with chemical or substance dependence, medications are used to provide relief against withdrawal symptoms. In some cases, inpatient hospitalization is necessary to detox before individual therapy can begin. Detox is the process by which a person goes through to remove all effects and toxins in the body like drugs or alcohol.
The 12 step program was developed in 1935 by Bill Wilson and Dr. Bob Smith. Over the years it has been a very effective tool in helping thousands of individuals battle of the addiction of alcoholism and drug abuse. As is with any theory, module, or treatment plan, it has its doubters. The biggest deterrent to the 12 steps program is that it is used primarily in group settings. Although the 12 step program and group therapy has been quite effective, groups prevent some people from dwelling into the deep roots of their addiction.
Individual therapy is a very effective tool as it allows for treatment in a private setting where the therapist and patient engage in confidential dialogue regarding the addiction and negative influences. During our private therapeutic sessions, patients are guided through an individualized treatment plan created specifically to target not only the addiction, but also problematic areas in your life like anger and aggression, communication difficulties, family problems, employment issues, and other possible factors that can be problematic in your life.
What to expect from New Leaf...
At New Leaf, you will be treated with respect and admiration for your decision to combat the disease of addiction. The use of the 12 step program is heavily used but as well establishing a strong and effective relapse prevention plan, identifying a strong support system, and education.
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy has been proven to be an effective theoretical approach in the fight against alcoholism. At the root of CBT, empathy and motivation has been proven to have a higher positive reaction than confrontation. New Leaf will provide treatment for you through a combination of CBT, the 12 Step Program and also:
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy has been proven to be an effective theoretical approach in the fight against alcoholism. At the root of CBT, empathy and motivation has been proven to have a higher positive reaction than confrontation. New Leaf will provide treatment for you through a combination of CBT, the 12 Step Program and also:
- Individualization of Treatment: Alcohol and Drug abuse treatment is more effective on an individual basis. Your treatment plan will be created for you and only you based on your needs.
- Care Management: The treatment plan can and usually involves people that are a big part of your life. This can be relationship partners, family members, friends, and co-workers. Participation of others is based on your consent.
- Social & Life Skills Training: Alcoholism and Drug abuse has created many problems in your life and has highly affected your every day life. You will learn new skills to help you diffuse strenuous situations that can cause conflicts and temptations through out your life.
- Conflict & Anger resolution skills: You will learn how to resolve conflicts in a positive and proper manner.
- Positive Coping Skills: Coping skills help people get through difficult and unwanted situations. You will learn how to strengthen your resolve and will be monitored to ensure the coping skills being utilized in a proper manner.
- Medication: There is no magic pill that will take away cravings or treat the abuse. However, there are medications that have been effective in decreasing cravings and reliance to alcohol and drugs. New Leaf does not currently provide medication management, however, we are working on offering that service very soon.