Approaches to Help those with Addictions
Overcoming addiction requires a multifaceted approach. One effective method is reflecting on past obsessions and recognizing how they faded over time or suddenly, and applying this perspective to current bad habits. Recovery benefits from a supportive, substance-free environment, as enabling behaviors and exposure to triggers can hinder progress. Encouraging entire families or social circles to limit or abstain from unhealthy behaviors can foster a cleaner, more stable environment for recovery.
Addiction recovery is a TEAM effort that thrives on building a solid support network, especially for those who have experienced loss or isolation due to their addiction. Replacing toxic influences with positive ones, maintaining hope, and connecting with support systems such as meetings, sponsors, or programs are crucial steps.
People try to do this own their on and it usually doesn’t work out, but stubbornness is a major factor. You have to be patient to work with this population and anticipate the relapses.
Discouraging self-pity is VITAL, as negative thought patterns often lead to relapse or self-destructive behaviors. Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) or similar techniques can help retrain the brain by challenging toxic thoughts and promoting better coping skills, conflict resolution, and stability.
Promoting independence and stress management is imperative. By helping patients develop life skills and address responsibilities like work or family, they are better equipped to manage stress without relapsing. For those lacking structure, creating actionable plans (e.g., finding community resources, helping to start a resume) can provide a sense of purpose and direction.
Treatment should address more than the addiction itself. Providing patients with responsibilities and a sense of purpose ensures they remain functional adults, even in the face of setbacks. Relapses should be viewed as part of the learning process, as recovery often involves trial and error. Over time, individuals can build resilience and work toward becoming healthier, more functional members of society.
Relapses and setbacks are common in recovery, and providers should not take them personally. Recovery can take years, and the outcome ultimately depends on the individual’s decision to stay strong and sober. While providers play a crucial role in guiding and supporting patients, the responsibility for prioritizing recovery and achieving independence rests with the individual. Thankfully, I didn’t have any incidents of an OD but some of my co-workers did so I’ll just throw in these final notes, use the medication follow-ups to mainly:
- Maintain protocols such as regular Rx screens, rating tools, and boundaries, -cautions especially with benzos and stimulants. Target sleep and mood, address ADHD, anxiety, depression or other conditions that can lead to relapsing. Be mindful of the clinical considerations with addictions i.e. heart/kidney/liver problems, diabetes, HTN, etc. TARGET cravings (PRN medications if necessary). Also, be mindful that all of this may require follow-up <2-4 weeks if needed…
