Professional Help for Drug Addiction | Expert Psychiatrist

In India, drug addiction affects millions—including 1.58 crore children aged 10–17. Alcohol, cannabis, and opioids are the most widely used substances, with 5.7 crore people dependent on alcohol alone. Psychiatrists play a key role in recovery by offering diagnosis, treatment, and long-term support. This guide explains how they help and how to choose the right one.

What Does a Drug Addiction Psychiatrist Do? 

The Narcotics Control Bureau in India estimated out of 64 million people struggling with drug use disorders, only 1 in 11 receive the necessary treatment. 

Drug addiction psychiatrists specialise in the diagnosis and treatment of substance use disorders. These professionals can treat any aspect of addiction, whether physical or psychological, offering a complete recovery process. 

Understanding Their Role in Recovery 

In comparison, it has been estimated that among all existing alcohol users, almost 26% are reportedly dependent. Similarly, the prevalence of cannabis dependence stands at approximately 25%, and opiate users are 22%. A drug addiction psychiatrist is an essential resource for people with substance use disorders. Such psychiatrists have in-depth knowledge regarding addiction and the impact it creates on mental health. 

The professionals assess, diagnose, and develop personalised treatment plans for their individuals regarding addiction and associated mental health conditions. Their multi-disciplinary approach makes it easier to get a complete view of each case, thus bringing recovery and sobriety over time. 

According to the research conducted jointly in the National Drug Dependence Treatment Centre (NDDTC) and All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS), New Delhi, it is surveyed that the states where the prevalence has been highest among cannabis use have included Uttar Pradesh, Punjab, Sikkim, Chhattisgarh, and Delhi. 

Skills and Expertise They Bring to Treatment 

Psychiatrists, combining clinical knowledge with therapeutic skills, are now providing evidence-based treatments to people addicted to drugs. Among them include:   

• Diagnosing co-occurring disorders  

• Prescribing and managing medications  

• Delivering behavioural therapies 

Common Drug Addiction Issues Treated by Psychiatrists 

A drug addiction psychiatrist addresses a variety of problems, commonly divided into groups to make it easier to understand and categorise: 

Substance Use Disorders

This category focuses on the harmful relationship people develop with substances, where they feel a physical and psychological need to use them despite negative consequences.

• Involves physical and psychological dependence on drugs or alcohol.
• Examples: Alcohol, opioids (e.g., heroin, prescription painkillers), stimulants (e.g., cocaine, methamphetamine), and cannabis.
• Treatment focuses on detoxification, rehabilitation, and long-term recovery strategies.

Co-occurring Mental Health Issues

It’s common for someone dealing with addiction to also experience mental health disorders, and these issues need to be treated together for a full recovery.

• Refers to the presence of mental health disorders alongside substance use disorders.
• Examples: Depression, anxiety, PTSD (Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder), bipolar disorder.
• Treatment addresses both the addiction and the mental health condition simultaneously, often through integrated therapy approaches.

Long-term Addiction Behaviours

Even after the initial treatment, people in recovery still face ongoing challenges, such as cravings or emotional triggers that could lead to relapse.

• Focuses on ongoing challenges faced by individuals in recovery.
• Examples: Cravings, relapses, dependency, and emotional triggers that lead to substance use.
• Treatment aims at helping patients manage triggers, maintain sobriety, and build coping skills to prevent relapse.

Substance Use Disorders 

Psychiatrists treat a range of substance use disorders, which include alcohol use disorder, opioid use disorder, and other forms of dependency on legal or illegal substances. These disorders can manifest symptoms that affect daily functioning and relationships. This is the first step in effective treatment, which can go from less intensive outpatient therapy to such rehabilitative activities as complete inpatient rehabilitation programs. 

Co-occurring Mental Health Conditions 

There are many individuals diagnosed with comorbid mental illness while receiving treatment for a substance use disorder-anxiety, depression, or even post-traumatic stress disorder.  

Naturally, this creates an even more complicated clinical profile and necessitates the services of a psychiatrist specialising in drug addictions, as well as the skills to be aware of as well as address both problems at once. 

Long-term Addiction Behaviours 

Long-term addiction behaviours may show themselves through compulsive patterns, which get in the way of recovery efforts. Addiction psychiatrists keep watch for these patterns; they also monitor the behaviour in their use of interventions, ones designed to shift those patterns towards recovery success.  

