<a href="https://www.addiction-treatment.com/wp-content/uploads/Behavioral-Treatment_3-19.jpg"><img class="alignnone size-full wp-image-29109" src="https://www.addiction-treatment.com/wp-content/uploads/Behavioral-Treatment_3-19.jpg" alt="Behavioral Treatments For Addiction" width="800" height="533" /></a>

One of the primary goals of behavioral therapy, when used to treat addiction, is to help people examine unhealthy behaviors that may lead (or have led) to substance abuse. By helping those in recovery better understand their thoughts and feelings, they can begin to utilize healthier coping mechanisms and recognize potential triggers.

Two terms regularly discussed when speaking about therapy are research-based and evidence-based. Although they sound similar, there are subtle differences between the two.

Research-based means that the treatment is built on observable and measurable theories and outcomes as demonstrated in a research setting. Evidence-based means that treatment teams use the best available knowledge to make treatment decisions—it is often based on research, but also draws upon clinical expertise and a person’s own preferences. It acknowledges that <a href="https://www.addiction-treatment.com/types-of-addictions/chemical-dependency/assessment/">the best form of treatment is usually based on the opinion and experience of industry experts</a>, even if little or no research exists on the topic.<sup>1</sup>
<h2>Why Do I Need Behavioral Therapy?</h2>
Drug addiction is a complex and pervasive disease characterized by compulsive use despite their harmful effects and long-lasting brain changes.<sup>16</sup> Behavioral therapies focus on changing a person’s maladaptive behaviors that lead to substance abuse by helping to promote healthy life skills and coping mechanisms that could prevent relapse in the future.<sup>1 </sup>

Treatment centers use various behavioral modalities that can vary by the specific addiction being treated. In many cases, behavioral therapy is combined with medication to help ease the transition from drug use to sobriety. Specifically, opioid, alcohol, and nicotine addictions are usually treated with a combination of medication and behavioral therapy. Other types of addiction, such as those that involve the abuse of stimulants or cannabis, are generally treated with behavioral therapy alone, as there are no approved medications to treat these addictions.<sup>2</sup>

When it comes to rehabilitation programs, there are a variety of options to choose from such as inpatient treatment—which is helpful for people who require a high level of structure and supervision and for those with severe addictions—or outpatient treatment. The latter is usually best for those who do not require a high level of supervision or those who cannot commit to an inpatient stay.

Regardless of which setting you choose, you may be exposed to more than one type of behavioral therapy—in both group and private counseling sessions—as well as medication treatment, <a href="https://www.addiction-treatment.com/addiction-support-groups/">12-step meetings and other types of program-specific assistance</a>.
<h2>What Kind Will I Experience in Treatment?</h2>
<img class="alignnone wp-image-29110 size-full" src="https://www.addiction-treatment.com/wp-content/uploads/MotivationalInterviewing_3-19jpg.jpg" alt="Motivational Interviewing" width="800" height="534" />
The following are some of the evidence-based therapies that can help treat addiction. In addition to one-on-one therapies, you may also see some of these techniques used in different settings, such as group and family sessions. These therapies may also be used to complement medication-assisted treatment.
<h3>Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy</h3>
Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) is a form of treatment that helps address the maladaptive thoughts and feelings that a person may be struggling with. It aims to assist individuals in making positive cognitive changes that can lead to healthier behaviors and better maintenance of emotional distress.

