Understanding Barriers to Drug Addiction Treatment — and How to Overcome Them

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Despite the many health, financial, and interpersonal consequences of substance use disorder, many patients go years without treatment. There are many barriers to addiction treatment, including social stigmas, denial, financial anxiety, and travel stress. This article provides a detailed guide to common obstacles and how to overcome them, finding reliable treatment and lasting relief near Sherman Oaks, CA.

Social Stigma

Unfortunately, for many, the fear of discrimination or judgment, especially from loved ones, is a significant deterrent to seeking drug addiction treatment. Despite much improvement, there is still a stigma associated with substance use disorder, which frames addiction as a moral failing, instead of a disease that requires specific treatment. Those struggling with drug addiction blame themselves, striving to overcome it on their own, afraid of admitting “failure.”

Recognizing that there is no shame in admitting you need treatment will help you overcome this social stigma. Conversations with loved ones who provide empathetic encouragement can bolster a patient’s confidence. Joining an addiction treatment program helps patients overcome their chemical dependence and shame, providing emotional and physical relief.

Financial Anxiety

Patients often avoid professional treatment due to anxieties about the cost as well as potential loss of employment. However, concerns about the financial burden of drug addiction treatment shrink when compared to the future costs of ongoing addiction. Not only can substance abuse cost you your job, but it can also lead to lasting health issues, which increase medical bills. The cost of treatment is significantly smaller in the long run!

There are also many ways to reduce the cost of drug addiction treatment. Many rehabilitation facilities work with insurance companies to provide financial assistance. They may also offer financing options and outpatient treatment programs that allow patients to maintain employment while attending weekly sessions.

Geographical Barriers

If you live far from a drug rehabilitation center, travel may pose another barrier to treatment. The cost in time and gas to travel to and from the facility adds a degree of friction that prevents many patients from seeking the help they need, especially if you don’t have access to a reliable means of transportation. Fortunately, there are ways to access drug addiction treatment even if you don’t live near a facility. Telehealth and virtual recovery programs bring drug addiction treatment to you, eliminating geographical barriers.

However, there are many addiction treatment centers near Sherman Oaks, CA, so you won’t have to travel far! At nearby facilities, you’ll find all the resources and support necessary to achieve a lasting recovery. Outpatient programs provide flexible scheduling, making it easier for you to plan travel to and from the facility!

Denial

The trickiest barrier to overcome is denial. For many reasons, patients may refuse to see the need for help. Whether due to shame, fear of financial burdens, or fear of personal judgment, many patients maintain a belief that their substance use isn’t a problem. It can be difficult to see loved ones suffering from substance use disorder while in denial. However, denial is the first stage of recovery, and compassionate intervention can encourage patients to embrace addiction treatment near Sherman Oaks, CA.

If you or someone you know is struggling with substance use disorder, Twin Town Treatment Centers can help. We provide reliable, evidence-based treatment with licensed staff who work closely with each patient, helping them develop healthy behavioral changes. We treat drug and alcohol addiction, so patients can enjoy a fulfilling, chemical-free life! Call us today at 866-594-8844 or contact us online to schedule an appointment.

The Connection Between Mental Health and Substance Abuse

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Substance use disorder doesn’t always exist in isolation. In fact, mental illness and alcohol addiction often go hand-in-hand. This creates a unique challenge for patients and treatment, requiring individualized strategies that treat both challenges together. The more you understand the relationship between mental illness and drug addiction, the better you can develop practices that promote a happy, healthy life in Torrance, CA! Read on to learn about the connection between mental illness and substance abuse and how to treat co-occurring disorders effectively.

Self-Medication and Coping

Often, those struggling with mental health issues turn to drugs and alcohol to cope with challenging symptoms. Since mental health disorders have biological roots, self-medication is used to target and alleviate those symptoms. While these substances offer temporary relief, they create unhealthy dependencies and, ultimately, lead to drug and alcohol addiction. These coping mechanisms can lead to adverse side effects that worsen mental health issues, such as damaged relationships, instability, anxiety, and even homelessness.

