Counselling for Drug Abuse: The Way to Recovery

What is substance abuse?

Substance abuse happens when a person develops a dependence or addiction to a substance to function in daily life; they cannot control their impulses and usually increase their use with time.

Substance use is a common phenomenon in the young adult population. Many people experience it firsthand due to peer pressure, social events, and injury medication.

“Substance abuse, however, happens when one employs a maladaptive coping mechanism using the substance. It can be seen as a spectrum where there is excessive use of products such as coffee and tea to substances like morphine and marijuana,” says Dr. Arun, Consultant Psychiatrist, Cadabams Group

Identifying Drug and Substance Addiction: Key Signs

Suppose you or a loved one has recently experimented with drugs. In that case, the following signs can help you identify if you may be developing a substance use disorder.

Let's say you drink caffeine regularly. You may be developing a caffeine addiction if you follow the following;  

1. Drink coffee, energy drinks, and carbonated drinks in more significant amounts or for longer than you're meant to. 
2. Want to cut down or stop drinking coffee but cannot.
3. Have cravings and urges to buy/make coffee or caffeinated drinks.
4. Not managing to do what you should at work, home, or school because you did not drink coffee or an energy drink that day.
5. Giving up important social, occupational, or recreational activities because of your use of caffeinated products.
6. Continuing to use, even when you know you have a physical or psychological problem that could have been caused or made worse by coffee.
7. You need more cups of coffee and/or cans of Redbull to get the active vigilance you want.
8. Development of withdrawal symptoms, where you feel anxious without drinking coffee.

Suppose you enjoy drinking coffee daily and say yes to most of the eight points mentioned here. In that case, this could be a sign of your chemical dependency on caffeinated products. Similarly, people who have alcoholism become chemically dependent on alcohol. Those who are battling drug addiction may then become ill if they suddenly stop drinking. People may also feel psychologically reliant on alcohol and continue to use it, particularly under stressful circumstances or to alleviate other psychological problems.

Treatment for Drug Addiction and Substance Abuse

For many people struggling with addiction, the most challenging step toward recovery is the very first one: recognizing that you have a problem and deciding to make a change. It's normal to feel uncertain about whether you're ready to start recovery or if you have what it takes to quit. Suppose you're addicted to a prescription drug. In that case, you may be concerned about how you're going to find an alternate way to treat a medical condition.

Recovery requires time, motivation, and support. Still, by committing to change, you can defeat your addiction and reacquire control of your life. In a situation where you identify yourself or a loved one battling addiction, you can find yourself having an overwhelming experience as you try to understand it. While the process is challenging and isolating, there is always help available to assist you through it. Substance abuse can be treated in many ways. Drug Addiction Help includes Detox, medication, and counselling are a few popular methods to do so.

Initial Steps in Recovery: Detoxification Process

The first step is to cleanse your body of drugs and manage withdrawal symptoms. Detoxification is a process by which you are helped to slowly wean off the substance. 

Medication-Assisted Treatment for Substance Abuse

Rehabilitation Centres or inpatient drug addiction treatment at hospitals are recommended for those who may experience difficulty achieving sobriety as an outpatient. Substance abuse and addiction take a toll on both the body and the mind.

Detoxification and Therapy prepare you to show resilience and alter your behaviour. In contrast, inpatient hospital treatment is administered to get your affected organs and channels within your body back on track.

Counselling for Drug Abuse and Substance Abuse

Therapists who practice addiction recovery often help people who are addicted set attainable short-term goals as they work to overcome their addiction. Once the person attains sobriety, adaptive skills are developed to regain their physical and emotional health. With the therapist's help, one can set long-term goals that may include repairing broken relationships, admitting responsibility for actions, and clearing guilt due to addiction.

With Therapy and counselling for substance abuse, a person who has a substance use disorder is often more likely to overcome an addiction. Several types of drug addiction treatment are helpful in this process. Behavioural Therapy is usually provided by a therapist to help people overcome their addiction. 

Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) for Drug Abuse Counselling

Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) is a highly effective form of treatment in addiction therapy, focusing on the interconnection between thoughts, feelings, and behaviours. Central to CBT is the concept that our thoughts and perceptions influence our actions and emotional responses. In the context of addiction, CBT helps individuals identify and challenge distorted or negative thinking patterns that lead to substance abuse. 

By developing healthier thought processes, individuals can change maladaptive behaviours that contribute to their addiction. This therapy equips them with coping strategies to deal with triggers and cravings, ultimately aiding in long-term recovery and relapse prevention. CBT's structured approach allows for measurable progress and adaptability to various types of addiction.