Though cognitive-behavioral therapeutic approaches may vary, some general characteristics include:<sup>3</sup>
<ul>
 	<li>Shorter session times, as opposed to longer, more traditional psychotherapy sessions.</li>
 	<li>A focus on the idea that a person’s thoughts affect their emotions and behaviors.</li>
 	<li>A collaboration between the therapist and the client.</li>
 	<li>Structure and directive (i.e., you have specific goals and are taught specific techniques).</li>
 	<li>An education model with the understanding that because you learned certain behaviors and responses, you can also unlearn them.</li>
 	<li>Rational thinking. You are encouraged to look at the facts, rather than your emotional interpretation of events.</li>
</ul>
CBT is focused on the present, geared toward your specific problems, and helps you achieve measurable goals. The average total number of CBT sessions a person receives is relatively low. Unlike some other forms of psychotherapy, with their more enduring time-commitment and numerous sessions, you won’t have time to delve into an extensive examination of your past. This may be a challenge for some people, as many benefit from a deeper look into the influence of their childhoods and early lives on the present. Unlike depth psychotherapy, a typical CBT session is instructive and educational, and you may receive homework assignments from your therapist. Your therapist will listen to your concerns and help you set specific, measurable goals.<sup>3</sup>

Research has shown CBT to be effective for treating addiction, with studies showing the highest level of efficacy for cannabis addiction, followed by cocaine, opioids, and then polysubstance abuse.<sup>4 </sup>Studies have also shown that it has a number of strengths, including a lower level of dropout in treatment, its short-term basis, and its ability to help reduce relapse.<sup>5</sup> However, some of the drawbacks are that people must commit to the process (attend all sessions) and complete homework assignments, which can take a considerable amount of time. <strong> </strong>
<h3>Motivational Interviewing</h3>
Motivational interviewing (MI) is a form of time-limited behavioral treatment designed to help reduce a person’s ambivalence to treatment. It focuses on the motivational processes that help a person make lasting change by focusing on their values and concerns. MI is based on a respectful and positive client-therapist relationship, in which both parties can identify, examine, and resolve the client’s ambivalence to making changes.<sup>6</sup>

The key elements of MI are collaboration, evocation—meaning the therapist helps draw out the client’s thoughts and ideas, rather than impose their own—and autonomy (i.e., the therapist is not the authority figure but rather recognizes the client as the instigator of change). Autonomy helps reduce ambivalence because resistance is usually seen as the result of a conflict between the client’s view of the problem, solution and the therapist’s viewpoint. The goal is to increase the client’s intrinsic motivation to make positive and lasting change.<sup>7</sup>

A typical MI session might involve several components, such as:<sup>8</sup>
<ul>
 	<li>Being asked open-ended questions that allow you the freedom to respond however you wish, without fear of judgment.</li>
 	<li>Being affirmed for your successes and accomplishments.</li>
 	<li>Reflective listening, in which your therapist will make sure that they have correctly heard and understood what you’ve said.</li>
 	<li>Summarizing, in which your therapist recaps the session, so you have the chance to correct any potential misunderstandings.</li>
</ul>
MI recognizes five stages of change and helps to resolve potential motivational conflicts associated with them, such as:<sup>6</sup>
<ul>
 	<li><strong>Precontemplation</strong>: You are not quite sure why your addiction is a cause for concern, but are willing to give treatment a chance.</li>
 	<li><strong>Contemplation</strong>: You can imagine how quitting drugs will improve your life, but you might not be able to yet picture a sober life.</li>
 	<li><strong>Preparation</strong>: You’re preparing to quit but you may have your doubts.</li>
 	<li><strong>Action</strong>: You’ve already quit using drugs but aren’t entirely sure if you can stay clean.</li>
 	<li><strong>Maintenance</strong>: Making progress toward recovery and abstaining from drug use, even if you aren’t sure if abstinence is necessary.</li>
</ul>
MI's strength lies in the fact that it works with your own desire for change, instead of being externally imposed on you. It is up to you to make the change, which can be both a strength and weakness of this treatment, as you are completely responsible for your recovery. Other strengths include being low-cost and that it improves treatment adherence, which improves treatment outcomes.<sup>6</sup><strong> </strong>

