What Is Substance Abuse And What Do You Learn In Substance Abuse Rehab?

Experiencing substance abuse or watching a loved one experience it can be difficult. Those who suffer from substance abuse can become so reliant on substances that they turn into different people than we know them to be. Thankfully, there are substance abuse rehabs and programs to help anyone suffering from substance abuse. 

What Is Substance Abuse?

Substance abuse occurs when someone excessively uses substances, usually to the point of becoming reliant on them. 

Common substances that are abused include the following:

• Alcohol
• Cigarettes
• Pain medications (e.g. opioids, sleeping pills, etc.)
• Illegal drugs (e.g. heroin, meth, etc.)

Those suffering from substance abuse can become so reliant on these substances that they will do anything and harm anyone, even themselves, to get more. 

Signs and Symptoms of Substance Abuse

If you're worried that you or someone you know may be suffering from substance abuse, watch carefully for the following signs:

• Mood swings
• Loss of appetite
• Irregular sleep schedule
• Craving substances
• Stop taking care of oneself
• Lack of interest in hobbies

Watching for the signs is very important and could save someone's life. If you've noticed any of the listed signs and symptoms, it may be time to try to reason with the person suffering from substance abuse. There are places to get them help, such as a substance abuse rehab center. 

What Is Substance Abuse Rehab?

A substance abuse rehab facility is a place someone can go to overcome substance abuse. Before being admitted to rehab, you would most likely undergo an assessment from a healthcare professional. During the assessment, they would ask you about the following things:

• Medical history
• Mental health
• Substance abuse patterns
• Detoxing
• Financial status
• Physical problems or disabilities

Finding these things out allows them to create a treatment plan that is customized to your situation. This will ensure that your treatment plan is the plan that is most likely to bring you success. 

Before beginning treatment in a substance abuse rehab, you will most likely be asked to go through the detox process. Detoxing occurs when someone stops using substances long enough for the body to rid substances from its system. 

Substance Abuse Rehab Programs

Substance abuse rehab programs can be difficult for some to go through, making some want to quit the program. Going through the treatment will take commitment and perseverance. 

Substance abuse rehab programs can offer the following:

• Individual therapy
• Group therapy
• Family therapy
• Meetings
• Yoga and meditation
• Education to prevent relapses
• Education to recognize triggers
• Coping strategies
• Post-rehab planning

There are many more treatment options available that may be included in your treatment plan if your doctor or counselor feels you need the training. 

Substance abuse rehab may be a very difficult process, but you will have people supporting you every step of the way. If you or someone you love is trying to beat substance abuse, a rehab center may be the best option to push you to stay on track and do your best.