Following the definition of World Health Organization, drug and alcohol addiction can be defined as states of isochronal or unmitigated intoxication, a state that is detrimental to both the individual’s health, and the society’s well-being, caused by the reiterative consumption of synthetic or natural drugs and alcohol. The main characteristics of addiction are: (a) There is an overpowering desire to consume alcohol or drug, causing addicts to go to any extent to procure them; (b) The dosage is increased on a regular basis; (c) The drug or alcohol starts influencing the psychological and physical well-being of the consumer.

How to deal with family drug addictionAn effective way of treating individuals suffering from addiction is through counseling and therapy, such as those sessions that are conducted under the guidance of Dr. Nishant Kumar. With time-counseling, also known as behavioral therapy or talk therapy has evolved to be one of the important methods of fighting alcohol and drug addiction.

There are different types of treatment programs for fighting addiction. There are individual therapies and group therapies, or simple individual counseling. Alcohol and drug addicts will benefit from therapy and counseling, regardless of the particular program they choose to follow.

Counseling involves the use of specific techniques, but all of them are designed to fulfill the ultimate purpose of successfully changing an addict’s behavioral patterns to assist him/her to fight the uncontrollable urge to consume alcohol and drugs, and thereby lead a productive, healthy life.

How to deal with family drug addiction- Approaches To Counseling Addicts

Behavioral counseling employs techniques that are meant to help addicts fight their insatiable attraction to drugs and alcohol. Here are some of the approaches:

1) Teaching patients and making them aware of the skills that are handy for avoiding a relapse into addiction. Progressive addiction makes individuals dependent on drugs and alcohol, both physically and psychologically. Cognitive behavioral therapy helps and trains patients to fight the aphrodisiac lure induced by alcohol and drugs, thereby eliminating the chances of relapse after detoxification.

2) Motivational enhancement therapies and interviews help patients to build the self-confidence required to fight addiction. These therapies give a clear picture of the damage that has been caused by addiction, and the positive actions that will help them to recover.

3) Group sessions help patients to realize that they are not alone in their fight against addiction. These people often feel isolated because they face much rejection from the society in which they live and their own families. Group discussions and sessions create a sense of belonging and encourages an addict to fight his urge to consume these harmful elements.

4) Recovery from addiction is a process that requires utmost dedication and commitment as it is time-consuming. Therefore, the system of rewards always works as a positive incentive. Small rewards like giving the patients gift certificates, restaurant coupons, movie tickets on achieving certain milestones while undergoing treatment helps to keep them motivated during the long and arduous recovery process.

5) The involvement of family members always helps to keep patients motivated and focused. They provide a support system that instills confidence in patients to fight their addiction.

There is no medicated treatment for individuals addicted to cocaine and methamphetamines, and for such people, therapy is the best option for recovery.

How Do You Understand When Counseling Is Required

It is often difficult to determine the exact moment when counseling is required, hence here are certain signs to look out for:

The person tends to hurt others as well as himself/herself.

Frequent absenteeism from home or workplace may be caused by addiction.

When self motivation is not enough to prevent a relapse into addiction.

When the person loses concentration and focus and is unable to perform regular daily activities.

The person feels an uncontrollable urge to consume drugs or alcohol at any given point of time during the day.

Full blown addiction can be determined by any of the above mentioned behavioral tendencies. A person exhibiting any of these signs needs urgent help and counseling goes a long way in assisting the recovery process.

It is equally important to find an experienced counselor who will provide patients and their families with the proper information required for fighting addiction. It is best to do considerable research before deciding on a particular counselor or facility.