A variety of drug addiction treatments exist. They vary slightly depending on a number of factors. Some of these include the type of substance being abused, the specific problems and needs of the patient and the patient’s gender and age. All of these factors and many more determine the type of treatment best suited to each individual. However, there are some familiar components of all.

Whatever the particular method, most are based on science and medical research. Behavioral therapy and counseling are the cornerstones of successful treatments. Individual and group therapy help the addict to identify his triggers, understand his illness and learn coping mechanisms so he can make progress in his recovery. Learning how to avoid relapse and what to do if it occurs is an important part of behavioral therapy.

A good program should provide resources and referrals outside of the rehabilitation clinic. Many who are recovering from addiction need additional help to find jobs, receive medical and psychological care and continue making progress with ongoing counseling in order to avoid relapse. Those whose addiction has caused them to engage in high-risk behaviors need HIV/AIDS education and counseling so they do not pose a risk to anyone else and learn ways to protect themselves.

Medications in conjunction with other therapies are often recommended for patients addicted to opiates. Withdrawal from drugs such as heroin and prescription morphine can be excruciating and sometimes fatal if not monitored properly. Certain medications such as methadone can sometimes be useful in making the detoxification process less painful.

Recovery from addiction takes time. More often than not a one time, short-term stint in rehab isn’t going to be enough for the patient to abstain for life. Drug addiction is a chronic disorder characterized by multiple phases of sobriety and relapse. It is a lifelong struggle but with the proper care, it can be managed and overcome successfully.

If you need help finding the right drug or alcohol rehabilitation center for your needs let us help, we can answer your questions on different methods of treatment and effects of many types of drugs.

Call today; 1-877-744-3536

Sometimes it isn’t easy to see when we’re looking at ourselves. Denial is common among those who abuse drugs and alcohol and their friends and family may not want to see the problem either. If you think you may be developing a problem with drugs or alcohol, or if you know someone that may be, ask the following questions.

Do I use regularly? Or do I use more than other people?

Whether it’s several times a day or even just once daily, if you feel that you have to have this drug or drink on a regular basis, you may be dependent.

Can I stop using the drug on my own? Have I stopped using drugs or alcohol for extended periods of time in the past several months?

Failure to discontinue use on your own is a sign of trouble. Casual users can take it or leave it. Those who are addicted cannot stop using and using the drug occupies their thoughts almost constantly.

Do I spend money I don’t have on the drug?

If you’re behind on your rent and your bills are going to collection because you spend that money to obtain drugs or alcohol, you need help.

Am I engaging in behavior I never thought I would?

Addicts often steal, sell belongings and resort to degrading practices such as prostitution in order to purchase drugs.            

Do I feel anxious when my supply runs low?

Those who are dependent on drugs work hard to keep a constant supply available. Feelings of anxiety or panic and distress often occur when the user realizes that his supply is dwindling.

Do I resort to getting high every time I’m faced with a problem?

Self-medicating with drugs or alcohol at the slightest provocation may be a warning sign. Almost everyone at one time or another has “had a few too many” when something devastating has happened in their lives. But if you reach for drugs and alcohol every time a problem is the least bit distressing, it may be a sign of addiction.

Is all my time focused on getting and using drugs?

Typically a drug addict will spend most of his waking hours chasing down drugs so he can get high.

If you answered yes to one or more of these questions, you may have a drug or alcohol dependency that needs to be treated. To find a quality drug and alcohol rehabilitation program contact a professional addiction counselor. Not all rehab programs are the same, there are many different methods of treatment and there is not one that is right for everyone.

To speak to a professional addiction counselor call 1-877-744-3536

Methylphenidate or Ritalin has grown in popularity over the past four decades. Not only is it the most prescribed drug for treating ADHD and ADD but it is also one of the most popularly abused drugs among adolescents and young adults. In fact it is estimated that 85-90% of prescriptions for Ritalin are for children and adolescents.

Adults suffering from obesity, depression, lethargy and narcolepsy are among the fewer recipients who receive Ritalin to treat their disorders, even though Ritalin is not indicated for such use.

The widespread availability of Ritalin, particularly in the United States adds to the potential for its abuse. Teenagers and college aged adults abuse the drug for its cocaine-like properties, often taking many more times the recommended dose to induce a euphoric affect. Crushing the tablets and snorting them or mixing the powder with other substances for IV use are the popular methods implemented by adults to abuse Ritalin.

In 2004 over 8000 cases of Ritalin overdose were reported in the United States. The majority of those were caused by intentional ingestion for the purpose of committing suicide or getting high. Clearly this drug is a threat to the well being of our youth because of its accessibility and acceptance as a viable tool in treating disorders that could be managed more safely using other methods.

Signs of abuse include: Decreased appetite, weight loss, irritability, and rapid speech, euphoria followed by bouts of depression, insomnia and paranoia.

Treatment for Ritalin abuse is similar for that of cocaine, methamphetamines and other stimulants. When looking for a drug and alcohol rehabilitation center for minors or adults you need to find a center that is not going to make the situation worse than it already is. Talk to a professional not just salespeople from rehab centers, learn the truth about  the centers from a natural third party that can help you find the help you need.

For help with ADD or ADHD medication abuse please call today we can help.

1-877-744-3536

NIDA: 12 Principles of Effective Addiction Treatment

If you are seeking treatment for addiction for yourself or a loved one, the National Institute on Drug Abuse has put together 12 principles for finding effective treatment. Consider the following before making your choice.

One size does not fit all. Find a treatment or facility that matches your own personal problems and needs.

Treatment should be accessible and readily available so the patient applicant doesn’t get lost.

Treatment must encompass the drug abuse, as well as physical and psychological issues and legal troubles.

Treatment should be flexible and grow and change with the patient’s recovery progress.

Adequate time should be given oneself for treatment. Three months is standard although some addicts may require more. Whether you succeed or not depends greatly on how much time you receive effective treatment.

Counseling, both group and individual is essential for learning new ways to cope with stress, learn constructive activities to replace drug using habits and learn to navigate interpersonal relationships.

Mental disorders often are misdiagnosed with addiction and should also be treated only after the addict is clean and sober for at least six months.

Medical detoxification is but a small part of the total treatment experience and is only the first stage in getting the addict on the road to recovery. It is useful; in decreasing symptoms of withdrawal.

Even if the patient does not voluntarily participate, treatment can be effective. Sanctions and enticements by relatives, employers and the criminal justice system can get an addict where he needs to be to get help.

Monitoring possible drug use during treatment encourages the patient to stay clean and should be a component of the program.

Assessments for HIV/AIDS, sexually transmitted and communicable diseases such as tuberculosis and hepatitis should be given. Counseling can help patients overcome high-risk behaviors.

Relapse is often an inevitable part of the recovery process and should not be viewed as a failure. On-going sessions and participation in self help programs after rehabilitation can increase the rate of success and recovery.

For help finding effective treatment for drug and alcohol abuse and to speak with an addiction conselor please call 1-877-744-3536