Drug Addiction Help: How To Help Someone Struggling With A Drug Problem

People of all ages suffer from drug problems and need drug addiction help.

Drug help can be provided through various rehabilitation programs like residential, outpatient and inpatient treatments. 

With so many Americans dealing with drug-related problems, the need for drug addiction help is at an all-time high.

As a matter of fact, according to a study conducted by the National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism (NIAAA), about 10% of people have gone through drug use disorders at some point in their lives. “Based on these findings, more than 23 million adults in the United States have struggled with problematic drug use,” said George F. Koob, Ph.D., NIAAA director. “

There is no doubt that there is a serious drug use problem in the country and that those people need help as pointed out researches.

S in this article, we will discuss drug problems and the different treatment options available to those needing drug help for their abuse, addiction or dependency issues.

Drug addiction help – The difference between drug abuse, addiction, and dependency

People start using drugs because of curiosity or they are under peer pressure in the hope of getting pleasure from them. This is known as drug abuse and it doesn’t begin automatically. 

There is a very fine line between drug abuse and drug addiction. Addiction is when you can’t stop taking drugs.

Drug addiction varies from drug to drug. Opioid painkillers have a higher risk of causing addiction as compared to others. 

The terms drug dependency and drug addiction are the two terms that are often used interchangeably.

Drug dependency is not the same as drug addiction. Drug dependency is when your brain & body need drugs to function normally.

The different signs that you need drug addiction help

A person shows some major signs when their drug addiction has gone out of control. 

First and foremost, their drug becomes their priority.

If their drug cravings are not met, they go through feelings of irritation and agitation.

A drug addict is typical tired and has bloodshot eyes.

Their physical health becomes a matter of concern depending upon the substance they are using.

There is a change in their daily routine.

Personal hygiene becomes the least of their priorities.

They are always in financial trouble. All these signs together drive them away from their personal as well as professional life.

It is highly recommended that drug addiction help from a profession is sought after noticing any of the above and other drug problem signs.

Important Statistics 

As per the studies that were done by the World Health Organization (WHO), 31 million people go through drug use disorders. 

According to the CDC Wonder in the year 2017, more than 70,200 deaths of Americans were reported from drug overdoses.

According to the world drug report conducted by UNODC, only 1 out of 7 people receive treatment for a drug use disorder.

As per a survey was done by the National Institute on Drug Abuse, 19.5 million females aged above the age of 18 have used illegal drugs in the year 2018.

Studies also found that about 75 percent of those dealing with drug problems reported not getting any form of treatment.

How do drug problems develope?

The pathway to addiction is different for every person. According to researchers, there are many stages of addiction. Here are those stages:

Initial stage

The initial contact with drugs might begin through the use of a prescribed drug. Painkillers often numb your mind from pain and make you high. This is what pushes people to use them more and more. No matter how it starts, it depends on an individual whether it will turn into an addiction or not.

Experimental stage 

Drug addiction begins with experimenting with drugs to get a pleasurable high. This might happen under the influence of peers or because of emotional turmoil. 

For some, it is just a one-time thing and they do not wish to continue it further. It can also lead to long-term use and start to become a health issue.

Regular recreational use stage 

Once people become regular users of drugs, there is a development of a pattern. Regular use doesn’t mean using drugs daily. The user may start under the influence of friends or acquaintances which might shift to continued use.

Problematic stage

This stage is also known as the risky use stage. This is the stage where a person starts to show a dangerous behavior pattern. The drug starts to affect the person physically and emotionally. Warning signs of addiction begin to appear during this stage.

Abuse stage

This is an advanced stage where drug use becomes a problem. It becomes impossible to stop the use of drugs. Addiction to a drug is often interlaced with drug dependency.

Dependency stage

This is the stage where your body and your mind crave the drugs. If a person stops using drugs, then it results in withdrawal symptoms. It results in an uncontrollable use of drugs which is the addiction stage.

Addiction stage

Drug abuse becomes compulsive at this point. A person cannot function normally without the use of drugs. People at this stage start to lose their loved ones and their career path.

It is important to understand that seeking professional help early is very important. Do not wait for the later stages of addiction before seeking drug help.

Know about the high functioning and non-functioning drug addict

There are two major types of drug addicts: the high-functioning addict & non-functioning addict. 

Being able to recognize both types will help one in seeking professional help on time.

High-functioning addicts

Understanding whether a person is an addict or not might be possible right away. Someone who can perform their everyday duties & tasks is characterized as high-functioning addicts. High-functioning addicts can convince others that their drug use is not a problem. Still, there are a few signs which differentiate them from normal people.

• The level of drug use – Every time they use drugs socially or with co-workers, it is uncontrollable. 
• Using drugs as a coping mechanism – Every time something chaotic or stressful happens, an addict uses drugs to cope with it. 
• Going through rough mornings – Every time a person takes drugs, the next morning proves to be a morning of suffering for them. They suffer from headaches, nausea or might have a bad mood.
• A loss of interest in everyday routines – An individual who becomes a high-functioning addict might lose interest in their favorite sports or hobbies. They might prefer doing drugs rather than indulging in other activities.

