Using Drug And Alcohol Counseling PA Residents Manage Their Addictions

By Claire Bolton


One of the growing problems in the USA is that of substance abuse. While the problem is most prevalent among young adults and teens, individuals of any age might fall subject to an addiction. Using treatment through drug and alcohol counseling PA residents find help managing symptoms.

Addictions are considered chronic illnesses. Like other chronic conditions, there is no cure for an addiction. However, it is possible with treatment for the individual to manage the symptoms. For many individuals, this means it is possible to live a clean and sober life, even though they will always be considered an addict.

There are many different types of programs available. Inpatient programs require the patient to live in a facility free of drugs while undergoing therapy on a daily basis. Outpatient programs allow the individual to live at home and continue to work while attending sessions for six to eight hours each week. The best type of program will depend on the individual and substance of choice.

Reducing one's substance use can be medically dangerous and should be supervised. In many cases, the discomfort due to withdrawal is significant enough that the individual begins using drugs again in order to find relief. For many, detox is the logical first step to treatment. It allows the brain to be cleared of the influence of the foreign substance so the client is able to think clearly when working with the counselor.

Most rehab programs depend heavily on cognitive behavior therapy. Using this approach, counselors teach individuals to recognize triggers leading to abuse. By identifying the causes, the person is able to learn new reactions to the triggers that do not lead to further substance abuse. Sessions may include the individual alone, in a group or with immediate family. Each setting addresses different aspects of substance use and effective tools for management.

When dealing with a teen, it is best to choose a program specifically designed to meet their special needs. Most teens do not do well in adult programs. These programs place special emphasis on group sessions that use peer pressure in a positive way to help the teen make better decisions in managing his or her addiction to drugs.

The battle against one's addictions is a lifelong one. It is important to select a program offering adequate aftercare. Options may include enrollment in a 12 step modeled support group. Another alternative is to continue in therapy after the most intense portion of treatment is completed, but at a reduced level.

Those fighting addiction as well as their family members should understand the nature of this disease includes occasional setbacks. Many people who successfully manage symptoms of addiction today have failed in the past. Sometimes they must go through the process again beginning with detox. At other times, they are able to return to therapy and begin managing symptoms again. Failures do not necessarily mean the program did not work.

With drug and alcohol counseling PA citizens can begin managing the symptoms of an addiction. While managing one's disease is far from easy, many find the effort worthwhile. The program allows the individual to once again take a productive role in society.




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