Addiction is a multifaceted and misunderstood battle that millions of individuals face worldwide. Most of us understand the concept of addiction, but when it comes to the different types of addictions, things get more confusing. Alcohol and drugs are some of the most common addictions. However, the treatment of these two addictions is not the same.
There are some huge differences between alcohol and drug addiction. Both addictions need to be treated in their own different ways. At WisHope Recovery, we specialize in sustainable recovery solutions for individuals struggling with substance and co-occurring mental health disorders.
Let’s understand the differences and see how people need to be treated with proper care and support through addiction treatment in Wisconsin.
Alcohol Vs. Drug Addiction: The Basics
It is important to understand how alcohol addiction is different from drug addiction. That is how we can have a fair idea about how to go for the treatment. Although both involve dependency on drugs, their effects on the brain and body might be quite dissimilar. Alcoholism is a condition where one cannot stop drinking alcohol despite being aware of its harmful effects. The addict tends to experience withdrawal, cravings, and tolerance. This shows the need to consume increasing amounts of alcohol to feel the same effects over time.
Drug addiction can be linked to a range of substances, such as prescription medications, over-the-counter drugs, and illegal narcotics. Drug addiction can be like alcohol addiction. But it can be different from alcohol addiction psychologically. Unlike an alcohol addict, a drug addict consumes a range of drugs, which have varied effects on the brain.
Recognizing the symptoms
It is difficult to distinguish the symptoms of alcohol addiction from drug addiction. This is because both have strong desire, loss of control, and tolerance to the drug. But, the symptoms may vary.
For alcohol addiction, symptoms include:
. Drinking more than required
. Trying and failing to cut down on alcohol drinking
. Neglecting relationships, families and responsibilities
. Engaging in harmful activities like drunk driving
. More violent and aggressive behaviour
For drug addiction, symptoms include:
. Consuming drugs more than required or prescribed
. A strong urge to use drugs, even if it is harmful
. Neglecting family, friends and social activities
. Causing physical and psychological dependence
. Experiencing withdrawal symptoms when trying to quit
Some of the symptoms in both cases may be similar. However, specific types of addiction often dictate the treatment.
Treatment for alcohol addiction
Alcohol dependence should be treated in a multidimensional manner. The ideal kind of care is alcohol medication-assisted treatment (MAT). MAT is the combination of medication and therapy. This assists patients in abstaining from alcohol and staying sober in the long term. The medications act in various mechanisms to curb cravings and prevent relapse.
Individuals with severe addiction problems, residential drug treatment may be recommended to them. This approach offers a structured and immersive environment. Individuals live in a facility to receive 24/7 care and support. The environment is made in such a way that it is free from all kinds of temptations and distractions. This helps individuals to not relapse and solely focus on treatment and recovery.
Apart from residential drug treatment, outpatient drug treatment is also a better option against alcohol addiction. Outpatient treatment allows patients to remain at home. But this allows them to visit therapy sessions and counseling sessions regularly. Outpatient programs would be suitable for those who have a healthy support system at home. This is also helpful for those who have less severe cases of alcohol addiction.
One of the most important elements of alcohol treatment is therapy. Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) is one of the most common therapies for alcohol addiction. This type of therapy helps the individual identify their thought patterns and behaviors leading to alcohol use. This also helps to learn healthy coping mechanisms that can replace bad ones.
Treatment to drug addiction
Drug addiction treatment also forms a combination of therapy and medication. The kinds of drugs or substances consumed will determine the type of medication and therapy used in dealing with the addiction.
For example, individuals who are addicted to opioids are sometimes treated with medications. This helps the individuals to reduce cravings and withdrawal symptoms. This provides a better chance of getting rid of the addiction. Also, residential drug rehabilitation works quite effectively in recovering from opioid addiction.
Cocaine and methamphetamine addicts generally do not have medications available for the treatment. These substances do not induce physical dependency in the same manner as alcohol or opioids do. Outpatient drug treatment programs, along with therap,y can help the addict. It will help to learn coping skills and manage patients’ needs for either substance. Therapy, especially cognitive-behavioral therapy, is a gem in the treatment of all sorts of drug addiction.
Importance of Personalised Treatment Programs
When it comes to addiction treatment in Wisconsin, one of the most critical aspects of care is a personalized treatment program. Journeys to recovery differ from person to person. Treatment plans must be designed to meet their specific needs. The treatment plan will depend on factors such as the severity of an addiction. It also depends upon the mental health and life situation of the individual.
Some individuals might need intense care in residential drug treatment. But some patients could find outpatient drug treatment more suitable. The aim is to help individuals to stop addiction and live a peaceful, fulfilling life.
Why choose a professional treatment center?
To ensure a successful recovery. It is crucial to opt for a professional treatment center for alcohol and drug addiction. Treatment centers, like those in Wisconsin, offer patients guidance from qualified professionals. These addiction treatment centers offer many services, including medication-assisted treatment, therapy, and detoxification. They also offer other family counseling services to promote holistic treatment.
The pace of an individual’s recovery depends upon the professionalism of the treatment centers. Treatment centers provide an environment for the individuals, free from distractions or temptations. Moreover, these treatment centers also offer aftercare services to the patients. This helps patients to live a sober and peaceful life in the long term.
Conclusion
Whether a person is suffering from alcohol addiction or drug addiction, a good understanding of the treatment is essential. This will help in finding the right approach for the treatment. Alcohol and drug addictions always need extensive, comprehensive, and individualized care. Developing the right treatment plan depends on various factors. These factors include the severity of the addiction, the nature of the substances involved, and the individual’s needs. If you’re looking for addiction recovery centers in Wisconsin, many of them will be available to guide you through the process. There are a number of opportunities for rehab. This includes residential drug treatment, outpatient drug treatment, and alcohol medication-assisted treatment. For info on how to start your recovery process, check out the Wisconsin Hope Recovery.