A lot of people around the world are struggling with various types of addictions. Unfortunately, they are not sure whether they should seek treatment now. It is easy to understand their hesitance. In fact, the idea of seeking treatment comes with a lot of anxiety for both addicts and their loved ones. Most addicts believe they can overcome addiction easily. The truth is that a person who is addicted to something cannot stop it whenever he or she wants. The idea of future willpower keeps most addicts from seeking treatment today.
You should note that addiction alters one’s brain chemistry. Thus, the brain starts to work against you whenever you try to reverse the situation. For some, fear of withdrawal symptoms makes them continue their addiction habits. Studies show that addiction becomes worse over time. This means that the longer a person is on the drugs, the more it will change his or her brain chemistry. This means that the level of addiction increases and you are less likely to achieve recovery. Also, the body builds up a tolerance, meaning you will need more and more to get the same effect.
Trends in Addiction
As you know, addiction is not something new. In fact, it has been around for several centuries. However, it has changed a lot. Currently, the types of addictions and methods of dealing with addictions keep on changing. It is not easy to stay on top of such things. However, there are some emerging trends in addiction and treatment.
For instance, synthetic drugs are quite common. A good example is synthetic marijuana which contains chemicals that have similar properties to THC that is available in marijuana. Drugs can also mimic chemicals, which are available in natural drugs. The truth is that most synthetic drugs are more potent as compared to their natural counterparts. In addition, they are more addictive. Some of the popular synthetic drugs include N-Bomb, Krokodil, Cloud 9, and Scooby Snax. Synthetic drugs produce a wide range of effects such as hallucinations and even boost in energy.
Another emerging trend in addiction is that the age of people who are getting addicted is getting lower and lower with every day. For instance, most addicts are teenagers. In fact, most drugs are made to appeal the younger generation. This explains why treatment geared toward helping teens is more relevant than ever.
Types of Addictions Treated in Residential Rehabs
Addiction is a complicated condition that is characterized by continuous drug use and even problematic behaviors, despite an understanding of its harmful effects. Other than alcohol and drug use, people can also be addicted to certain behaviors like gambling and gaming. It does not matter whether addiction is behavioral or chemical, it can have adverse effects and even reduce one’s quality of life. It can affect several parts of an individual’s life, and some of the consequences include:
The following are the three main types of addiction:
Alcohol Addiction
You should note that alcohol is the most abused and commonly used substance. Alcohol addiction and use may result in a pattern of problematic behaviors that are characterized by an inability to control their use and the negative consequences that may arise.
Alcohol is legal and taken to lower anxiety and inhibitions. Ethanol is the only type of alcohol that is used in making alcoholic beverages. It is produced through the fermentation of fruits and grains. Fermentation is a chemical process in which yeast acts on certain ingredients contained in the food to create alcohol. It is consumed as a drink in a wide range of forms such as wine, beer, spirits, and hard liquor.
Alcohol is quite addictive. However, not all people who consume it may become addicted. Unfortunately, some individuals are more susceptible as compared to others. There is a clear difference between alcohol abuse and addiction. Addiction refers to both physical and psychological dependency. On the other hand, people who abuse alcohol may not always be addicts. They are simply heavy drinkers who will continue drinking notwithstanding the harmful effects it causes.
Drug Addiction
In the past, drug addiction was considered to be a sign of weakness or moral failing. Nowadays, it is quite disastrous, chronic brain disease. Each year, thousands of people across the country try drugs such as cocaine, heroin, or marijuana for the first time. A considerable percentage of these persons are unable to stop without assistance.
Just like other chronic diseases, drug addiction is also progressive. Although not every person that uses drugs becomes addicted, each case of addiction starts with experimental or recreational use. When one tries to stop using drugs, he or she experiences uncomfortable symptoms such as nausea, anxiety, muscle pain, cravings, and headaches. Other negative consequences include relationship conflicts, problems at work, and physical illnesses.
Behavioural Addictions
Behavioural addiction is a type of addiction which involves an urge or compulsion to engage in a non-substance related behaviour despite its known negative effects on an individual’s mental, social, physical, or financial well-being. Some of these addictions include compulsive gambling, gaming, eating disorders, work, and even shopping. The following are some of the characteristics exhibited by persons suffering from addictive behaviours:
- The person is obsessed or continuously things about the activity, substance, or activity
- They will engage in the activity even when they know it causes harm
- A person suffers from irritability, restlessness, depression, or craving upon cessation
- A person often suffers from low self-esteem
Benefits of Residential Drug Rehab
Residential or inpatient rehab centres offer a wide range of benefits that are helpful to persons who want to overcome alcohol, drug, or behavioural addiction. The following are some of the benefits of residential addiction treatment centres:
Residential addiction treatment centres provide a structure that is not easily found elsewhere. Residential programs provide minimal free time. This is necessary to prevent the patient from thinking about how to find their substances or engage in behavioural activities. When a patient has minimal time thinking about alcohol or drugs, it becomes easy for him or her to recover.
