Detox Is Just the Beginning
Statistics show that drug abuse and alcoholism have been common in recent decades, affecting more than half the population. Each case affects not just the user, but his or her entire family unit as well. Many families find themselves affected by addiction without being very well equipped to deal with it. A major reason for families to delay addressing addiction problems is lack of knowledge about when and how to intervene effectively. There are medical and legal issues that affect each individual differently, so addiction can be a challenge for many families to navigate. Attempting to force a change is scary when you don’t have any idea what to expect. This information is intended to summarize some of the things families see an addict go through and how to make a long-term behavior change.
Detox refers to the most clinical of biological processes. It also initiates a social and emotional process during which an individual and a family will have to learn how to operate without the presence of the toxin. Families where alcohol has been abused for a long time will not transition smoothly into an alcohol-free family. The impact of the alcoholic’s behavior will be felt for years to come, long after the alcoholic ceases to feel physical symptoms of withdrawal.
Different kinds of addicts suffer different withdrawal experiences during detox. Detoxing from some drugs can make the user violently ill, and a cold turkey end to long-term drinking can lead to high anxiety and shakiness. Appropriate medical support is critically important during detoxification in order to prevent dehydration and other complications that can put health in further jeopardy. Social and emotional support is critical to maximizing the chances for successful recovery.
Beyond detox, a new journey begins. New habits must be formed. Old habits must be replaced. Journaling and talk therapy can play a big role in helping former addicts develop new, healthier techniques for coping with stress and managing emotional triggers. A variety of residential and part-time behavioral medicine programs are covered by health insurance. These programs help the patient create an individualized, achievable plan for functioning successfully after treatment. After-care might also be in the form of individual or group therapy. For many in recovery, ending relationships with certain people and developing healthy new relationships are important steps in this process.
Doctors, nurses and social workers can be good sources for information or referrals for families seeking guidance about how to deal with loved ones struggling with drugs or alcohol. Some families find help through clergy. Regardless of how difficult, it is important to pursue help. Treating the addiction as a medical problem heals many families. It is not necessary to wait for the addict to be ready to accept help. Other family members can benefit from individual or group counseling if they are struggling with their own relationships and boundaries with an addict.
http://EzineArticles.com/8661908
https://www.youtube.com/user/wikiDrug
http://youtu.be/Hv-fjpXyIKI
Comments