Group-Supported Therapy for Drug Abuse Counselling

Group-supported therapy is key in addiction recovery, providing a community where people share their journeys and support each other's sobriety. These groups vary in approach, some promoting total abstinence while others suggest moderated use. The strength of group therapy lies in creating a sense of belonging and mutual encouragement. Available both in-person and online, these sessions offer flexible and widespread support. They help lessen feelings of loneliness and boost motivation for recovery.

Online and In-Person Counselling Options

Online counselling for drug abuse offers flexibility and accessibility, making it a viable option for those who may face logistical or mobility challenges. It allows individuals to receive therapy from the comfort of their own homes, which can be particularly beneficial for those with time constraints or who live in remote areas. 

In contrast, in-person counselling provides a more traditional, face-to-face therapeutic experience, which can be crucial for building a stronger therapeutic alliance and may be more effective for those who benefit from a physical presence and direct interaction.

Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (DBT) for Drug Addiction Counselling

Dialectical Behaviour Therapy is a comprehensive cognitive-behavioural treatment that emphasizes the psychosocial aspects of drug addiction treatment. DBT focuses on enhancing clients' capabilities by teaching them behavioural skills. It is designed to promote abstinence from drugs and alcohol and to reduce the likelihood and severity of relapse. 

DBT also addresses the range of issues that can arise typically during treatment, especially those related to motivation and the client's capability to apply effective behavioural skills to control addictive behaviour.

Integrating Drug Abuse Counselling with Other Addiction Treatments

Effective treatment for drug addiction counselling and substance abuse often requires a multi-faceted approach. Integrating drug abuse counselling with other treatments, such as medical detoxification, medication-assisted treatment, and support groups, can enhance the effectiveness of the recovery process. 

This integrated approach ensures that all aspects of the individual’s addiction and any underlying mental health issues are addressed. Combining counselling with other treatments allows for a more holistic approach, addressing the physical, psychological, and social aspects of addiction.

What to Expect During Drug Abuse Counselling and Rehabilitation? 

Suppose you or your loved one have chosen to enter a drug addiction treatment program for addiction. In that case, you can expect to first check-in and complete an intake interview, which will allow the program to design a plan tailored to your particular needs. The next step involved in counselling for drug abuse is detoxification, which can last from a few days to two weeks; removing any substances from the body is required. After detox, the next step involves Therapy to help you adjust and form new thoughts and behaviour models to support long-term recovery. Drug and Alcohol Rehab centers help you immensely in sustaining the recovery you achieve.

During recovery and rehabilitation, intense emotions of guilt, judgment, and trauma come out. While the process may seem to isolate you from your social world, you must reach out for support. Whatever treatment approach you choose, having positive influences and a solid support system is imperative to prevent a relapse. Having the help of friends and family members is valuable in recovery. 

In the same way that you may be reluctant to ride it again after falling off the bike once, addiction and substance abuse can feel like an impairment that hinders your life. With the necessary help and treatment, drug abuse and addiction can be treated, reintroducing and rehabilitating people in remission to society without any baggage of their previous actions.  

How Cadabams Empowers Your Journey to Drug Addiction Recovery

At Cadabam's, we offer personalized drug addiction counselling and recovery programs, blending traditional and innovative therapies under expert guidance. Our dedicated team provides continuous support, ensuring a compassionate, holistic approach to rehabilitation. With our commitment to individualized care, we empower each person on their unique path to lasting recovery from addiction.

If you are searching for a solution to your problem, Cadabam’s Anunitha De-Addiction Centre can help you with its team of specialized experts. We have been helping thousands of people live healthier and happier lives for 30+ years. We leverage evidence-based approaches and holistic treatment methods to help individuals effectively manage drug addiction. Get in touch with us today. You can call us at +91 96111 94949. 

FAQs

What is drug and substance abuse counselling?

Drug and substance abuse counselling is a therapeutic approach that helps individuals overcome addiction through various psychological therapies and support systems.

How does Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) help in addiction treatment?

CBT helps individuals in addiction treatment by changing negative thought patterns and behaviours associated with substance abuse and teaching coping strategies to manage triggers and cravings.

Can group-supported therapy be effective for addiction recovery?

Yes, group-supported therapy provides a supportive community where individuals share experiences and encourage each other, which can be highly effective in addiction recovery.

What makes Cadabams’ approach to addiction treatment unique?

Cadabams’ approach is unique due to its personalized treatment plans, combining traditional and innovative therapies, and providing a compassionate, holistic recovery environment.

Is online counselling for substance abuse effective?

Online counselling can be effective, offering flexibility and accessibility, especially for those with logistical challenges or who prefer the comfort of their home for therapy.

Can drug addiction counselling prevent relapse?

While no treatment can guarantee prevention, drug addiction counselling significantly reduces the risk of relapse by equipping individuals with the skills and strategies needed for long-term sobriety.