Understanding the biological link between mental health disorders and substance abuse informs drug addiction treatment, ensuring it targets the root causes of substance abuse. If you or someone you know is struggling with mental health and drug addiction, a rehab treatment program may be the perfect solution for both.

Shared Risk Factors

Shared risk factors refer to risk factors that contribute to both mental illness and substance use disorder, such as biological vulnerabilities or external stressors. If your family has a history of mental illness or addiction, odds are you have a biological predisposition toward both. Childhood traumas also create psychological vulnerabilities to mental illness and alcohol addiction, as past traumas can lead to anxiety and depression in adult life.

The past isn’t the only factor in creating shared risks. Present stressors such as job loss, financial hardships, and divorce all increase the odds of developing mental illnesses and substance use disorder. Recognizing shared risks, past and present, helps licensed professionals tailor treatment for improved chances of recovery in Torrance, CA.

Co-Occurring Disorders

Co-occurring disorders refer to the dual diagnosis of mental illness and substance use disorder. This complicates treatment and recovery by presenting an even more intricate network of symptoms and triggers, one leading to the other in a cognitive domino effect. One statistic states that up to 50 percent of individuals with severe mental illness also deal with substance abuse. This concerning prevalence underscores how important it is for comprehensive addiction treatment programs to address both issues simultaneously.

Recovery Strategies

Dual diagnosis treatment approaches mental illness and substance use disorder with a comprehensive array of strategies. It often includes individual counseling, support groups, healthy coping skills, and family therapies. This treatment method addresses the complex relationship between mental illness and alcohol abuse, teaching patients lifestyle practices that help them confront internal and external stressors without chemicals.

Rehab treatment centers connect patients with support groups to provide emotional support during and beyond addiction treatment. Patients share their experiences in a safe, non-judgmental space, where they can meet others who understand the challenges of mental illness and substance use disorder. These strategies are the most effective way to treat co-occurring disorders for patients in Torrance, CA.

If you or someone you know is struggling with substance use disorder, call Twin Town Treatment Centers for reliable support. We provide individualized, evidence-based programs that help patients address triggers and develop relapse prevention strategies. We offer comprehensive care to increase your chances of a lasting recovery. Call Twin Town Treatment Centers today at 866-594-8844 or contact us online to schedule an appointment.

Benefits of Outpatient Programs for Drug Addiction Treatment

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Substance use disorder impacts every facet of a person’s life, including their education, career, interpersonal relationships, and long-term health. Fortunately, there are many addiction treatment options available, which address everything from meth use disorder to alcohol addiction. One of the most popular is outpatient treatment, which refers to programs that don’t require patients to live at the rehab facility. Read on to learn the many benefits of outpatient treatment programs in Sherman Oaks, CA!

Proven Effectiveness

When you sign up for drug addiction treatment, you should feel confident in its effectiveness. Extensive research into intensive outpatient programs (IOPs) shows they can be as effective as inpatient care, helping patients develop reliable tactics for long-term sobriety. Thanks to their flexibility and cost-effectiveness, outpatient treatment programs can actually increase completion rates versus inpatient options. Up to 70 percent of patient-clients who started at Twin Town Treatment Centers completed our IOP phase, a meaningful increase on the national average of approximately 38 percent.

Flexible Scheduling

Many patients prefer outpatient treatment programs for the flexibility they offer. Unlike inpatient care, patients can attend treatment at convenient times, allowing them to live at home and maintain work, school, and personal responsibilities. Evening and weekend sessions are available so patients can prioritize their recovery journey without negatively impacting their daily lives or incurring added financial burdens due to calling off work. Patients can discuss their scheduling needs to ensure their addiction treatment program is tailored to their lifestyle, guaranteeing personalized care and support.

Comprehensive and Personalized Treatment

IOPs offer comprehensive addiction treatment that targets the multi-faceted challenge posed by substance use disorder. These programs include proven methods that help patients work through the emotional, physical, and mental aspects of drug addiction. Individual therapies provide one-on-one care from licensed professionals who help patients develop relapse prevention strategies. Patients share treatment with others through group counseling, where they’ll experience ongoing emotional support.

