What is a treatment plan for substance abuse? There are many different ways to go about serving an individual’s needs.
Substance abuse is a serious global problem that affects millions of people and their families. Identifying an effective treatment plan for substance abuse is crucial in assisting people in reclaiming their lives and breaking free from the cycle of addiction. Today, we explore a few factors to consider when designing a treatment plan and touch on evidence-based approaches that have a track record of success.
Individual Needs
Before you can answer the question, “What is a treatment plan for substance abuse?” you must understand that each person struggling with drug or alcohol abuse has unique circumstances, experiences, and underlying causes for their addiction. While many people share a similar history, a comprehensive in-person or online substance abuse counseling plan begins by knowing each person’s needs. During this assessment, it’s important to evaluate the type and severity of the substance use disorder and look at co-occurring mental health conditions, along with the individual’s personal goals and preferences.
A Holistic Approach
Online substance abuse counseling in Ontario, Canada, addresses the whole person. This is known as a holistic approach and touches on the physical, psychological, and social aspects of substance abuse. This type of approach recognizes that addiction isn’t only the result of individual choices. It also involves influencing factors, such as genetics, environment, and trauma. By addressing more than just drug addiction as the singular concern, treatment providers can offer more and help to create a treatment program that truly works.
Evidence-Based Treatments
Online substance abuse counseling is often not a standalone treatment. There are many ways that someone in Ontario, Canada, might receive help for their addiction. These include:
- Medical detox. For people with severe substance abuse/dependence, medically supervised detox is often the first and most important step. It involves safely managing withdrawal symptoms and reducing the presence of substances in the body in a controlled environment.
- Behavioral therapies. Cognitive-behavioral therapy, motivational interviewing, and contingency management are just a few of the most popular evidenced-based therapies used within an online substance abuse treatment plan.
- Medication-assisted treatment. Medication-assisted treatment combines the use of medications, such as methadone or buprenorphine, with behavioral therapies to treat opioid and alcohol use disorders. These medications help alleviate withdrawal symptoms, diminish cravings, and stabilize a person’s brain chemistry. This allows them to better focus on their recovery and abstinence.
- Supportive group therapy. Programs through services, such as Alcoholics Anonymous or Narcotics Anonymous, offer a supportive environment where people share their experiences and gain insights. The 12-step programs available through these resources put others in direct contact with peers who faced similar challenges.
Tailoring The Treatment Plan
To ensure effectiveness, treatment plans that include online substance abuse counseling in Ontario, Canada, must be tailored to suit the individual’s unique circumstances. Factors that treatment providers have to consider are the severity of addiction and co-occurring mental disorders, cultural background, and personal preferences.
Ultimately, recovery from substance abuse is a lifelong journey. Online substance abuse counseling combined with any of the above-noted treatments can help an individual suffering from substance abuse to find and retain sobriety for the long term.
Aegis Medical offers online opioid addiction treatment for those suffering from addiction. When you choose Aegis Medical, you can use your own pharmacy, benefit from our board-certified expertise, and receive treatment anywhere from a judgment-free practitioner whose sole purpose is to help you walk your recovery journey with confidence. Aegis Medical is PIPEDA compliant and accepts OHIP. Our team is ready to help you take the first step toward recovery today!