Alcohol and substance abuse refer to a compulsive and uncontrollable dependence on them despite the harmful consequences. This unpleasant habit can cause disruptive changes in the brain that are long-lasting, sometimes throughout a lifetime. It can lead to loss of control over the thought process, emotions, and mental faculties, resulting in one being unable to maintain inter-personal relationships or function as a normal part of society. The easy availability of temptations makes it difficult to narrow down on the right treatment options for alcohol and substance abuse.

But, this does not not mean that individuals have not been able to opt for the right methods which have let them lead an addiction-free life. There are multiple treatments are available to benefit individuals suffering from alcohol and substance abuse. However, acknowledging the struggle with substance dependence is the first step on the path to recovery. Once the problem is recognized, finding the perfect treatment program, which addresses the underlying and co-occurring causes of addiction is not rocket science. Withdrawal symptoms like sweating, shaking, seizures, and hallucinations demand immediate attention.

Discover the following treatment options for alcohol and substance abuse that focus on specific areas:

Rehabilitation program
These long-term treatment programs designed specifically for substance abuse and addictive disorders are highly effective and focus on inducing a drug-free lifestyle. They work on various behavioral patterns of the individuals to help them take up social, family, and professional responsibilities and be re-integrated into society. The three common types of facilities under these treatment options for alcohol and substance abuse are as follows:

• Short-term residential treatment: A therapeutic community with intensive counseling focuses exclusively on detoxification. This effective combination aims to prepare the individual to overcome the symptoms of dependency and withdrawal.
• Therapeutic communities: These are residences offering long-term treatment for individuals suffering from severe addictive disorders. The duration is generally anywhere between 6 to 12 months with on-site staff and other experts. The community and the staff work together to induce changes in the attitude and behavior towards drugs and alcohol.
• Recovery housing: The affected individuals receive supervised treatments for a short-term period to develop responsibilities and adapt to a life without substance use. The specialized treatments in recovery housing include practical tips and advice on finding work and handling finances. It also helps the individual develop a connection with community support services during the final sessions of the treatment.
• Inpatient rehab program: In this treatment option for alcohol and substance abuse, the duration depends on the severity of the addiction and the existence of any co-occurring mental health conditions. It also takes into account if the individual had been through rehab programs before.
• Self-help groups
  This is one of the important treatment options for alcohol and substance abuse that follows detoxification, counseling and rehab programs. It helps individuals with similar addictive disorders come together to motivate each other to fight substance dependence. It’s an effective way of eliminating the feeling of isolation and can be an important source of education and information. A couple of such groups are Alcoholics Anonymous and Narcotics Anonymous.

One can find out about them on the internet or consult their doctor for information on the same. Individuals can also check out other treatment options for alcohol and substance abuse such as medication, with the help of a certified professional.