Due to their comprehensive design, intensive outpatient programs can address various forms of drug addiction as well as co-occurring mental health challenges. The result goes beyond sobriety to improve patients’ overall quality of life and well-being in Sherman Oaks, CA.

Affordability

Since outpatient treatment doesn’t require round-the-clock care and accommodation of live-in needs, it tends to be more affordable. This advantage makes drug addiction treatment more accessible for patients in Sherman Oaks, CA. Financial hardship is often a barrier for many who’d otherwise seek professional treatment for their substance use disorder, underscoring the importance of affordable care through outpatient treatment programs. Further assistance is offered by insurance plans to cover some, if not all, of the required costs.

Access Community Support

Community support plays a significant role in the recovery journey. Staying at home throughout addiction treatment allows patients to receive care and support from friends, family, and their surrounding community. Specialized family programs help patients mend relationships damaged by substance abuse and strengthen their support network, which increases the likelihood of a lasting recovery. Rehab facilities also provide alumni groups where patients can find ongoing support from their recovery community to help navigate future challenges.

If you or someone you know is struggling with substance use disorder, Twin Town Treatment Centers can help. We offer outpatient treatment programs with flexible scheduling and evidence-based strategies tailored to each patient’s needs. We can help you develop the skills necessary to lead a fulfilling, substance-free life! Call Twin Town Treatment Centers today at 866-594-8844 or contact us online to schedule an appointment.

Tips for Choosing the Right Alcohol Rehab Program for You

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If you or someone you know is seeking treatment for alcohol addiction, it’s essential to understand how to find a suitable program. The right addiction treatment programs will provide personalized support to patients, helping them develop impactful recovery strategies and treating underlying triggers. Read on to learn our top tips for finding the right alcohol rehabilitation center for you in Los Alamitos, CA!

Know Your Needs

The better you understand your circumstances and needs, the easier it will be to identify a suitable alcohol addiction treatment program. No two substance use disorders are alike, and the specific substance you’re addicted to requires different methods for healing and relapse prevention. Consider the nature of your alcohol addiction and factor in any co-occurring mental health conditions, such as anxiety and depression.

Consider whether an inpatient or outpatient treatment program is best for your situation. It’s also helpful to ask yourself which resources you’d need and what assistance, if any, you’d need while participating in drug or alcohol addiction treatment. Outlining these details creates a strong foundation for a successful treatment experience in Los Alamitos, CA.

Conduct Thorough Addiction Program Research

Once you’ve collected ample personal information, you can move on to researching different alcohol rehab programs to find the one that best matches your needs. There are many kinds of addiction treatments, including inpatient, outpatient, and residential treatment, which come with unique advantages. Prioritize rehabilitation facilities that specialize in alcohol addiction to receive the most impactful treatment possible.

Programs that take a comprehensive approach to alcohol addiction treatment will increase your chances of a lasting recovery. These programs offer long-term assistance, from initial detoxification to aftercare support. We recommend shortlisting two or three different programs in Los Alamitos, CA, and compare their potential benefits to simplify your decision-making.

Seek Trusted Recommendations

One way to quickly find reliable alcohol rehabilitation centers is to look for recommendations from trustworthy sources. Ask your primary care provider, local recovery groups, therapists, and mental health professionals for reputable addiction treatment programs nearby. They should be familiar with best practices and point you toward a facility that upholds ethical care standards. The National Association of Addiction Treatment Providers (NAATP) directory is another excellent resource for finding licensed and accredited facilities, as are online reviews and patient testimonials.

Compare Alcohol Rehab Facilities

Once you have a shortlist of potential facilities, compare them to find the best combination of treatment resources and financial assistance. The most essential points to consider when making this comparison are how tailored a facility is to your recovery goals and which health insurance options are available. As important as it is to find an alcohol rehab center that caters to your health needs, it’s just as vital that it be affordable.

