What Is Evidence-Based Treatment for Substance Use Disorder?
Addiction to substances such as drugs and alcohol looks different for different individuals. However, most individuals experience a range of co-occurring mental and physical ailments. To tackle these problems efficiently, healthcare experts opt for evidence-based treatment plans.
Evidence-based treatment plans focus on a structured program that makes rehabilitation more effective. These programs also ensure lifelong sobriety by focusing on the complete mental, physical, and psychological transformation of the individual. For instance, the Refine Recovery services and specialties are backed by years of research and evidence, making addiction treatment more effective and substantial. The following article takes a look at what evidence-based treatment for substance use disorder is.
What Does Evidence-Based Treatment for Substance Use Disorder Mean?
Evidence-based treatment for substance use disorder is a medical approach that is based on years of research, systematic investigation, and scientific studies. This form of treatment is most effective because a large amount of data and research backs it.
Evidence-based treatment is also cost-effective and provides lifelong sobriety to the patient. This approach consists of different therapies and medications supported by years of experiments and studies. It also focuses on creating a lifestyle based on self-care and nurturing a positive attitude towards life. Now, the real question is, what are the different types of evidence-based treatment offered by the treatment facility? Let us find out in the sections below.
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy
CBT is a form of psychotherapy based on one-on-one counseling sessions with a behavioral therapist. The therapy focuses on reshaping the individual's thought process. Therefore, instead of focusing on how the person can overcome addiction, it focuses on the underlying reason for the addiction.
The therapy is effective because it goes to the root cause of the problem. The therapist tries to figure out why the person is addicted to the substance and how they can reform their entire lifestyle. For instance, the therapist focuses on managing the symptoms, developing coping mechanisms, and overcoming the emotional trauma that is related to substance use disorders.
Dialectical Behavioral Therapy
DBT was developed in the 1980s as part of cognitive behavioral therapy. DBT is a talk therapy that focuses on behavioral skill development, including managing emotions, resolving conflicts, managing stress, and developing relationships. In DBT, the person is provided with a safe space to speak their heart out without judgment. Based on this, the therapist offers tailored solutions.
Mental illnesses are a part of substance use disorder. So, when the patient is suffering from a co-occurring mental illness, the therapist will help them reform their cognitive capabilities and ensure both mental and physical wellness.
Dialectical behavioral therapy focuses on incorporating four key elements:
Mindfulness: Being present in the moment rather than recalling past experiences.
Distress tolerance: Coping with the negative emotions that are associated with substance use disorder.
Emotion regulation: Learning to regulate and manage problematic emotions.
Interpersonal relationships: Respecting oneself and having an assertive opinion.
Counselling
This is another great mechanism that allows the patient to express themselves freely. There are two types of counseling:
Individual counseling:
In this approach, you speak with your counselor in a one-on-one setting. This allows the counselor to understand the cause of the problem and find effective solutions.
Group counseling:
Group counseling is a combined therapy session in which individuals who have undergone a similar experience come together to share their experiences and find solutions. This makes the patient feel they are not alone in their journey towards recovery and can learn from the experiences of the other participants.
Family Therapy
Our family plays a very important role in our healing journey. This evidence-based therapy is based on numerous studies that showcase that complete involvement and support of the family and loved ones help the addict overcome substance abuse successfully.
In this approach, the family aims to come together to help the patient and find a solution to create a positive and nurturing environment at home that provides the patient with a safe space.
Medication
Along with the different therapies, some FDA-approved drugs have also been found to be helpful in managing the withdrawal symptoms that come with substance use disorder. Drugs such as Disulfiram work great to manage withdrawal symptoms such as vomiting, nausea, and headache. Methadone is an opioid agonist medication that is great for opioid use. Along with this, there are numerous other medicines as well that help manage the withdrawal symptoms that come with practicing complete abstinence.
Conclusion
The therapies mentioned above are based on years of research and studies. Hence, incorporating them in the healing journey of an addict will allow them to overcome substance use. Remember that you are not alone in this journey and that help is right around the corner. All you need to do is ask for it!