Drug and alcohol problems do not have to control your life. Treatment can help you eliminate the devastating influence of alcohol and drugs. According to "The Minnesota Model" by Jerry Spicer, addiction is a disease that can be effectively treated. Although many addicts must learn to manage depression associated with starting treatment, identifying motivations for change and developing a relapse prevention plan as part of treatment and counseling can change your life.
Addiction Disease
According to the American Society of Addiction Medicine, or ASAM, treatment for alcohol and drug problems is most effective when understood as a treatable disease. Based on extensive research, ASAM has created valid and reliable assessment tools which allow clinicians to identify needed levels of care, ranging from inpatient detoxification to outpatient treatment. Typically, completing an ASAM assessment is the first and most vital step in treatment.
Effective Counseling
Effective counseling, as part of an overall treatment plan, can take several forms. In "A Guide to Treatment that Works" group counseling, several types of counseling are reviewed. In group counseling, the patient gains the advantage of positive peer support. When appropriate, family counseling can address not only the addictive problem, but the negative impact substance abuse is having on the family as a whole. Brief interventions that focus on providing precise feedback, accepting responsibility, advice, confrontation and empathy can be very cost-effective.
Depressive Symptoms
Withdrawal from alcohol and several other addictive substances often creates depressive symptoms. In "Treating Alcohol and Drug Problems in Psychotherapy Practice: Doing What Works" the authors warn that depressive symptoms are typical during early recovery. Any individual starting treatment should be aware of this risk and be proactive in managing these symptoms by getting counseling for these symptoms, along with alcohol and drug treatment. Counseling will include developing emotional coping skills as well as the possibility of referral for antidepressant medication as part of the treatment plan.
Motivation
According to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, extensive research demonstrates that motivation is key to effective treatment and counseling of alcohol and drug problems. Counseling, therefore, focuses on the client's strengths as opposed to weaknesses. Motivation is further enhanced by making all treatment and counseling efforts personalized to the client's needs. And, perhaps most important of all, counseling provides empathy and understanding instead of authoritarian "preaching."
Relapse Prevention
In "The Minnesota Model" Jerry Spicer further explains that the long-term goal of treatment is the development of an effective relapse prevention plan. Treatment eventually reaches the point where the client must manage the risk of relapse independently, or with support groups such as Alcoholics Anonymous or Narcotics Anonymous. The plan contains specific and personalized actions the client can take to manage cravings, seek support, and "get back on track" in the case of alcohol or drug use.
References
- "The Minnesota Model." Jerry Spicer; 1993
- "Treating Alcohol and Drug Problems in Psychotherapy Practice: Doing What Works." Arnold M. Washington & Joan E. Zweben; 2008
- "A Guide to Treatments That Work" (2nd Edition); P.E. Nathan & J.M. Gorman (Editors); 2002.
- "Enhancing Motivation for Change In Substance Abuse Treatment" U.S. Department of Health and Human Service; 2008.
