Substance abuse is treatable. Depending on the severity of the abuse and the substance(s) used, different levels of care may be necessary. Individual counseling from a Utah therapist is a vital treatment option amongst a constellation of treatment modalities including support and recovery groups, detox facilities, and other intensive programs. Because of the medical implications of substance use, it is always advisable to maintain an ongoing relationship with a physician who is overseeing one’s reduced intake of a substance. Even withdrawing from alcohol after heavy and prolonged use can have serious risks, including an increased risk of seizure. A discussion with a qualified therapist in Utah can help determine an appropriate level of care and an effective treatment plan.
WHAT ARE THE SIGNS OF SUBSTANCE ABUSE?
The first step in treating substance abuse is to recognize that it is an issue. This is oftentimes a very difficult part of recovery. Some of the prominent warning signs of substance abuse include:
- A pressing desire to use the drug regularly — daily or even several times a day
- Using a substance to block thoughts or impulses
- Diminished sensitivity to the substance over time
- Taking larger amounts of the drug over a longer period of time than you intended
- Making it a priority to have a supply of the drug on hand
- Continuing to buy the drug despite the inability to pay for it comfortably
- Failing to live up to other pressing responsibilities
- Continuation of use despite clear physical or psychological harm
- Going to great lengths to obtain the substance
- Driving or engaging in other potentially harmful activities while under the influence
- Having a desire to stop using but finding yourself unable
- Having symptoms of withdrawal when use stops
As you can see, some of these signs are physiological while some are psychological. Substance abuse is visible both physically and in the behaviors and actions of an individual. Our Utah therapists are experienced in working with individuals to resolve the root causes of abuse in order to modify harmful behavioral patterns.
WHAT ARE THE CAUSES OF SUBSTANCE ABUSE?
There are many potential causes for substance abuse, but some of the primary causes include:
- Mental health disorder- In most cases, substance abuse is the result of an underlying mental health condition. Depression, anxiety and certain personality disorders are very common among those who abuse substances.
- Isolation- Social anxieties, as well as feelings of loneliness, can inspire substance abuse.
- Peer pressure- An individual’s environment usually has a considerable bearing on their choices. If an individual is frequently in the presence of drug users or feels pressured to engage, the likelihood of abuse is much higher.
- Genetics- Certain behaviors and susceptibilities with regards to substance abuse have proven to be hereditary. If one’s parents suffered from addiction, the children may be more likely to become addicted themselves.
- Early use- It is often true that the earlier substance abuse begins, the more difficult it is to break the cycle. Early use can often indicate a combination of several causes.
Again, substance abuse most often occurs alongside another mental health concern. Oftentimes, people drink or take drugs to cope with depression, anxiety, and other stressors. Thus, it is crucial in the treatment of substance abuse to address the underlying concern that is leading someone to abuse a substance. Our Utah therapists are focused on resolving them.
WHAT THERAPY TREATMENT METHODS ARE USED?
Areas of focus in treatment may include building new lifestyles, relationships, and behavioral patterns to help avoid previous triggers and opportunities that led someone to use a substance. Effective modalities include:
Talk to a Utah therapist today if you or someone you love is suffering from substance abuse. We have experienced therapists in Draper and Bluffdale locations carrying a wealth of expertise in addressing and treating mental health concerns.
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