One of the most difficult drugs of abuse to break free from is heroin. The drug is highly addictive and even persons that have been clean for months or years easily find themselves back where they started. A great deal of self-motivation, discipline and a sincere desire to quit are what help most people to remain clean. There are several modalities of treatment for heroin addiction that one may consider.
The first step in the treatment process is known a withdrawal or detoxification. For many years this period has remained the most intensive and most uncomfortable for recovering addicts. During detox, the patient is managed within a rehabilitation center for few days. This is ensure that they get readily available help when they start exhibiting withdrawal symptoms. Such include a flu-like illnesses, chills, goose bumps, twitching of legs, generalized muscle and joint pains, nausea and diarrhea.
A drug known as methadone (or an alternative) will be prescribed to manage these symptoms as soon as they set in. Methadone will then be gradually tapered off as treatment continues. The other alternatives that can be used in place of methadone include buprenorphine and naltrexone. The severity of the withdrawal symptoms greatly vary from one person to another depending on their level of drug use.
The next step is termed the therapy step. The patient is made to attend a number of classes and therapeutic sessions all meant to increase their ability to cope. They get an opportunity to meet their counselors as well as to interact with other recovering addicts. The patients act as a source of support for each other. The most ideal place of having this step is within an inpatient facility where the patient cannot access the heroin and is also away from most of the trigger factors.
Modern treatment centers take the form of a residential home where the client gets an opportunity to take part in physical activities such as biking, swimming, hiking, running and so on. Physical exercise in this setting is an excellent stress reliever. Other coping techniques that may be adopted include music, drama, deep breathing, medication and art among others.
The third stage of treatment is the maintenance step. This step commences once the client returns home. It consists of follow up care that is offered on an outpatient basis. Important components of maintenance include attending regular Narcotic Anonymous as well as individual therapy. Family therapy helps to integrate the former addict back into the unit and builds understanding among all the players involved. The duration of maintenance varies from one individual to another.
Cognitive behavior therapy (CBT) is the commonest type of therapy that is given to these addicts and others who abuse different substances. It is a therapy in which the patient works with the therapist and helps identify thought processes and behavioral patterns that may be causing their addiction. Once they have done that, they help in the suggestion of behavior modifications that will make them better persons.
A multi-prolonged approach is needed to effectively overcome heroin addiction. It is wrong to rely on drugs alone. Most importantly, therapy should be individualized for each patient depending on their prevailing circumstances. The family should be available to offer support, financially, spiritually, morally and psychologically. Regular evaluation will inform the team whether they are on the right track or if any adjustments are needed.
The first step in the treatment process is known a withdrawal or detoxification. For many years this period has remained the most intensive and most uncomfortable for recovering addicts. During detox, the patient is managed within a rehabilitation center for few days. This is ensure that they get readily available help when they start exhibiting withdrawal symptoms. Such include a flu-like illnesses, chills, goose bumps, twitching of legs, generalized muscle and joint pains, nausea and diarrhea.
A drug known as methadone (or an alternative) will be prescribed to manage these symptoms as soon as they set in. Methadone will then be gradually tapered off as treatment continues. The other alternatives that can be used in place of methadone include buprenorphine and naltrexone. The severity of the withdrawal symptoms greatly vary from one person to another depending on their level of drug use.
The next step is termed the therapy step. The patient is made to attend a number of classes and therapeutic sessions all meant to increase their ability to cope. They get an opportunity to meet their counselors as well as to interact with other recovering addicts. The patients act as a source of support for each other. The most ideal place of having this step is within an inpatient facility where the patient cannot access the heroin and is also away from most of the trigger factors.
Modern treatment centers take the form of a residential home where the client gets an opportunity to take part in physical activities such as biking, swimming, hiking, running and so on. Physical exercise in this setting is an excellent stress reliever. Other coping techniques that may be adopted include music, drama, deep breathing, medication and art among others.
The third stage of treatment is the maintenance step. This step commences once the client returns home. It consists of follow up care that is offered on an outpatient basis. Important components of maintenance include attending regular Narcotic Anonymous as well as individual therapy. Family therapy helps to integrate the former addict back into the unit and builds understanding among all the players involved. The duration of maintenance varies from one individual to another.
Cognitive behavior therapy (CBT) is the commonest type of therapy that is given to these addicts and others who abuse different substances. It is a therapy in which the patient works with the therapist and helps identify thought processes and behavioral patterns that may be causing their addiction. Once they have done that, they help in the suggestion of behavior modifications that will make them better persons.
A multi-prolonged approach is needed to effectively overcome heroin addiction. It is wrong to rely on drugs alone. Most importantly, therapy should be individualized for each patient depending on their prevailing circumstances. The family should be available to offer support, financially, spiritually, morally and psychologically. Regular evaluation will inform the team whether they are on the right track or if any adjustments are needed.
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You can find a detailed overview of the advantages of receiving treatment for heroin addiction and more info about a well-respected therapist at http://foundationmedicalgroup.org right now.
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