Their intervention programs may offer and switch different combinations of these in order to stay up-to-date with the shifting needs of their individual. 

The Importance of Psychiatry in Drug Addiction Treatment 

An essential part of addiction psychiatry is the understanding of the root causes of substance use disorders. The review of such factors as previous trauma or mental health conditions helps psychiatrists develop a treatment plan that addresses both the addiction and the root cause of the addiction. 

Diagnosing the Root Causes of Addiction 

It is essential to have the proper diagnosis because this helps tailor the effective treatment strategy to support the individual on the way to recovery with a good chance of achieving long-term remission and reduced potential for relapse. 

Personalised Treatment Plans 

Personalising treatment plans is the primary need in addiction recovery. No two individuals experience addiction differently, and thus, their treatment should be reflective of specific circumstances.  

Addiction psychiatrists meticulously work out customised care plans for their individuals, whereby consideration is given to the severity of addiction, co-occurring disorders, and individual preference, so all comprehensive approaches to the deployment of different therapeutic options. 

Ongoing Support and Recovery Strategies 

Recovery from addiction is often mistaken as ceasing once treated, but maintenance is necessary. This involves careful observation and continuous aid by psychiatrists who usually can work with such individuals to lay out long-range strategies for handling relapse once sober.  

Much more than talking the individuals through their conditions, psychiatrists bridge them as they lead their individuals gradually into community-based social and work behaviours that become integral patterns. 

Treatment Modalities Offered by Drug Addiction Psychiatrists 

Effective addiction recovery requires a personalised blend of therapy, medication, and mental health support. Drug addiction psychiatrists use a mix of behavioural techniques and medical interventions to ensure holistic care. The following modalities are among the most widely used to treat addiction and associated psychiatric conditions in clinical settings.

Behavioural Therapies 

Behavioural therapies form a key part of psychiatric treatment for drug addiction. These include:

• Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT): Helps identify and change negative thought patterns and behaviours. 

• Motivational Interviewing: Encourages intrinsic motivation for change. 

• Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (DBT): Focuses on emotional regulation and distress tolerance. 

• Family Therapy: Improves communication and family dynamics. 

Medication-Assisted Therapy (MAT) 

MAT combines medications with counselling to treat substance use disorders effectively. It helps reduce cravings, manage withdrawal symptoms, and improve treatment retention. Common options include:

• Methadone: For opioid addiction. 

• Buprenorphine: For opioid addiction. 

• Naltrexone: For opioid and alcohol addiction. 

• Acamprosate: For alcohol addiction, aiding in maintaining long-term sobriety. 

Dual Diagnosis Treatment for Mental Health Disorders 

When substance use and mental health disorders coexist, treatment becomes more complex. A dual diagnosis program ensures both are addressed simultaneously for effective and lasting recovery.

• Addresses co-occurring mental health conditions such as:  

• Depression 

• Anxiety 

• Bipolar disorder 

• PTSD 

• Medications and therapy are carefully tailored to each individual’s needs, ensuring both the addiction and underlying mental health issues are treated together for better outcomes. 

How to Find the Right Drug Addiction Psychiatrist 

The psychiatrist can make all the difference in finding the right kind of addiction treatment. Their expertise helps uncover underlying issues, recommend appropriate therapies, and guide long-term recovery. Choosing the right psychiatrist ensures personalised care that aligns with an individual’s unique challenges and recovery goals.

Credentials and Qualifications to Look For 

Seek the specific qualifications and training when a psychiatrist is wanted for drug addiction. Being a board-certified addiction psychiatrist, along with relevant practice experience in the treatment of substance use disorders, is one of the main indicators of professional status.  

In addition to that, insight into their practice approach and expertise in various types of therapeutic practices are helpful in choosing the most fitting psychiatrist. 

Questions to Ask Before Choosing a Psychiatrist 

Before finalising a drug addiction psychiatrist, it’s helpful to ask important questions to ensure they’re the right fit for your recovery journey.

• What is your treatment experience of persons with substance-use disorders?  

• What therapeutic approaches do you suggest?  

• How do you engage family members as part of therapy?  