Consider Staff Qualifications

Look for addiction treatment facilities with proper licenses and certifications. Their staff should be trained in the latest evidence-based therapies, with mental health and addiction treatment certifications. Any rehab center in Los Alamitos, CA, should belong to notable organizations that monitor and uphold proper ethical standards, like NAATP. It’s also worth noting that a lower staff-to-patient ratio implies greater personalized treatment and support.

Twin Town Treatment Centers is proudly certified by the state of California and accredited by the Joint Commission. We provide individualized, science-backed treatment for drug and alcohol addiction, helping patients develop reliable relapse prevention strategies. If you or someone you know is struggling with substance use disorder, call Twin Town Treatment Centers today at 866-594-8844 or contact us online to schedule an initial assessment.

How To Know If Your Loved One Needs Drug Addiction Treatment — and What To Do

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It can be difficult to know whether someone you love is struggling with drug abuse or not. However, there are common signs that are hard to ignore, especially as their dependence grows more severe. This article explores the top signs of drug addiction. Once you know what you’re looking for, you can help them find and begin an addiction treatment program in Sherman Oaks, CA. 

If They Isolate Themselves from Social Groups

The more severe someone’s substance use disorder, the more likely this drive will fuel their social behavior. At first, you may notice them neglecting to show up for social activities they once enjoyed, from casual dinners to special occasions. Over time, their social group may change entirely, shifting to those individuals who share and encourage drug abuse.

Many factors motivate this isolation, including the search for substances and the shame-induced fear of loved ones finding out about their use. You can mitigate the negative impact of shame by reminding them of your love, acceptance, and willingness to help them through whatever circumstances they may feel trapped in. The more connected they are to a support network, the more likely they are to seek drug addiction treatment.

If Their Mood or Behavior Changes Erratically

Common side effects of drug and alcohol addiction include emotional instability, paranoia, increased anxiety or depression, and mood swings. These symptoms significantly alter a person’s behavior, often making them appear completely different to their friends and family. The more severe the substance dependence, the more extreme these shifts are likely to be. You may also notice an increase in defensiveness and secretiveness. If so, an inpatient or outpatient treatment program can return them to their healthier self.

If They Fail to Meet Their Responsibilities

When a substance takes hold, it overshadows all other priorities in life. This includes school, work, and personal responsibilities that were once well and consistently managed. Suppose you notice a family or friend neglecting their duties to their partner, colleagues, or peers. In that case, they will likely need help from drug rehab centers nearby to prevent long-term career consequences or damage to interpersonal relationships. The longer they wait, the more intense this vicious cycle becomes, as anxiety from missed deadlines fuels substance abuse.

If Their Health Declines Significantly

One of the most concerning signs of drug abuse is a decline in health. Weight loss or weight gain, loss of appetite, and poor hygiene practices significantly deteriorate a person’s well-being and can often lead to lasting health challenges. Common addictions like cocaine abuse or meth use disorder can increase susceptibility to illness and even result in chronic diseases that impair quality of life and, in some cases, become fatal. If substance use is impacting their health, it may be time to begin addiction treatment in Sherman Oaks, CA.

If Their Sleep Patterns Become Irregular

Another health-related symptom of substance use disorder is irregular sleep patterns. A person may develop insomnia, which is the inability to fall or remain asleep. A restlessness can take over, preventing their body from resting and leading to trouble focusing, mood swings, anxiety, and a higher likelihood of catching an illness. This is especially common with stimulants like cocaine. However, drug addiction programs can help patients find rest and stability.

If you or someone you know is struggling with substance use disorder, Twin Town Treatment Centers can help. We provide comprehensive programs with reliable, evidence-backed methods that lead to long-term recovery. We cater to adults and adolescents with supreme care and individualized treatment plans. Call Twin Town Treatment Centers today at 866-594-8844 or contact us online to schedule an initial assessment.

