Recovery goals for individuals struggling with addiction and substance abuse are rarely black and white. This is due to the complexity of the disease, varied treatment options and the patient’s individual needs. Addiction seldom occurs in isolation, but is rather connected to an individual’s emotional, social and metal functioning. As such, a patient’s recovery goals are generally multi-layered; addressing social, mental health and substance issues. In this entry we will discuss individualized programs for recovery in an effort to enlighten and inform.
Counseling In Addiction Recovery
One of the major goals of substance abuse recovery is involvement within some type of therapy or counseling. A variety of treatments are available, and personal goals may vary based on the treatment selected. Perhaps the most common form of therapy takes place in a group setting, allowing participants to share their struggles while supporting the their fellow patients who are struggling. Some programs, such as AA, are ongoing. In these programs, goals are completed in conjunction with a set of outlined steps. Other programs are limited, concluding only once the patient has maintained a designated period of abstinence and gained greater insight into their addiction.
Medication During Recovery
Recovery goals pertaining to medication are often related to either withdrawal or relapse prevention. The withdrawal process takes place when a physiologically addicted individual quits using the substance in question. When this occurs, the patient’s body often experiences a variety of symptoms. The goal of medication during the withdrawal process is to alleviate these symptoms (anxiety, shakes, sweats, etc.).
Though not provided through The Dunes East Hampton, additional medications can be utilized to help patients ensure a long and healthy abstinence period. For example, an individual struggling with an opiate addiction may be placed on methadone, which serves to relieve withdrawal symptoms and alleviate cravings.
How Psychoeducation Is Vital To Recovery
Psychoeducation is a vital aspect of the recovery process. The goals surrounding this area generally involve helping the patient understand the biological impact of addiction, as well as the treatment program as a whole. In addition, psychoeducation provides patients with clarity in regard to their own behavioral, emotional and mental health. Psychoeducation goals may include education for those in treatment as well as friends and family members of the addict.
Goals For Dual Diagnosis Treatment
Those who struggle with both mental health problems and addiction are diagnosed with dual diagnosis, meaning they must receive treatment for both substance abuse and mental health issues. As such, individuals with dual diagnosis benefit from goals that include treatment in both areas. Self-medication is common for those struggling with a dual diagnosis. That is, they may be using a substance to address psychological distress specific to a particular disorder. As such, goals for those with dual diagnosis generally include determining whether there is a correlation between addiction and mental health issues and finding the right medications to alleviate the mental illness symptoms.