No Negative Triggers
Residential addiction treatment centres limit interaction with people outside the rehab. Moreover, they monitor any visitors. This is necessary to prevent smuggling of alcohol or drugs and negative influences that can result from people outside the rehab centre.
Strict Supervision
A lot of addicts undergo withdrawal stages. This may be quite dangerous and life-threatening situation. In fact, mental withdrawal can last several months. Fortunately, patients that experience mental withdrawal at residential rehab centres receive professional counselling and continuous medical supervision. In this way, patients can get the much required emotional support.
Opportunity to Make New Friends
All patients in the rehab centre are undergoing the same thing. Thus, they have a similar goal, achieving long-lasting sobriety. Inpatient facilities are great places for addicts to forge strong relationships and get the support they need.
Therapy Options
Most residential addiction treatment centres provide a variety of therapy options to speed up the recovery process. These include meditation, pilates, massage, yoga, and exercise routines. These alternative therapies are useful ways of releasing stress, improving mental concentration and overall physical health of the patient. This can mean a huge difference in the recovery process.
Balanced Diet
Residential rehab centres understand the value of proper nutrition. They ensure all patients receive balanced diets that can help them to get through the withdrawal process. Proper nutrition also helps patients to gain mental and physical strength needed during the recovery process.
Tools for Recovery
Residential rehab programs will provide support to patients even after the completion of inpatient treatment program. Patients will have acquired a wide range of tools and tactics to use anytime they have cravings to avoid relapse. Residential rehab centers equip patients with knowledge and tools they can use anywhere and anytime. In this way, they can save the person’s life.
24/7 Support
Addicts attending residential rehab get professional support throughout the day. During initial recovery stages, patients need support throughout the day. This can mean a lot of difference since most relapse cases occur during the initial stages of recovery.
No Access to Alcohol, Drugs, or Activities
A residential rehab facility means that an addict will stay at the treatment center at all times unless authorized to go out. Even when a patient is allowed to go out, he or she is under strict supervision. On the other hand, people in outpatient rehab programs are at risk of relapsing as they have unrestricted access to their substances. A person at a residential addiction treatment facility does not have access to alcohol or drugs. This makes it the most successful form of treatment.
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Discipline
The truth is that addicts lack discipline. Fortunately, they will learn essential self-control techniques while at the residential rehab. They will also learn other techniques such as daily inventory, self-control rituals, positive affirmations, therapy, and meditation.
How to Choose a Reputable Residential Rehab Program
The first step is to realize that you or your loved one requires addiction treatment. The next thing is to look for the right rehab center. However, you are likely to be overwhelmed by the available options. When you find the right facility, you are rest assured that your loved one will get the much-needed help. The following are some useful factors to consider:
Location
It is a good idea to consider the proximity of a rehab facility to your home. It is best if it is located in your county or city. You know yourself or your loved one well, and you can find the right facility that can help him or her succeed in recovery.
License
Check whether the facility is accredited, certified, and licensed. This is necessary to ensure your loved one gets quality services. Nowadays, various third-party valuations can help you know whether a residential rehab center is certified, licensed or accredited.
Therapy Services
A reputable addiction treatment center ought to use acceptable therapies that include cognitive-behavioral, group, and individual therapy. Moreover, it should address dual diagnoses. It is advisable to choose an inpatient rehab that provides alternative therapies. Also, treatment should be customized to meet the needs of the patient. Remember that there are no two addicts who are the same. In addition, you should check the core principles of the treatment plan. Some rehab centers focus on 12-step program and others in religion.
Reputation
A reputable residential rehab should have been in operation for longer than a few years. Moreover, it should have a history of offering superior treatment. You can get a list of past patients who you can call and get answers to your questions. This will give you an idea of what to expect during the treatment.
Cost
Financial cost is one of the factors that hinder most people from seeking addiction treatment. You need to sort out your financial problems. However, most addicts suffer from financial issues because they prioritize alcohol, drugs, or gambling first.
Fortunately, you can use your insurance cover, government grants, private funds, donations, and financial aid to cover the cost.
Aftercare Services
The truth is that no rehab program can cure addiction completely. This is because addiction calls for a lifelong commitment to the treatment program. Even with the best program and well-thought plans to control relapse trigger, there is always a risk. It is possible to slip-up. This does not mean that rehab program is a failure. It is still possible to achieve recovery. This explains why aftercare support is necessary. It offers a patient that much-needed support after the completion of a residential treatment program. Moreover, it helps a patient to rejoin the society and enjoy a drug-free lifestyle.
Finding the best residential rehab center is quite tricky. Fortunately, the above tips can help you make an informed decision and help you or your loved one get the much-needed treatment. You can contact us on 0330 113 2627 or email us at help@rehabhc.co.uk or complete the inquiry form. Our professional addiction treatment experts are ready to help you choose the right program that fits your needs.