People who are high-functioning addicts do not realize that their addiction is a problem. Because of this, they do not feel the need to go through rehabilitation or treatments.

Non-functioning addicts

Within a matter of time, a high-functioning addict may turn into a non-functioning addict. The health of a non-functioning addict deteriorates to serious physical & mental health conditions. 

They may experience symptoms like depression & anxiety. Their social relationships and work performance may get affected. They are in such adverse conditions that they also go through poor financial conditions. 

This is the type of drug addict that most people are aware of people it is easier to see the signs.

The reality is that both non and high-functioning drug addicts need to get drug help for their drug issues. If you notice that your loved one or yourself is dealing with a drug problem please get help immediately.

Drug treatment process

As per the survey conducted by the National Institute on Drug Abuse, a drug treatment program is divided into four main steps:

First step – intake

An intake for an assessment is the first step that a patient undergoes in a drug help program.

This process is completed with the help of a team of doctors, psychologists, and counselors. Important queries regarding a person and their drug addiction are answered. According to the assessment, a patient is admitted into a particular program.

Maintaining strict confidentiality and privacy are part of the terms and conditions between a patient and the center. Financial conditions and mode of payments are also discussed during this stage.

Second step – detoxification

The step of detoxification is an important one to complete the journey of recovery. A person’s body is cleared of any drugs during this step.

Sudden restraining from drugs can result in several mental and physical challenges for a person.

Withdrawal symptoms are monitored at this stage. Medications are used to treat them. 

Third step – rehabilitation 

This is the step where someone learns how to deal with their addiction. The patient will go through therapies and classes such as relapse prevention etc.  This process may take a minimum of 30 days or might stretch to 90 days or longer. 

Fourth step – aftercare

When someone is done with drug rehabilitation, it is imperative that he or she continues with an aftercare program.

There are various support groups and communities that help an individual to transition into their normal life. 

Drug use relapse is common, so being part of a professional aftercare problem helps with reducing relapse and continuing one’s journey from drug issues.

You can get drug addiction help with traditional and holistic treatment approaches

When getting drug addiction help at a professional treatment facility, there are two different approaches used. Some centers will use a traditional approach while others will use a holistic approach.

While you have some facilities that will combine both drug treatment approaches.

The holistic treatment approach for a drug problem 

Incorporating a holistic approach is a continuing trend in various therapies for several ailments. Drug use problems and its treatment is no exception.

Holistic treatments are introduced in various rehabilitation centers in the US. 

The holistic approach focuses on the mind, body, and soul of a person dealing with drug problems.

This treatment includes techniques like yoga, meditation, massage therapy, use of herbal medicines, acupuncture and nutritional therapy.

A holistic approach leads to complete spiritual wellness addressing all the physical, emotional and spiritual issues.

Holistic therapies can treat pain, decrease tension, reduce stress & depression and improve a patient’s sleeping habits. Some of the techniques are known to calm and balance a person’s spirit.

The technique of reiki is also practiced to bring positive energy to the mind and soul. 

The traditional approach for drug help

The most popular approach for those seeking drug addiction help is the traditional treatment therapies.

Below are some of the programs included in a traditional drug treatment plan.

• Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) as part of drug abuse help

CBT is a part of the residential treatment plan. People who have struggled with drug use disorder tend to have negative and destructive thinking. A change in such types of thought processes is needed for complete well-being. CBT sessions are skills and strategies which are taught to the client to incorporate healthy changes in their life. 

• Family therapy as part of drug help

As per the National Council on Alcoholism and Drug Dependence, addiction is a disease. Addiction not only affects an individual but also affects the emotional well-being of the individual’s family. 

Family therapy programs provide an opportunity for a family to heal as a group. These sessions are conducted to create a positive healing effect on the whole family. 

The involvement of an individual’s family in their journey to recovery keeps them motivated. Such types of therapies help a patient to get rid of feelings of angst, fear, and stress.

Many underlying health issues like depression and anxiety are also dealt with during these therapy sessions.

• Relapse prevention therapy (RPT) drug help program

Dealing with drug addiction and recovery is not easy, but the real battle begins after the rehabilitation ends. Maintaining sobriety in the real world is quite difficult which might push a patient into a state of relapse.

Drug relapse prevention therapy programs are designed to keep an individual ready for a possible relapse. The three major steps behind this therapy are coping mechanisms, cognitive therapy interventions, and behavioral change techniques.

RPT gives a person the confidence to maintain self-control. This program comes under the aftercare treatment program. 

• Motivational enhancement therapy (MET) as part of drug abuse help

MET is a counseling program that is specifically designed to motivate a change from the inside.

Under these programs, addicted people are taught to work on their thoughts and behaviors.

They are taught to develop and express the emotion of empathy.

Most of the patients have resistance to drug abuse treatments because of their disappointing acts. MET helps such patients to overcome the negative feelings and feel motivated.

MET is often practiced as a part of other behavioral therapies like the 12-step facilitation program. 

• 12-step facilitation therapy (TSF) as part of drug help

These programs are designed to be used in outpatient rehabilitation programs. Patients are enrolled in 12-step help groups that practice abstinence from drugs.

