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Is There Therapy for Addictions? Plus, Tips for Brooklyn Residents
Anyone who has experienced any of the substance use disorders knows that it can be incredibly difficult to stop using...
Williamsburg Therapy Group tailors its treatments to the individual, not the presenting issue as a concept. This requires more skill and expertise as a therapist, but is worth it for the healing process. This is particularly the case for those facing challenges with substance abuse. Substance abuse treatment cannot be effective unless it is designed and implemented in a way that is realistic, incorporates accountability, and is executed by extremely qualified personnel. At Williamsburg Therapy Group, that's exactly what you get.
Addiction is marked by a persistent, intense craving to engage in certain behaviors, such as using drugs or alcohol, having sex, playing video games, or any activity that triggers a strong emotional or neurochemical response.
Substance use disorders and addiction can gradually take control of your life without you even noticing. What may start as casual experimentation with drugs or alcohol can evolve into regular use, and for some, the need to rely on these substances just to feel "normal."
According to the American Society of Addiction Medicine, addiction is a chronic medical condition that stems from complex interactions between brain circuits, genetics, and life experiences. These complexities can make it challenging to overcome addiction without support.
Without treatment, addiction can damage self-esteem, relationships, mental health, and eventually, every area of life. Because each person's journey into addiction is different, their path to recovery will be unique as well.
Addiction can be treated by one or more of the following:
Williamsburg Therapy Group is proud to offer all of the above. Our dedicated team will work with you to find the right combination and types of treatment for you specific challenges.
Addressing addiction in part relies on addressing the underlying psychological reasons for the desire for substances, including genetic predisposition, depression, life circumstances and more. Our team can help you do just that.
While there is no single cause of addiction, the following factors have been shown to contribute to addiction and substance abuse:
The physiological cause of addiction is still being studied, but many indicators point to:
Ongoing studies are currently exploring more effective methods for targeting addiction at its biological source, but for now, there are very effective medication management treatments, as well as therapists in Brooklyn, NY, and beyond who specialize in treating addiction.
Many people struggle with addiction for a long time before realizing they need addiction treatment. This is because drug and alcohol addiction can often be difficult to spot, as the signs and symptoms can vary from person to person. However, there are some general signs that can indicate that someone is struggling with addiction.
Taking a drug after its no longer needed for a health problem
Needing more of a substance to achieve the same high
Not being able to stop yourself from using drugs even if you want to
Spending a lot of time thinking about the drug
Losing interest in things you once liked to do
Having trouble doing normal daily activities like cooking or completing your work
Increased frequency of alcohol use; increased quantity of alcohol per session
Drinking more to feel the same effect
Reduced sensation of a hangover
Shakiness or irritability when going longer spans without alcohol
Drinking at work, during church, or any other place where drinking is inappropriate
Avoiding seeing or speaking with loved ones
Choosing alcohol over activities that do not allow access to alcohol
Needing alcohol to function in day to day life
Fatigue, mood problems, and depression
Continuing to drink even when it is causing physical problems or mental health issues
If you or someone you know is struggling with addiction, it is important to seek professional addiction treatment immediately. Our team of psychiatrists and psychologists can provide compassionate support and individualized treatment tailored to your unique needs.
With addiction therapy in Brooklyn, NY, from Williamsburg Therapy Group, you can overcome substance use and regain control of your life. Contact us today to learn more about our substance abuse counseling programs and services and start your journey to lasting recovery.
There are several treatments available for a substance abuse disorder, including:
Therapy for addictive behaviors, such as group therapy, family therapy, CBT, or dialectical behavioral therapy
Rehabilitation
Outpatient services and mental health care
Addiction psychiatry to treat addiction withdrawal symptoms, such as depression and anxiety
Addiction counseling for those in the recovery process
Substance abuse disorder groups like Alcoholics Anonymous and Narcotics Anonymous
Beyond these addiction treatment approaches, many people may also benefit from alternative or holistic therapies, such as meditation, mindfulness training, exercise, and nutrition counseling. These approaches serve to improve the mental health of the patient, which is an extremely important part of controlling addiction.
Ultimately, the goal of substance abuse disorder treatment is to help the person regain control over their substance use, learn healthier coping strategies, and achieve long-term sobriety and wellness.
The four pillars of addiction recovery are health, home, community, and purpose. These are considered the four most important life changes that many addicts should make.
Health refers to physical and mental health issues. Improving overall health reduces the risk of a relapse.
Home refers to having a stable place to live and sleep away from substances and others with active addiction issues.
Community refers to maintaining friendships and family bonds in order to create a support network.
Purpose refers to creating a life that is inspired by a higher purpose or goal.
By focusing on building these four pillars through drug and alcohol counseling, addicts can improve their likelihood of maintaining sobriety in the long term.
Williamsburg Therapy Group started in Williamsburg, Brooklyn - but now we offer our unparalleled expertise in major cities across the U.S.
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