What Happens in Alcohol Rehab? Everything You Need To Know Before Alcohol Addiction Treatment

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The more you know about what to expect from alcohol addiction treatment, the easier it will be to transition into your program. Knowledge also mitigates any anxiety or uncertainty you may feel before starting treatment. This article details the process for alcohol addiction treatment in Laguna Hills, CA, so that you can go into it with confidence!

You’ll Start with an Intake Session

Your initial intake session is designed to gather as much personal information as possible to understand your needs better. You’ll work with a recovery specialist who walks you through the initial assessment. At Twin Town Treatment Centers, we assess patients at different levels, including biological screens, substance use history, and psychological evaluations.

You may be asked to fill out a questionnaire or work with a doctor to complete a physical examination. This information is used to create individualized treatment plans that address your unique needs across three main categories: physical, mental, and emotional. This comprehensive approach ensures you receive everything necessary to cultivate a satisfying and long-term recovery lifestyle.

The Alcohol Detoxification Process

Alcohol detoxification is the first step in your addiction treatment program. Detoxification refers to the process, usually taking one to two weeks, where patients return to a healthy physical baseline. During detoxification, licensed staff will mitigate the pain and discomfort of withdrawals, reducing the risks of immediate termination of substance use.

As your body adjusts to the absence of alcohol, you may experience anxiety, mood swings, insomnia, headaches, nausea, and other symptoms. Our drug rehab center is designed to maximize comfort throughout this process, preventing relapse or injury. Staff will help you adjust physically and psychologically, preparing you to successfully learn and practice recovery tools.

While you may be tempted to begin alcohol detoxification before treatment, we advise patients in Laguna Hills, CA, to attend supervised detoxification. Medical experts understand how best to ease you through the process, using your personal information to provide more impactful care.

Individualized Therapy Plans

Once you’re beyond the worst of withdrawal symptoms, you’ll begin targeted treatment methods. These strategies address the triggers of alcohol addiction, including past trauma, negative thought cycles, and locations or relationships connected to past usage. There are many ways to confront these challenges; your experience depends on your needs and history.

Available therapies include:

  • Psychodynamic counseling
  • Dialectical behavioral therapy
  • Cognitive behavioral therapy
  • 12-step group programs
  • Individual mental health counseling

You won’t be alone in your addiction treatment programs. Group therapies, including the much-popularized 12-step program, connect patients with a support network. You’ll discuss and work through your alcohol addiction triggers in these group settings, which serve to reduce shame and social stigmas, empowering patients with an empathetic community. You can also choose between inpatient care and outpatient treatment programs, which offer greater flexibility and allow patients to maintain work responsibilities.

Cultivate a Sober Lifestyle at Twin Town Treatment Centers

Twin Town Treatment Centers has provided exceptional care to patients in Laguna Hills, CA, for over 25 years. Our comprehensive programs are individually tailored to each patient’s needs, with reliable, evidence-backed treatment methods. Licensed staff will help you develop recovery skills to prevent relapse and empower a healthy, happy lifestyle. We offer outpatient treatment programs that deliver meaningful treatment with a flexible schedule. If you or someone you know is struggling with alcohol addiction, call Twin Town Treatment Centers at 866-594-8844 or contact us online to schedule an appointment.

Common Reasons People Resist Drug Rehab — and How to Get Them Help

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While addiction treatment programs are a helpful resource for those with substance use disorder, many avoid joining a program. Here are a few common reasons why people resist addiction treatment and how you can help them get help in Torrance, CA.

Denial of the Problem

There are many reasons why patients minimize the severity of their substance use disorder, or, if they’ve accepted the problem, they may still deny the need for drug addiction treatment. Societal stigmas, internal shame, financial anxiety, concerns about the impact on their family and friends — all of these reasons and more motivate patients in Torrance, CA, to deny the need for drug rehab.

While acceptance can be a much harder step than many assume, it is the first critical step to achieving a fulfilling and healthy life in sobriety. Acknowledging substance use disorder requires significant vulnerability, and you can help loved ones take this step by reassuring them that it isn’t a personal failure and they won’t face it alone.