<img class="alignnone size-full wp-image-29111" src="https://www.addiction-treatment.com/wp-content/uploads/MatrixModel_Addiction-Treatment_3-19.jpg" alt="Matrix Model Addiction Treatment" width="800" height="499" />
<h3>Contingency Management<strong> </strong></h3>
Contingency management (CM) is a type of behavioral therapy that relies on positive reinforcement to reward abstinence and modify behavior.<sup>9 </sup>CM involves identifying a target behavior (like abstinence), arranging for a way to measure behavior change (e.g., negative urine test), and providing reinforcement whenever the target behavior occurs (token for a negative urine test).<sup>10 </sup>The most common rewards for positive behaviors are vouchers, prizes, clinic privileges, or monetary compensation.<sup>10</sup><sup> </sup>

CM can be very effective for improving treatment outcomes, such as increased treatment retention and decreased drug use. A large body of research on the efficacy of CM has demonstrated benefits for cocaine addiction; but studies have also shown it to be effective for treating addiction to heroin, benzodiazepines, marijuana, alcohol, and nicotine.<sup>10, 11</sup><span style="vertical-align: super;"> </span>

CM is beneficial for <a href="https://www.addiction-treatment.com/treatment-types/">helping to maintain abstinence and improve treatment retention</a>, not only in people with isolated substance addictions, but also in those who have a dual diagnosis (a co-occurring mental health disorder and substance use disorder).<sup>9</sup> However, some of the challenges of this form of treatment are that it is sometimes compared to “bribery.” Critics have voiced concerns that positive behaviors might only persist with the continued delivery of CM rewards and have indicated that, in some instances, there may be a risk of people trading their rewards for drugs.<sup>12</sup>
<h3>Matrix Model</h3>
Originally developed to treat the widespread cocaine addiction that became prevalent in the 1980s, the Matrix Model is intended mainly for users of the substance and other stimulants like methamphetamine.<sup>13, 14</sup> It is a comprehensive form of addiction treatment that occurs in an intensive outpatient setting (you’ll attend treatment several times per week).<sup>15 </sup>You can expect to participate in relapse prevention groups, social support groups, education groups, individual and group counseling, and urine and breath testing. Therapy is highly structured and usually takes place over the course of 16 weeks.<sup>18</sup>

People who participate in the Matrix Model have stayed in treatment longer, attended more groups, provided more methamphetamine-free urine samples during treatment, and had longer periods of abstinence from meth.<sup>14</sup>

Strengths of this model include its comprehensive approach, the use of a manual so therapists can follow specific instructions and exercises, and its extensive use and proven effectiveness in treating stimulant addiction. Weaknesses include the need for modification of treatment materials when working with people who are cognitively impaired, the requirement for specific staff training and supervision, the highly structured content which may not appeal to everyone, and the time-limited structure, which doesn’t always allow for the identification and discussion of other underlying issues.<sup>15</sup><strong> </strong>
<h3>Other Supplemental Therapies</h3>
In addition to the aforementioned evidenced-based behavioral therapies, other supplemental therapeutic approaches you may encounter during rehabilitation include:
<ul>
 	<li>Rational Emotive Behavior Therapy (REBT)</li>
 	<li>Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing Therapy (EMDR)</li>
 	<li>Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT)</li>
 	<li>Community Reinforcement and Family Training (CRAFT)</li>
 	<li>Multidimensional Family Therapy</li>
 	<li>Integrative Approach</li>
 	<li>Person-Centered Therapy</li>
</ul>
<h3>Sources</h3>
[1]. American Educational Research Institute. (2008). <a href="http://www.aera.net/About-AERA/Key-Programs/Education-Research-Research-Policy/AERA-Offers-Definition-of-Scientifically-Based-Res" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"><em>AERA offers definition of scientifically based research</em></a>.

[2]. National Institute on Drug Abuse. (2018). <a href="https://www.drugabuse.gov/publications/drugs-brains-behavior-science-addiction/treatment-recovery" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"><em>Drugs, brains, and behavior: The science of addiction: Treatment and recovery</em></a>.

