Substance abuse is the dangerous use of psychoactive substances that can change a user's mood, personality and perceptions. Abused substances include alcohol, tobacco and illegal drugs. Substance abuse often leads to substance dependence and addiction. Once a person has reached the dependence stage, the negative effects become visible through his everyday interactions at work and school as well as with family. The fluctuating health condition of a person dependent on a substance is scary for loved ones and difficult to treat.
Medical Treatment
Medical treatment is the first step in substance abuse treatment. Because substance abuse is a condition that needs treatment, doctors first address it medically and socially. Medical treatment involves the presence of doctors or medical experts, medical instruments and proper medication. Detoxification is the first step in medical treatment. This is a process wherein the body will clear itself of harmful substances. This stage of treatment includes the withdrawal stage, when bad toxins release into the body. This stage is also the most difficult part for the patient. After detoxification, the patient should take additional medicines depending on the degree of addiction or dependence.
Psychosocial Treatment
Psychosocial refers to the individual's psychological development in connection with his social environment. This stage follows medical treatment. Substance abuse greatly affects the social arena of the individual, so psychosocial treatment is a requirement for him to go back slowly to his family, friends and co-workers. Psychosocial treatment of substance abuse involves inpatient hospitalization and outpatient treatment.
Inpatient or Residential Treatment
Inpatient or residential treatment can be long-term or short-term. This stage usually happens in a hospital or community setting. Long-term treatment naturally occurs within six to 12 months, while short-term treatment occurs for a maximum of six weeks only. The methods used by long-term treatment and short-term treatment also differ. Long-term treatment uses a longer program that includes the members of the community where the patient is rehabilitating. The short-term treatment uses a shorter program that is often called the 12-Step Approach. The 12-Step Approach is a treatment popularized Alcoholics Anonymous.
Outpatient Treatment
In contrast to inpatient treatment, outpatient treatment is also available to patients who do not have enough funds to enter residential treatments, or those who no longer need inpatient treatment. Patients who go through this stage have already completed the detoxification and residential treatment stages. Another reason patients may turn to outpatient treatment is that their medical insurance covers outpatient treatment only. However, common ground exists between inpatient and outpatient treatments. Both use the 12-Step Approach, and both involve one-on-one and group counseling. Outpatient treatment is usually conducted inside clinics or counselors' offices.
Tags: This stage, 12-Step Approach, outpatient treatment, short-term treatment, first step, inpatient treatment