Drug addiction affects over 23.5 million people over the age of 12 according to the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration’s National Survey on Drug use and Health. These statistics are staggering, and it has become quite an epidemic within the recent couple of years. Drug addiction is a disease, although many people tend to think of it as a choice. This disease is uncontrollable much like many other illnesses, and it doesn’t just take over the mind, but also the body. The consequences are devastating to not only the person, but also their loved ones.
Usually there are only three ways out; jails, death, or institutions. There however is hope for those who are willing to change with drug addiction treatments. Out of most drug addiction treatments the most common is facilities that have both inpatient and outpatient options that have the same common goal, to detox all the drugs. El Paso Behavioral Health System is one of the many facilities out there. Regardless of exactly where you choose to go you’ll have to pick out a treatment plan that is right for you. For those who choose outpatient services, although not as effective in some cases, there is special treatment to target behavioral and emotional triggers that can cause the drug usage to get out of control. A plus to outpatient facilities is that they often work with families to make sure that they know how to cope with a drug user.
There is always the risk of relapse when dealing with such a difficult issue, so if you’re a heavy user the best idea is usually inpatient treatment. Inpatient treatment makes sure that you don’t have the risk of leaving the facilities and getting more of the drug of your choice. This is where the patient is admitted to a facility that is licensed to treat the disease. Not only are there doctors, but there is also counseling and emotional support from others going through the same issues. Although not all facility is treated equal, there is usually a 12-step program alongside with specialty services for those who need more personalized treatments, such as pregnant women and those who are mentally ill. If you choose to do an inpatient treatment center, you are slowly transitioned into a sober environment as to make sure you don’t relapse. As long as you get help you’ll be taking the right steps for a healthier life.