[3]. National Association of Cognitive-Behavioral Therapists. (2016). <a href="http://www.nacbt.org/whatiscbt-htm/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"><em>What is Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT)?</em></a>

[4]. McHugh, R. K., Hearon, B. A., &amp; Otto, M. W. (2010). <a href="https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2897895/">Cognitive behavioral therapy for substance use disorders</a>. <em>The Psychiatric Clinics of North America</em>, <em>33</em><em>(3), 511-25.</em>

[5]. Hofmann, S. G., Asnaani, A., Vonk, I. J., Sawyer, A. T., &amp; Fang, A. (2012). <a href="https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3584580/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">The efficacy of cognitive behavioral therapy: A review of meta-analyses</a>. <em>Cognitive Therapy and Research</em>, <em>36</em><em>(5), 427-440.</em>

[6]. Center for Substance Abuse Treatment. (1999). <a href="https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK64964/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"><em>Enhancing motivation for change in substance abuse treatment. (Treatment Improvement Protocol [TIP] Series, No. 35.) Chapter 3—Motivational interviewing as a counseling style</em></a>. Rockville, MD: Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration.

[7]. UMass Amherst. (n.d.). Retrieved November 12, 2015.  <a href="https://www.umass.edu/studentlife/sites/default/files/documents/pdf/Motivational_Interviewing_Definition_Principles_Approach.pdf" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"><em>Motivational Interviewing Definition, Principles, Approach</em></a>.

[8]. Stewart, E. &amp; Fox, C. (2011). <a href="https://www.aafp.org/fpm/2011/0500/p21.html">Encouraging patients to change unhealthy behaviors with motivational interviewing</a>. <em>Family Practice Management, 18(3), 21-25.</em>

[9]. Petry N. M. (2011). <a href="https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3083448/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Contingency management: what it is and why psychiatrists should want to use it</a>. <em>The Psychiatrist, 35(5), 161-163.</em>

[10]. Petry, N. &amp; Stitzer, M. (n.d.) <a href="http://lib.adai.washington.edu/ctnlib/PDF/CMmanual.pdf"><em>Contingency management: Using motivational incentives to improve drug abuse treatment</em></a>. West Haven, CT: Yale University Psychotherapy Development Center.

[11]. McPherson, S., Burduli, E., Smith, C., Herron, J., Oluwoye, O…Roll, J. (2018). <a href="https://www.dovepress.com/a-review-of-contingency-management-for-the-treatment-of-substance-use--peer-reviewed-fulltext-article-SAR" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">A review of contingency management for the treatment of substance-use disorders: adaptation for underserved populations, use of experimental technologies, and personalized optimization strategies</a>. <em>Substance Abuse and Rehabilitation, 9, 43-57.</em>

[12]. Petry N. M. (2010). <a href="https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3049167/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Contingency management treatments: controversies and challenges</a>. <em>Addiction, 105(9), 1507-9.</em>

[13]. National Institute on Drug Abuse. (2018). <a href="https://www.drugabuse.gov/publications/principles-drug-addiction-treatment-research-based-guide-third-edition/evidence-based-approaches-to-drug-addiction-treatment/behavioral-3" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"><em>Principles of Drug Addiction Treatment: A Research-Based Guide (Third Edition): The Matrix Model (Stimulants)</em></a>.

[14]. Hazelden Publishing. (n.d.) <a href="https://www.hazelden.org/web/go/matrix" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"><em>The Matrix Model</em></a>.

[15]. Center for Substance Abuse Treatment. (2006). <a href="https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK64102/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"><em>Substance abuse: Clinical issues in intensive outpatient treatment. (Treatment Improvement Protocol [TIP] series, no. 47.) Chapter 8. Intensive outpatient treatment approaches</em></a>. Rockville, MD: Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration.

[16]. National Institute on Drug Abuse. (2018). <a href="https://www.drugabuse.gov/publications/media-guide/science-drug-use-addiction-basics"><em>The Science of Drug Use and Addiction: The Basics</em></a><em>.</em>

[17]. Center for Substance Abuse Treatment. (2006). <a href="https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK64102/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"><em>Substance abuse: Clinical issues in intensive outpatient treatment. (Treatment Improvement Protocol [TIP] series, no. 47.) Chapter 8. Intensive outpatient treatment approaches</em></a>. Rockville, MD: Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration.

