Mental health professionals have realized there is a spectrum for people who drink alcohol or use other mind-altering drugs. They no longer view this usage as an either-or situation, in which a person either has a substance abuse problem or does not. Some individuals may have a moderate problem with drug dependency that they can resolve with the right motivation or limited counseling. Others are in serious trouble with Drug Addiction in Southwest FL and will benefit greatly from outpatient rehab.
Physical Addiction
Not all drugs cause physical addiction when used regularly. Marijuana, for instance, can cause psychological dependency, but there are no true withdrawal symptoms. In contrast, heroin, cocaine and crystal meth are causes of Drug Addiction in Southwest FL. Those are illegal substances, but prescription medication also can be addicting. Regular use of tranquilizers and prescription pain medicine can result in physical addiction, resulting in serious withdrawal symptoms if someone stops using suddenly.
Outpatient Treatment
With regular counseling during outpatient therapy at a treatment center like Nextep, the person gains insight into why the drug of choice is so compelling. This client learns strategies to stay clean and sober, and how to avoid being triggered. Most people do not have the time or resources to participate in an inpatient program, so effective outpatient treatment is of enormous benefit.
Dual Diagnosis
Dual diagnosis is common with people who have become addicted. They have a mental health issue that led them to start using, or that developed because of their drug use. Pervasive anxiety is a prime example.
Finding the Way to Recovery
Some individuals remember what life was like before addiction, as they did not develop the problem until their mid-20s or later. Others are venturing into unchartered territory, as they started using during high school or college and have never experienced the “real world” as an adult without chemical dependency. Still others developed the habit as a young adult or in middle age but have been using the drug for so long that they cannot imagine being without it. All of these persons can find their way to recovery with the help of outpatient therapy. Click here to get started.
