Arguably, addiction is not a sign of moral failure, character flaw, or weakness. This issue is a popular condition that affects numerous people of all socioeconomic groups, backgrounds, and ages. Substance and drug addiction is a chronic illness that changes the normal functioning and brain structure. Addiction changes the normal desires of your brain to the substance you are addicted to. When addicted, it becomes challenging for one to quit a drug as the addiction weakens your ability to manage impulses independently. Nevertheless, the good thing is that drug addiction can be managed through rehab sessions, which help you quit and recover from the drug fully. Malibu addiction treatment involves effective programs to help drug addicts conquer addiction and deal with the challenges they experience. 

Drug Addiction Diagnosis

Also referred to as substance use disorder, drug addiction diagnosis requires thorough evaluation and usually requires an assessment by a licensed drug or alcohol counselor, psychologist, or psychiatrist. Various lab tests, such as urine and blood tests, can be used to assess substance use. However, these tests are not a diagnostic test for addiction. 

Addiction Treatment

While there is no known cure for drug addiction, various treatment options can help one stay drug-free and overcome the addiction. Normally, your treatment will be based on the medical or mental health disorders involved and the drug used. It is crucial to have a long-term follow-up to prevent relapsing. 

Drug Addiction Treatment Programs

The treatment programs for drug addiction often offer the following.

• Levels of care and settings that differ based on your needs, like inpatient, residential, and outpatient programs
• There is a great focus on understanding the nature of addiction, preventing relapse, and becoming drug-free.
• Family, group, and individual therapy sessions

Behavior Therapy

Behavior therapy comes as part of the drug treatment program. This therapy includes a form of psychotherapy that can be conducted by a psychiatrist, psychologist, or licensed drug and alcohol counselor. Behavior therapy can be done with a group, individual, or family to help address various issues, such as strategies to avoid relapsing, tips on how to survive drug cravings, and how to deal with a relapse in case it occurs.  

Withdrawal Therapy

Also known as detox, withdrawal therapy or detoxification helps enable drug addicts to quit taking the substance as quickly and safely as possible. While some people can go through withdrawal therapy as outpatients, others require admission to a residential treatment center or a hospital. Different drugs will have different withdrawal symptoms; thus the difference in withdrawal therapy approaches. Withdrawal therapy can include substituting drugs with other substances like buprenorphine or methadone temporarily. Alternatively, your medical professional may advise you to reduce the drug intake gradually. 

Medicine as Part of Treatment

Sometimes, your healthcare provider may examine your situation and recommend medicine as part of your treatment. This is especially evident in opioid addiction, and the medicine helps reduce opioid cravings. Also, medicine can be administered to counter relapse.

Ongoing Treatment

Even though you have completed your treatment successfully, it is essential to have ongoing treatment and support. This is especially crucial to prevent one from relapsing. Follow-up care will primarily include attending frequent group sessions, periodic appointments with a counselor, and continuing in a self-help program.