Preventing Relapse: Psychiatric Approaches to Long-term Recovery 

Psychiatrists play a key role in developing strategies for preventing relapse. they assess risk factors, monitor progress, adjust treatment plans as needed, and equip individuals with coping skills and psychological tools that reduce the chances of returning to substance use and support long-term stability in recovery.: 

Building Resilience Through Therapy 

Therapeutic processes that help individuals build coping skills and resilience are vital in preventing relapse. These sessions promote emotional stability and self-awareness. Psychiatric support gives them confidence and the tools to deal with stressors that would otherwise lead to substance use, helping ensure long-term recovery and relapse prevention. 

Monitoring and Adjusting Treatment Plans 

Regular monitoring and the flexibility to change the treatment plan at the pace of the individual's progress are the keys to good psychiatric care. Being flexible and attentive will enable addiction psychiatrists to be responsive to their individuals' changing needs throughout the recovery process. 

Support Systems to Aid Recovery 

It helps much in preventing a relapse building up sufficient support networks in and out of the therapeutic settings. The increased accountability among support groups from friends and family does provide much emotional support in trying times, helping individuals stay committed to their recovery journey. 

Drug Addiction and Mental Health: The Psychiatrist's Perspective 

Drug addiction and mental health play a vital role in a well-balanced concern for the complex nexus between drug dependency and mental illnesses to address it appropriately. 

Understanding the Link Between Addiction and Depression 

A large portion of individuals attending treatment for addictions also exhibit depression, meaning psychiatrists will have to manage both issues in tandem. While dealing with collaborative care, one can promote an integrated approach, which helps to improve one's chances for recovery. 

Treating Anxiety and Addiction Together 

This is equally important when treating anxiety with addiction for comprehensive treatment. Combined care ensures all symptoms are properly taken care of, leading to long-term stabilisation and recovery of the individual. 

The Role of Integrated Psychiatric Care 

Addiction treatment becomes more effective as psychiatric care incorporates the different facets of treatment, namely medical, therapeutic, and support services, under a more workable framework on addiction. With this coordination, healthcare professionals optimise the chance for positive recovery results. 

When to Seek Professional Help for Drug Addiction

Identifying the following signs that demand professional intervention may be a life-changer. 

Recognising the Need for Treatment 

The intensity of a person's substance use and the impact it has on their life are sometimes ignored. Loss of control, impaired interpersonal relationships, and responsibility neglect are some essential indicators that cannot be ignored and seem to call for professional help. 

Finding the Right Psychiatrist or Treatment Centre 

Finding an appropriate psychiatrist or treatment centre that would relate more to the individual's needs and expectations will begin the journey to recovery. 

Engaging with healthcare professionals specialised in addiction increases the likelihood of achieving long-term recovery. 

Why Choose a Psychiatrist for Drug Addiction Treatment? 

A psychiatry professional working with addiction treatment is very important for several reasons. At Cadabam’s, our Addiction disorder specialists devise particular interventions tailored to the treatment of these disorders, thus creating a non-judgmental therapeutic setting conducive to recovery. 

We provide comprehensive treatment for addiction and other mental health conditions that often occur with addiction, enhancing the long-term recovery and quality of life of the individuals. Our Addiction psychiatrists work directly with the individuals to devise explicit interventions and ongoing support with various therapeutic techniques and, as such, become unreplaceable allies in overcoming addiction. 

If you are searching for a solution to your problem, Cadabam’s Rehabilitation Centre can help you with its team of specialised 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 their drug addiction. Get in touch with us today. You can call us at +91 96111 94949. 

FAQs 

Do psychiatrists treat drug addiction? 

Yes, Psychiatrists specialise in drug addiction treatment due to its multifaceted aspects on physical, mental, and emotional dimensions. They establish specific treatment plans utilising therapy and medicine, among holistic methods. 

What is the role of psychiatry in addiction? 

Psychiatry deals with psychological and physiological addiction. Psychiatrists diagnose the cause, offer therapy, and administer medications to ensure one recovers without relapse. 

What is the psychiatric theory of addiction? 

According to the psychiatric theory of addiction, addiction is a chronic brain disorder influenced by genetics, environment, and mental health. This approach has emphasised the treatment of both biological and psychological aspects. 

Are psychologists doctors? 

No, psychologists are not medical doctors. They have advanced degrees in psychology and practice therapy but cannot prescribe medication, unlike psychiatrists, who are medical doctors.