Financial Anxiety

Financial concerns are a primary obstacle for patients in Torrance, CA. Either they cannot take time away from work for inpatient programs, or they are concerned about the overall cost. However, many affordable options are available to reduce financial strain. These include payment plans, sliding-scale fees, and public programs like Medicare/Medicaid. Our outpatient treatment programs allow patients to access care while maintaining work responsibilities.

Many drug rehab centers work with insurance companies as in-network providers of addiction treatment. Check with your provider about which addiction treatment centers are covered under your insurance and the extent of their coverage. While you may be hesitant about the cost of treatment, addiction programs often cost a lot less in the long run than continued addiction and its repercussions.

An Insufficient Support System

Whether alcohol addiction or meth abuse, substance use disorder can be an isolating experience for many. Joining an addiction treatment program can increase this sense of isolation, especially if it is far from your home. However, remember that you’ll meet many like-minded people who empathize with your struggles and form new, robust communities through treatment. Twelve-step communities and group therapy sessions help with this.

If loved ones are afraid of loneliness in addiction treatment, remind them of these communities and reaffirm your place in their life. A reliable support network eases the anxiety about entering a drug rehab center and empowers loved ones through their recovery journey.

Shame and Social Stigma

Unfortunately, there is still a pervasive stigma in society for those struggling with substance use disorder. Media representations and a lack of information don’t help patients in Torrance, CA, confront their problem and admit to needing help. The internalized shame fueled by social stigmas can be a significant factor in prolonging substance abuse.

The best solution for shame and social stigmas is the understanding and patience you can give to a loved one. If they approach you, listen carefully and without judgment, leading with encouraging questions. Remind them that you won’t see them differently if they attend an addiction treatment program. Encouragement and understanding combat negative stereotypes and mitigate internalized stigmas.

Find Support at Twin Town Treatment Center

If you or someone you love is struggling with drug and alcohol addiction, Twin Town Treatment Centers offers a safe, judgment-free zone for healing. We carefully select and monitor staff to ensure the highest ethical standards are met. Our comprehensive care includes individualized treatment plans that enhance your chances of lasting recovery. Call us today at 866-594-8844 or contact us online to schedule an appointment.

Common Reasons People Resist Addiction Treatment — and How To Overcome Them

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There are many reasons why people avoid drug addiction treatment. However, it’s essential to recognize that by not seeking treatment, you may experience higher costs and worse health issues that dwarf the challenges of drug rehab. If you’re unsure about addiction treatment in West Hollywood, CA, this article provides helpful answers to some of the common doubts and anxieties faced by many with substance use disorder.

Fear of Financial Strain

One of the most common obstacles for patients who might otherwise seek treatment is the fear of financial strain. You may believe that the cost of drug addiction treatment is more than you can afford. However, there are many affordable options available, including in-network drug rehab facilities that offer full or partially covered addiction treatment programs.

Financial support options

  • Medicare/Medicaid
  • Insurance-covered treatments
  • Payment plans
  • Financial assistance programs
  • Sliding-scale fees

These options make it easy to access professional support for substance use disorders, backing a range of addiction treatments. Outpatient treatment programs also provide flexible scheduling so you can attend weekly sessions without taking time off work.

Poor Support Systems

It can seem daunting to confront your substance use disorder, especially since loneliness and isolation are common feelings at the start, especially if you’re attending a rehab treatment facility far from family. However, these feelings usually only last as long as it takes to form new bonds in treatment. 12-step programs assist with this, introducing you to a community of like-minded people who provide ongoing support.

Outpatient treatment programs also allow you to maintain connections with your friends and family throughout the process. The critical point is: You don’t have to face drug addiction treatment alone — whether staff or family, you will have support.

Shame from Social Stigmas

Shame is at the heart of many drug and alcohol addictions, pushing patients toward substance abuse due to feelings of embarrassment or fears of rejection. This obstacle prevents many from being honest with those around them, let alone seeking professional addiction treatment. It doesn’t help that addiction is often portrayed negatively in the media, creating unfair and unrealistic stigmas.

