Even before the COVID-19 pandemic, there was a problem with mental health and addiction in the United States. The pandemic worsened these problems. With people out of work and without a purpose, poor mental health and addiction symptoms increased. There was already an epidemic of these detrimental issues, but the light was shone on them. One positive aspect of this is that awareness has spread. So, if you or someone you love is struggling with addiction or mental health issues, below are some of the best treatments for them.
Detox
When a person is physically dependent upon something, they’ll need to go through the detox process. Detox is when the body rids itself of the chemicals that keep it dependent upon a particular substance. It can be quite an unpleasant experience. People who are going through the detox process have all kinds of symptoms. For example, they could go through muscle spasms, vomiting, sweating, a fever, and many other symptoms. Therefore, a lot of people choose to detox in a professional environment. There is even a detox with ocean-view amenities. Whatever type of detox facility you want to be in when you are going through this time, you will be able to find it.
Inpatient Treatment
Inpatient treatment applies to both mental health and addiction. In an inpatient treatment setting, patients stay for about thirty days. They receive medical and psychological attention. This is when the person gets counseling and group therapy to start their recovery. They can also get access to the medication they might need. During this stay at an inpatient facility, the team will focus on the root causes of the problem and consider dual diagnosis for people struggling with addiction. A dual diagnosis is when an addiction and mental health issue simultaneously exist. Inpatient treatment can be helpful to a lot of people.
Outpatient Treatment
Outpatient treatment is when the patient takes on the same recovery plan as inpatient treatment but goes home at night. Outpatient is better for people functioning with addiction or mental health disorders. Initially, alcoholism may require detox, but after the initial withdrawal, outpatient treatment can resume. This type of treatment is good for people who still need to work. This enables people to receive the treatment they need to function daily.
Group Meetings
The group meeting is one of the most effective treatments for both mental health and addiction. You’ve probably heard of the 12-step program. For a lot of people addicted to drugs and alcohol, they credit 12-step sessions for helping them stay sober. There are group meetings for various mental health disorders. When it comes to mental health and addiction, group meetings can help you a lot. When someone is struggling with bipolar disorder or schizophrenia, it is helpful to them to hear that they are not alone. This is an essential aspect of any recovery. It is very helpful to share without fear of judgment when going through something. It is a valuable aspect of it.
Psychotherapy
Working with a psychotherapist is another treatment that can be helpful for people going through mental health issues. A psychotherapist can identify why someone who has become addicted to a substance started in the first place. What were they self-medicating? What about their childhood led them here? On the other hand, a good psychotherapist can identify mental health issues that come from genetics and others that come from circumstances. It will provide clarity for the person going through a mental health problem.
Addiction is just one type of mental health issue. Often, there is an underlying condition like depression, anxiety, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), bipolar disorder, or something else. These days, addiction is seen for what it is—another mental health diagnosis. If you or a loved one is struggling with mental health, addiction, or both, there are many treatments to take advantage of. There are many paths forward. It’s important first to understand what is going on and how to seek treatment best. There’s so much life ahead; you can make it the best life possible!
