Delaware Federation of Families for Children's Mental Health

It’s never easy to see someone going through addiction. Substance abuse can severely impact an individual’s physical and emotional health, as well as disrupt their relationships and career. Addiction is not only harmful to the addict but also their loved ones, their community, and society as a whole. The state of Delaware has seen a significant increase in drug addiction over the past decade, leaving individuals with the responsibility of finding addiction treatment in Dover, Delaware.The first and perhaps most crucial step towards addiction treatment is acknowledging the problem. Addiction is a chronic disease that requires a long-term commitment to recovery. It is not simply a matter of willpower or choice. Addiction can be the result of various environmental factors, childhood trauma, or genetics. According to the National Institute on Drug Abuse, research has shown that people who suffer from addiction often have underlying issues that lead to or exacerbate their substance abuse. That’s why inpatient addiction treatment in Dover, Delaware involves extensive and individualized assessment to determine the particular needs of each patient.Physical detoxification is the first step in most addiction treatment programs, where patients undergo medically supervised detox, which is essential in managing symptoms of withdrawal safely. Heroin, opioids, and alcohol are examples of substances that can cause physical withdrawal symptoms ranging from mild to severe, and it is often the fear of these withdrawal symptoms that keep addicts from seeking help. Detox does not cure addiction but rather helps ease the physical symptoms, making it easier to address the underlying psychological and social issues, which are essential in creating long-term recovery.Individual or group therapy sessions are core components of addiction treatment, which provides patients with the tools to understand and manage triggers, which can cause the desire to abuse substances. Patients also work with a therapist to address depression or anxiety disorders, which often co-occur with addiction. Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) is one of the most used types of therapy in addiction treatment, where patients work through negative thought patterns and replace them with healthy coping skills. Motivational Interviewing (MI), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), and group counseling sessions are other forms of therapy used to address substance abuse disorders.Addiction treatment in Dover, Delaware, also involves educating patients about the effects of substance misuse to discourage relapse. Patients learn how addiction affects different parts of the body, including the brain, which is essential in understanding the long-term effects of substance abuse on their health. Patients also learn about the importance of self-care, mindfulness, and stress management techniques to promote long-term recovery. Family therapy sessions are also available to help repair broken relationships and help family members learn more about addiction and how to support their loved one in recovery.As mentioned earlier, addiction is a chronic disease that requires a lifetime commitment to maintaining sobriety. Treatment doesn’t end when a patient leaves the center. Aftercare is essential in preventing relapse and for establishing long-term recovery. Patients may continue treatment through an outpatient program that can include ongoing therapy, support groups, and relapse prevention strategies. For some individuals, sober living, halfway houses, or transitional housing is beneficial in providing a structured environment while they transition back to their lives.In conclusion, addiction treatment in Dover, Delaware, involves a multi-disciplinary approach, which includes detoxification, therapy, education, and aftercare, to provide individuals with the best chance at achieving long-term recovery. Finding the right addiction treatment center in Dover, Delaware, can be challenging, but with research and a willingness to seek help, it can be a life-changing decision for the addicted individual and their loved ones. It’s essential to remember that addiction is a disease that requires extensive support, patience, and understanding to overcome.