Many men and women become dependent on mind-altering substances that help them relax. They may have started using alcohol, marijuana, sedatives, or other drugs to cope with stress and eventually feel the need for these substances every day. If so, it may be time to begin sessions with an Addiction Therapist in Huntsville AL, to begin the recovery process.
Detoxification and Tapering
If the person has been using certain substances every day, especially in excessive amounts, medical detoxification or weaning from the drug may be necessary. Severe withdrawal symptoms may develop when a person suddenly quits after excessive daily drinking for a long time. Addiction to benzodiazepines also may require tapering from the drug.
Less severe symptoms can tempt a person to begin using again to avoid the unpleasantness. An Addiction Therapist in Huntsville AL helps the client learn strategies to continue moving forward on the recovery path. Soon the physical withdrawal will be over, but psychological cravings can be more difficult to overcome.
Psychological Dependence
Psychological dependence can be tough to break, and the person may experience those cravings for the substance for a long time. This individual must learn how to deal with triggers, such as stressful days and invitations to have a drink. On some days, it will be easy to answer an invitation with the polite response: “Thanks, but I’m not drinking today.” On other days, this will be more of a challenge.
Coping with Mental Health Issues
It’s common for people to have become dependent on a drug to help them cope with a mental health issue they may not even realize they have. Someone with generalized anxiety disorder, for instance, may discover that drinking alcohol helps to feel calmer. A person who has low-level depression also may be attracted to alcohol because the first few drinks create a sense of serenity.
Factors in Addiction
Genetic and family factors both have a role in whether a person is more likely to become addicted. During therapy sessions at an organization like Restoring Hearts Counseling, the client has the chance to explore substance use in the family while growing up and currently. Anyone interested may visit the website to learn more.
