Comprehensive Substance Use Disorder Treatment Programs
What Is Substance Use Disorder (SUD)?
Substance use disorder (SUD) is a complex disease that affects a person’s brain and behavior, leading to an inability to control their substance intake. Individuals with SUD may continue to use substances even when it interferes with their relationships, work, or health.
At Alpha Behavioral Health, we understand that seeking treatment when SUD is expected is vital to reaching sobriety, understanding the disorder, and working to cultivate lasting change.
How Prevalent Is Substance Use Disorder in the US?
According to the National Survey on Drug Use and Health, approximately 20.3 million Americans aged 12 and older struggled with substance use disorder in 2019. This includes addiction to drugs such as alcohol, prescription medications, and illegal substances. Further, the impact of substance use disorder extends beyond the individuals directly affected, influencing families, friends, and communities.
What Are the Signs and Symptoms of Substance Use Disorder?
If an individual is uncertain whether or not they are developing SUD, there are some key indicators that point to SUD. Recognizing these signs and symptoms is crucial in order to seek appropriate treatment. Some key signs and symptoms to look out for include:
- Developing a tolerance to the substance
- Experiencing withdrawal symptoms when not using substances
- Unsuccessful attempts to reduce substance use.
Additionally, there are behavioral signs such as:
- Neglecting or avoiding responsibilities
- Behavioral and mood changes
- Changes in relationships with friends and family
Physical symptoms may include:
- Fluctuations in weight
- Changes in sleep and eating patterns
- Experiencing tremors or slurred speech
How Does Substance Use Disorder Develop?
Substance use disorder can develop gradually over time due to a variety of complex factors, including:
Brain Chemistry
Substance abuse can have a detrimental impact on brain chemistry, leading to lasting changes in both structure and function. When an individual uses drugs or alcohol, these substances interact with the brain’s neurotransmitters, which are responsible for sending messages between neurons. Therefore, over time, consistent use can rewire the reward system within the brain to crave the substance instead of healthy alternatives.
Genetic Predisposition
Research has shown that genetic predisposition can play a significant role in an individual’s likelihood of developing substance abuse problems. Genes can impact a person’s sensitivity to the effects of substances, their ability to metabolize drugs or alcohol, and their likelihood of experiencing cravings or addictive behaviors.
Substance Use and Mental Health Conditions
Individuals struggling with SUD often have underlying mental health issues, and vice versa; this is often referred to as a dual diagnosis. While the relationship between SUD and mental health is complex, it is understood that one can exacerbate the other.
With Alpha Behavioral Health, our diagnosis process considers all avenues of one’s health, including family history. Therefore, once we have a complete understanding of the individual, we can create a treatment plan to meet their needs.
Access and Exposure to Substances
When individuals are in an environment with easy access to substances, they are more likely to use them and develop a substance abuse problem. This can happen through various means, including peer pressure, social environments, and the availability of substances in the community or at home.
Childhood Experiences That Contribute to Substance Abuse
Certain childhood experiences can also play a role in shaping an individual’s likelihood of developing substance abuse issues later in life. Adverse childhood experiences (ACEs), such as abuse, neglect, household dysfunction, and trauma, can have lasting effects on a person’s mental and emotional well-being. These experiences can lead to the development of maladaptive coping strategies, including substance use.
Treatment Programs at Alpha
At Alpha Behavioral Health, we are dedicated to providing each individual with a comprehensive treatment plan. Some of our most effective plans in addressing SUD include:
Intensive Outpatient Program (IOP)
Our intensive outpatient program (IOP) in Austin and Central Texas offers increased structure and oversight for individuals who need additional support.
Partial Hospitalization Programs (PHP)
Our PHP is a comprehensive care option that allows individuals the opportunity to navigate the challenges of mental health and addiction disorders while still being able to have time for their friends, families, school, and work responsibilities.
Comprehensive Therapy at Alpha Behavioral Health
In addition to our treatment programs, individuals will have access to therapeutic models that are evidence-based and proven effective in addressing SUD. These include:
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)
Our cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) programs offer individuals guidance in developing coping skills and strategies to address their issues and improve their overall well-being. This therapy is based on the idea that our thoughts, feelings, and behaviors are interconnected, and by changing our thoughts, we can change how we feel and behave in a healthier way.
Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT)
Our dialectical behavior therapy (DBT) programs emphasize developing skills to manage and regulate emotions.
EMDR
Eye movement desensitization and reprocessing (EMDR) is a therapeutic technique we utilize to address trauma and distressing experiences. EMDR involves a structured approach to therapy where the individual is guided to recall distressing memories while our therapist directs their eye movements or other forms of bilateral stimulation. This process helps the individual reprocess these memories in a way that reduces their emotional intensity and negative impact.
Mindfulness-Based Approach
Our mindfulness-based approach encourages individuals to acknowledge their thoughts and emotions without trying to change or suppress them. This helps in developing a greater sense of self-awareness and emotional resilience.
Family Therapy
Addiction is a disease that affects the whole family. Our expert team at Alpha Behavioral Health works with families to educate them about addiction. By understanding how addiction can disrupt family dynamics, families can learn how to manage the challenges together.
Motivational Interviewing (MI)
MI focuses on exploring and resolving uncertainty. With this approach, we help individuals find their own intrinsic motivation to change by engaging in a non-confrontational and empathetic conversation.
Experiential Therapy
Our experiential therapy programs encourage individuals to participate in activities such as art, music, drama, or movement. This allows clients to tap into their subconscious thoughts and emotions in a more direct and impactful way.
The Next Steps to Finding the Right Substance Use Disorder Treatment
Taking the next step to finding the right help can be intimidating. However, by continuing to educate oneself and reaching out to professionals such as the expert team at Alpha, individuals will have a clear understanding of what to expect throughout the treatment process. By taking these steps, an individual can pave the way for a successful recovery journey towards a healthier and fulfilling life.
When an individual or a loved one of an individual suspect’s SUD is apparent, then it is time to seek professional help. The professionals at Alpha are always here to help lend guidance and support, offering families assistance in understanding and finding the care they need. To learn more about our substance use disorder treatment or additional programs, please contact us today by calling (833) 257-4218.