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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...
Each individual's journey into dependence on drugs and alcohol is unique, illustrating how even the strongest can fall into substance abuse. At Williamsburg Therapy Group, our addiction specialists customize treatment plans to meet each person's specific needs. If you're seeking addiction treatment in Chicago, IL, our center can be the first step on your path to recovery. We offer both therapy and medication management to help you tackle your addiction.
Addiction is defined by a strong, persistent urge to engage in certain behaviors, whether that involves using drugs or alcohol, engaging in sexual activity, playing video games, or any other activity that triggers a significant neurochemical or emotional response.
Substance abuse disorders can take control of your life without you even realizing it. What might begin as casual experimentation with drugs or alcohol can evolve into a dependency, where individuals find they need these substances just to feel normal.
According to the American Society of Addiction Medicine, substance use disorders and addiction are long-term medical conditions arising from complex interactions among brain circuits, genetics, and life experiences. This intricate interplay makes overcoming addiction challenging without support.
If left unaddressed, addiction can damage self-esteem, relationships, emotional health, and ultimately every facet of life. Since each person’s journey into substance dependence is unique, their path to recovery will also be distinctly individual.
Substance use disorders and addiction can be effectively treated with the right approach, which may include:
Our psychologists provide medical guidance and support to assist individuals struggling with substance use in finding medications that can facilitate their recovery journey.
With the right help, life can become manageable again. Through treatment, individuals often experience increased self-esteem, improved relationships, and an enhanced quality of life.
More than 21 million Americans have an addiction or dependency on at least one substance or activity.
Contact us or book an addiction treatment appointment today to find out more about our programs and services and to begin your journey to better health and well-being.
Detoxification, or "detox," is the crucial first step in treating severe addiction. During this process, individuals stop using the substances they are dependent on, which can lead to uncomfortable side effects like nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea. In some cases, detox may need to be conducted in a hospital under close medical supervision, especially if the individual struggles to complete it on their own. Alcohol addiction, often referred to as alcoholism, is a condition that can affect anyone, regardless of their background. It can be particularly challenging to identify, as alcohol is widely available and socially accepted in many cultures, often playing a central role in celebrations like birthdays and weddings.
Rehabilitation, often referred to as "rehab," is a more intensive phase of treatment that usually spans several weeks to months. This stage often involves residential care in a facility that specializes in addiction treatment, alongside therapy and support groups. The primary aim of rehab is to help individuals achieve and maintain sobriety by addressing the root causes of their substance use disorder. This includes tackling emotional and psychological triggers, environmental influences, and genetic factors. During this phase, clients typically engage in a combination of behavioral therapies and medications designed to manage cravings and withdrawal symptoms. Rehab also focuses on enhancing motivation to remain abstinent and addressing any co-occurring mental health issues that may contribute to or arise from the addiction.
In certain situations, medications may be utilized to help manage a substance use disorder and alleviate withdrawal symptoms. For instance, addiction psychiatrists may prescribe medications like Naltrexone to reduce the risk of relapse for alcohol, Disulfiram for alcohol and other substances, or Clonidine for opiates and alcohol. Typically, an addiction psychiatrist will consult with the patient and collaborate with addiction specialists, clinical social workers, and other professionals involved in the patient’s care to identify the most effective treatment approach.
There isn’t a universal treatment plan for drug abuse, as the causes and severity vary for each individual. However, many people dealing with addiction find that a blend of individual therapy and group therapy can be particularly effective in overcoming their substance use challenges. Depending on the severity of the substance use disorder and factors like mental health and social support, treatment may also include a variety of therapeutic approaches, such as psychotherapy, detoxification services, and peer support groups.
If you’re facing a substance use disorder, our addiction therapists in Chicago, IL, are here to help you overcome your challenges, enhance your mental health, and achieve lasting recovery.
Our psychologists take the time to understand each patient’s unique story and struggles, guiding them toward a positive path forward. We also support family members and friends who wish to assist their loved ones in their journey through addiction.
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