Drug addiction treatment includes several stages: detoxification, rehabilitation, post-rehabilitation and socialization. Only a full range of treatment measures will help bring the addict into stable and long-term remission. At the same time, it is important to observe the principles of continuity and phasing.
Recovery stage by stage
Stage of detoxification, relief from withdrawal symptoms, relief of main complaints
The essence of the first stage of therapy is to cleanse the body of toxic drugs and their products. Also, with a sharp cessation of psychoactive substances use, a withdrawal syndrome occurs, which pass with severe somatic and mental symptoms. In this case, measures will be aimed at relieving withdrawal symptoms or stopping abstinent sindroms. In addition to detoxification, the drug addict’s body needs restoration, so a narcologist can prescribe medications that support the functioning of the heart, liver and other internal organs. Detoxification is preferably carried out in a hospital, because severe intoxication and withdrawal symptoms can lead to life-threatening conditions.
Drug rehabilitation programs
When the acute period is stopped and severe physical symptoms are relieved, treatment moves to the rehabilitation stage. It involves working with the psyche: emotions, feelings, attitudes, behavior patterns, self-esteem. Rehabilitation can be carried out through individual and group sessions with a psychotherapist or clinical psychologist. The stage also includes occupational therapy, creativity, sports, active recreation and special rehabilitation programs, which we will discuss below.
Socialization
After negative attitudes have been changed and new patterns of behavior have been formed, the rehabilitator must learn to live soberly in society. After all, with addiction, he first of all loses contact with society. With the help of psychotherapeutic sessions and classes in special programs, the addict learns to interact with the people around him. By the way, the absence of a full stage of post-rehabilitation and socialization sharply increases the risk of relapse and relapse into drug addiction.
What special programs are used
“12 steps”
One of the most well-known special programs used in post-rehabilitation care for drug addicts is the 12-step program. It is based on the ideas of mutual assistance and self-help. Program participants meet regularly, share their experiences and support each other in the fight against drugs.
Minnesota model
Another widely used program is the Minnesota Model. It involves a long stay of the patient in special institutions, where, in addition to psychotherapy, work and social activities are organized, and practical skills for adapting to normal life are developed.
Marshak method
The method is a therapeutic program based on various types of creativity: music, dance, painting, stage acting. This approach helps drug addicts express their emotions and develop creativity.
Daytop
The program is based on involving drug addicts in active participation in various jobs and activities. This helps them quit using drugs and do something useful.
Therapeutic communities
Therapeutic communities are special organizations where drug addicts live and work together for the purpose of shared recovery. Conditions are created for socialization, development of teamwork skills and strengthening of the individual.
What does post-rehabilitation support mean?
Employment of a former drug addict
With the support of specialists, former drug addicts can choose a suitable profession, get an education and solve work problems. Employment helps them recover and find new meaning in life.
Return to normal environment
Post-rehabilitation support is also aimed at returning the former drug addict to a normal social environment. Specialists help to establish communication with family and friends, as well as move on to normal educational and professional activities.
Craving for good hobbies (hobbies, sports)
An important part of post-rehabilitation support is the search and development of new interests and hobbies. Participation in hobby groups, sports clubs and other beneficial activities helps former drug addicts fill the void that was previously occupied by drugs.
Outpatient rehabilitation
Professionals strongly recommend that you undergo all stages of drug addiction treatment in a 24-hour hospital and a closed rehabilitation center. However, not all rehabilitators can be away from the family or at home for a long time. In non-standard life situations, a specialist can offer rehabilitation on an outpatient basis. According to the schedule of treatment activities, the rehabilitator attends sessions with a psychotherapist and a meeting of groups of special programs. Also, after completing all stages of drug addiction treatment, a person can consult a doctor or psychologist on an outpatient basis if threatening symptoms occur․