However, being honest with loved ones and embracing recovery can eliminate shame. You may be surprised at how supportive your loved ones are! Your openness can also serve to combat stigmas by presenting a different look at those with drug and alcohol addictions.

Lack of Accessibility

Drug rehab centers are often close to urban areas, leaving rural communities without access to the professionals, resources, and strategies they need. Since rural communities are spread out over large areas, this increases the distance between drug addiction facilities and those struggling with substance use disorder. Rural areas can also lack licensed specialists who can conduct addiction treatment programs effectively or prescribe medications.

Anxiety Around Change

Change is always scary. Those who’ve accustomed themselves to the highs and lows of substance use disorder often fear the uncertainties of a life in recovery more than their current challenges. Withdrawal symptoms further disincentivize those struggling with drug addiction, as they can be painful and frightening. 

While change is scary, it’s necessary for growth. Confronting your fears before and during addiction treatment will lead to a happier and healthier life in West Hollywood, CA. If you or someone you know is struggling with drug addiction, call Twin Town Treatment Centers today at 866-594-8844 or contact us online to schedule an appointment. We offer individualized treatments and a comfortable environment to help you achieve lasting sobriety!

Behavioral Therapy’s Role in Drug Addiction Treatment

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Substance use disorder is a multifaceted challenge with emotional, mental, and physical aspects. Luckily, behavioral therapy offers a reliable treatment for addressing the complexities of drug addiction. Many rehab facilities use this multifaceted treatment option to foster a healthy, happy, and stable recovery lifestyle in patients. Read on to learn how behavioral therapy can help with drug addiction in Torrance, CA.

What is Behavioral Therapy?

Behavioral therapy is a form of psychotherapy that helps patients change negative thoughts and actions, including those that fuel drug addiction. This method views all behaviors as learned, meaning they can be unlearned with the right approach and dedicated practice. It encourages patients struggling with drug and alcohol addiction to understand the relationship between their thoughts, emotions, and the resulting behavior.

When you can identify the link between negative thought patterns and negative behaviors, it’s easier to implement relapse prevention strategies. Patients in drug addiction treatment learn to avoid or resist negative triggers through healthy coping mechanisms.

Types of Behavioral Therapy

As with any branch of psychotherapy, there are many approaches to behavioral therapy. This variety allows practitioners to tailor addiction treatment programs to their needs.

Cognitive behavioral therapy

You’ve likely heard of cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT). It’s the most well-known and practiced branch of behavioral therapy, focusing on the relationship between thoughts/beliefs and behavior. Changing negative thought patterns can lead to improved behavior.

Applied behavioral analysis

This form of behavioral therapy is often used for those with autism spectrum disorders (ASD); however, it can be just as effective for those struggling with substance use disorders. Applied behavioral analysis breaks down negative behaviors into manageable chunks, allowing patients to work through seemingly complex problems more easily.

Dialectical behavioral therapy

Dialectical behavioral therapy (DBT) is similar to CBT, but it also includes strategies for emotional regulation and focuses on repairing interpersonal relationships. This approach reinforces the importance of social support networks to those working through drug addiction.

How Does Behavioral Therapy Help Addiction Recovery?

Behavioral therapy is a staple of many drug addiction treatments in Torrance, CA. Since substance abuse is a behavior rooted in mental and emotional triggers, behavioral therapy is perfectly designed to address this complex challenge.

Patients will learn to identify the situations, beliefs, and emotional triggers that lead to drug and alcohol addiction. Once aware of these triggers, patients work with professionals to develop relapse prevention strategies, often including healthier ways to cope with stress. You’ll learn communication skills, emotional regulation strategies, stress management, mindfulness, and other practices. You’ll also set realistic goals that serve as stepping stones toward stable sobriety.

The Effects of Behavioral Therapy on Mental Health

Drug addiction often coincides with and is fueled by mental health challenges like depression, anxiety, PTSD, and other disorders. The negative thoughts and emotions they cause often lead to coping through substance abuse. Behavioral therapy addresses these mental health challenges, reframing negative thoughts and providing healthy coping mechanisms for painful feelings. Beyond drug addiction treatment, behavioral therapy can improve overall well-being, helping patients cultivate a positive self-image and reducing the intensity of emotional distress.