The core principles of Narcotics Anonymous are followed in this kind of therapy.

Abstinence, surrender and active involvement are the three key elements that are incorporated under TSF.

This helps the patient to walk on a long-term recovery path. As a part of this process, a network of individuals with similar experiences is built for the patients.

People are not judged and are free to talk and listen.

Treatment setting options when getting professional drug addiction help

There are many treatment setting options for those dealing with drug problems.

The inpatient setting

Getting out of the state of addiction is quite difficult on your own. It is more likely to lead to a relapse in the initial stages.  

To avoid such situations, it is better to stay in a completely monitored environment.

An inpatient rehab program is a program where the patient stays at a rehabilitation center for the duration of the program.

The patient will eat, shower, sleep, engages in treatment classes and recreational activities in the facility.

The outpatient setting

There are people with drug abuse or use issues who do not wish to be away from work and family while undergoing their treatment. An outpatient rehabilitation program is an option for such people.

This drug help program settings can give people a chance to be in their home environment. 

The way it normally works is that the patient will go to the drug treatment facility for a scheduled time and after their session will then go back home or to work.

Note that there is no safe environment under these programs as the patient is in touch with the outside world regularly. This might result in a relapse faster. So, a patient and their family should always be prepared with a backup plan.  

Intensive outpatient and partial hospitalization programs are the other types of outpatient programs available for those seeking drug addiction help.

What it typically cost to get professional drug addiction help

The amount of money that is spent on a rehab center depends on the type of treatment a patient seeks.

Every center has its fee structure as per the medical care & amenities provided. 

• Inpatient treatment costs for drug addiction help

Inpatient treatments are for people who require full-time facilities. Some inpatient treatment centers may charge around $6,000 for a 30-day program. If it is stretched to 60-90 days, then the total cost may vary from $12,000 to $60,000. 

• Outpatient treatment costs for drug addiction help

Outpatient treatments are less expensive as compared to the inpatient ones. Many of the outpatient programs may cost around $5,000 for a 3-month program. The price range varies depending on the number of visits made by the patient to the center and other factors.

Factors affecting the cost of drug help programs 

• Type of center

An outpatient center will typically be less expensive than an inpatient one. A private rehab facility will also be more expensive compared to a government or a non-profit one.

• Treatments offered

Sometimes detoxification is not included in the rehab process. This lowers the cost of rehabilitation. Also, if a lot of medication is used during the rehab then the cost will be higher

• Amenities 

Amenities like spas, pools, and gyms do not come for free at a rehab center. People who are wealthy and prefer more luxurious services have to pay more for their treatments.

• Location

Location is also another factor that will affect how much one will pay when getting a professional drug help from an addiction center.

Risks if you don’t get drug help

You may be tempted not to get a drug addiction help because of the cost and/or other reasons. But doing so comes with a lot of risks to your health and social life.

There are various short-term as well as long-term health effects with abusing drugs.

The short-term effects can range from a change in appetite, weakness, increase in heart rate, blood pressure problems, overdose and even result in death.

Long-term effects can vary from lung & heart diseases, cancer, mental illnesses, HIV/AIDS and others.

Drug abuse and addiction can become a painful phenomenon.

People suffering through it may feel humiliated and vulnerable in sharing their experiences. But the earlier a person prepares for professional help, the better it is for them. 

Some people don’t recognize that their drug abuse is an issue. As a result, they do not wish to seek professional drug help.

This can prove to be harmful to the person as well as the people around them. 

We highly recommend that you get addiction help from a professional treatment center.

How to get someone with drug problems into treatment who is refusing

You may or may not be able to convince your loved ones to stop the usage of drugs.

When trying to convince someone to get drug use help and it fails, you may need to take action through an interventionist or court-ordered rehabilitation.

Professional Intervention

A formal intervention is a planned process that involves family members, friends, and a professional counselor or an intervention professional also known as an interventionist. 

The negative effects of addiction are discussed during this intervention.

Each person involved is given a specific set of instructions in case of a relapse. Most importantly, a structured treatment plan is offered with a proper goal and guideline. 

Court-ordered rehab

If a patient is still not ready to go into treatment, then another option is court-ordered treatment.

In certain criminal cases with court-ordered rehabilitation, a judge may choose to send a person to a center instead of sending them to jail.

A judge may also choose this option if a person takes extreme steps to overcome their cravings for drugs. Also, this step can be taken if it is the first time a person is committing an offense. 

Outside of criminal cases, a family may seek court-ordered rehabilitation by investigating and proving that their loved one requires such a step. 

Sometimes families don’t wish to wait for damaging situations to occur.

If they find their loved one in the state of addiction and he or she is refusing treatment then the court-ordered rehab is properly the best option, especially, when intervention fails.

Drug Addiction Help – How To Help Someone Struggling With A Drug Problem

The best way to help someone struggling with a drug problem is to get them professional help.

So If you are ready to get a drug addiction help for yourself or a loved one please contact the number on the website for a free no-obligation consultation.

When you call 866-579-8780 you will be connected with an admission counselor to discuss your drug problem treatment options.