Addiction is a complex condition that affects a person’s mind and body. Overcoming addiction isn’t just a matter of willpower. Instead, people must seek treatment to address the physical, emotional, and behavioral roots of substance use.
There are many different approaches to treating addiction. Evidence-based treatment programs use a combination of therapies backed by extensive research. Evidence-based therapies are safe and effective at addressing substance use disorder (SUD).
This article will explore evidence-based addiction treatment programs. You will learn:
What you will learn:
- What evidence-based treatment means
- The science involved in addiction, treatment, and recovery
- The benefits of evidence-based SUD treatment
- Where to find effective addiction and mental health care programs
If you or a loved one struggles with substance abuse or addiction, you are not alone. Find effective therapies and holistic support at Alamo Behavioral Health. Contact our treatment specialists to learn about our evidence-based practices or to schedule your first appointment.
What is Evidence-Based Treatment?
Evidence-based treatment programs implement therapies and treatment techniques. These therapies have been scientifically proven to be safe and effective through rigorous trials and research. Some examples of evidence-based treatments include:
- Medication management
- Behavioral therapies, such as motivational interviewing and cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT)
- Relapse prevention education
- Individual, group, and family therapy
These and other evidence-based treatment approaches can help to address the complex roots of addiction. They include strategies that treat the whole person–mind, body, and spirit.
These techniques can help people explore the roots of their substance use. They can also reduce withdrawal symptoms and help people develop new skills to prevent relapse later. Together, these therapies can help people work toward long-term recovery.
Addiction and Treatment: Understanding the Science
Evidence-based therapies are based on a scientific understanding of addiction and recovery. Here is a quick overview of the science behind substance use disorder (SUD).
How does addiction develop?
People may start using addictive substances for many reasons. Some might be curious about the effects or want to fit in with their peers. Others may want to use drugs or alcohol for their desirable effects.
Frequent drug use can change the brain and body. Some substances can alter the chemical or physical structure of the brain. Over time, people may develop tolerance to a substance.
Tolerance means that the body has adjusted to a specific dose of a drug. Over time, people may need to use more of a substance to get the effects they want.
After a period of abuse, people may develop physical dependence on drugs or alcohol. Those who develop physical dependence typically cannot choose to stop using it. Their body depends on a substance to function.
People with physical dependence typically require intensive alcohol or drug treatment programs to stop using them safely.
Detox and withdrawal
When a person with physical dependence suddenly stops using the addictive substance, they may experience withdrawal symptoms. Withdrawal symptoms can be uncomfortable or dangerous. In some cases, these symptoms may last for days, weeks, or months. Symptoms may include body aches, tremors, seizures, blood pressure changes, intense cravings, and more.
Many people relapse (begin using a substance again after a period of abstinence) to alleviate these withdrawal symptoms. This makes a complete detox very challenging without intensive treatment and support.
The science of recovery
Recovering from addiction can be very challenging. People must address the physical aspects of addiction, including:
- Managing withdrawal symptoms
- Navigating cravings and urges
- Addressing the physical damage caused by prolonged substance abuse
People must also learn new skills to manage challenges, prevent relapse, and reduce stress. Finally, people must also explore why they began using substances and develop new strategies to address unmet needs.
Evidence-based addiction treatment programs understand that addiction is not simply a physical condition. These comprehensive programs include treatment and support for the person living with addiction and their family members.
What are the Benefits of Evidence-Based Substance Abuse Treatment?
Evidence-based substance abuse treatment programs use safe, effective therapies to address SUD. Here are some of the benefits of this type of treatment.
Increased abstinence
The ultimate goal of addiction treatment programs is to increase abstinence from drugs and alcohol. Evidence-based SUD treatment programs use therapies proven to be effective at reducing the risk of complications and relapse.
Holistic treatment
Evidence-based SUD programs don’t treat only the physical aspects of addiction. Instead, they use a holistic approach to recovery support by offering mental health care, education, and other forms of support.
Safe care
Evidence-based treatment programs utilize only therapies that have been proven to be safe and effective. These therapies ensure safety during detox, stabilization, and beyond.
Contact the Alamo Behavioral Health specialists to learn more about our evidence-based therapies and treatment options. You may also contact us with questions or to schedule an intake appointment.
Find Treatment Now
If you or someone you love struggles with SUD or mental health conditions, you are not alone. Alamo Behavioral Health offers comprehensive treatment programs designed to address the complex roots of these conditions.
Contact our intake specialists to learn more about our therapies, programs, or professionals. Reach out with questions, to verify your insurance, or schedule your first appointment.
References:
- National Institute of Health (NIH): Evidence-based practices for substance use disorders
- National Association of Addiction Treatment Providers: Treatment Methods & Evidence-Based Practices