Find Recovery Support at Twin Town Treatment Centers

If you or someone you love is struggling with drug or alcohol addiction, Twin Town Treatment Centers can help. We provide flexible outpatient treatment programs that work with your schedule, allowing patients to receive the necessary support without incurring stress from missed work. We offer cognitive behavioral therapy and other strategies to help patients foster a sober and satisfying lifestyle. Call Twin Town Treatment Centers today at 866-594-8844 or contact us online to schedule an initial assessment.

Tips for Overcoming Isolation & Loneliness in Alcohol Addiction Treatment

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Once you’ve achieved sobriety from alcohol addiction, you may still struggle with feelings of loneliness. There are many causes for this, including the damage done to relationships while trapped in the substance abuse cycle. Fortunately, there are many ways to overcome these feelings and find a robust social life beyond substance use. This article explores the top tips for nurturing a fulfilling community while in alcohol addiction treatment in Torrance, CA.

Attend Sober Events

Often, those who’ve recently attained stable sobriety avoid social events, believing alcohol consumption to be a central factor in any gathering. However, there are many sober social events that are fun, engaging, and filled with people who understand the recovery experience. Attending events with those who also struggle with alcohol addiction can reduce loneliness, empowering your sobriety. 

These events range from potlucks to game nights, allowing those in recovery to experience a vibrant social life without risking relapse. Many who attend sober social events discover how unnecessary alcohol is to have a good time. What matters is spending time with good people who make you feel seen and accepted.

Join a Support Group

Regular attendance at support group meetings is a great way to reduce feelings of isolation and find comfort, encouragement, and reassurance. Many groups prefer a peer-driven approach, creating a nonjudgmental environment that promotes emotional well-being. Alcohol addiction support groups also provide accountability, helping you maintain sobriety. Whether you’re recently sober or have been for a while, a support group is a great way to enhance your well-being.

Find Volunteer Opportunities

Finding local volunteer opportunities in Torrance, CA, can help you build new relationships and introduce fulfilling activities into your life. When you engage in activities aligned with your values alongside like-minded individuals, you’ll give yourself a sense of purpose that fuels personal satisfaction and reduces the likelihood of relapse. Shared values create strong bonds, which is why volunteering is so effective at building your community.

Volunteering also helps you develop new skills, which can be applied to future endeavors and build lasting self-esteem. Learning alongside others improves skill development, helping you achieve your goals and giving you a vibrant community to celebrate with when you do.

Rebuild Core Relationships

Meeting new people isn’t the only way to build a robust community of supportive people. You can also repair old relationships that may have been damaged during your journey with alcohol abuse. While it may seem scary, taking the initiative sends a strong message to previous friends and family members, helping you repair and move forward. Repairing relationships often leads to stronger bonds than before the rift and fuels self-forgiveness and acceptance.

You may also need to distance yourself from toxic relationships that trigger cravings. As difficult as this can sometimes be, it leaves room for healthy individuals to come into your life. Healing previous connections and establishing new ones will lead to a robust support community in Torrance, CA.

Pick Up New Hobbies

You may still feel lonely while you develop new relationships and heal old ones. Fortunately, there is no shortage of healthy hobbies you can pick up to keep your mind engaged, reduce negative feelings, and distance yourself from old activities connected to alcohol addiction. These include sports, dance, pottery, painting, hiking, and cooking classes. Explore different options until you find one you want to commit to long-term.

Start on the Road to Recovery Today

If you or someone you know is struggling with alcohol addiction, Twin Town Treatment Centers can help. We offer addiction treatment programs backed by evidence-based strategies and an individualized approach that targets your triggers and needs. We work with adults and adolescents, educating patients on relapse prevention strategies and connecting them to appropriate support groups. Call Twin Town Treatment Centers today at 866-594-8844 or contact us online to schedule an appointment in Torrance, CA.