[18]. Obert, J., McCann, M., Marinelli-Casey, P., Weiner, A., Minsky, S… Rawson, R. (2000). <a href="https://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/02791072.2000.10400224" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">The matrix model of outpatient stimulant abuse treatment: History and description</a>. <em>Journal of Psychoactive Drugs, 32(2), 157-64.</em>

Behavioral Addiction Treatment

<div class="wp-block-image"><figure class="aligncenter"><img src="https://admin.addiction-treatment.com/wp-content/uploads/crisisresourceguide-507x340.jpg" alt="crisis resource guide" class="wp-image-29124"/></figure></div>



<p>If you’re concerned about a loved one’s substance use or are in need of guidance with your own addiction-related question(s), use our quick guide to find the answers.</p>



<p><a name="Experiencing Emergency"></a></p>



<h2>I’m Experiencing an Emergency</h2>



<p>If you or a loved one is in immediate danger or are experiencing an emergency situation (violence, suicidal thoughts, drug overdose, alcohol poisoning, withdrawal from alcohol or certain drugs), <em>dial 9-1-1</em> immediately.</p>



<p><a name="How to Deal"></a></p>



<h2>Help! How Do I Begin to Deal With This?</h2>



<p>First, take a deep breath in and let it go. Addiction can be scary, but you’re not alone. Struggling with a substance use disorder or caring for someone who has one can feel overwhelming at times, but recovery through treatment is possible.</p>



<p>Before getting into the nitty gritty of addiction, it’s good to understand what it is and how it manifests itself in someone’s life.</p>



<p>The <a href="https://www.asam.org/resources/definition-of-addiction" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"><em>American Society of Addiction Medicine</em></a> (ASAM) defines it as a “primary, chronic disease of brain reward, motivation, memory and related circuitry,” which leads to biological, behavioral, social, and spiritual changes in people.</p>



<p>In other words, although the path that led to this state may have been a person’s personal choice to use a substance, it is not ultimately their fault that they are now addicted. It is a mental health disorder that is linked to decreased control of one’s behaviors.<sup>1</sup></p>



<p><a name="Heavy Drinking"></a></p>



<h2>What If This is Just Heavy Drinking?</h2>



<p>It can be hard to determine the difference between social drinking and alcoholism. At times, they can look the same on the surface, but if you’re on this page, your instincts about addiction may be correct.</p>



<p>To help you further understand what alcoholism is, the below list indicates some common signs that may indicate a person is struggling with alcoholism, known clinically as an alcohol use disorder.<sup>2</sup></p>



<div class="wp-block-image"><figure class="aligncenter"><img src="https://admin.addiction-treatment.com/wp-content/uploads/heavydrinking-513x340.jpg" alt="alcohol abuse" class="wp-image-29128"/></figure></div>



<p>If you or a loved one has experienced two or more of these criteria within the last 12 months<sup>3</sup>, you or your loved one may have an alcohol use disorder. If you have any of these symptoms, you should consult with a healthcare professional, as it may point to a problematic pattern of alcohol use that could benefit from treatment.&nbsp;<strong>&nbsp;</strong></p>



<ul><li>A craving or a strong desire to use alcohol</li><li>Inability to cut down or control alcohol consumption following persistent attempts or desire to quit</li><li>A great deal of time is spent doing activities that involve getting alcohol, drinking alcohol, or recovering from its effects</li><li>Alcohol use leads to giving up or decreasing important occupational, social, and recreational activities</li><li>Experiencing symptoms of withdrawal when abstaining from alcohol</li><li>Often drinking more alcohol than intended or drinking for longer than intended</li><li>Having problems fulfilling important responsibilities at school, work, or home due to regular drinking</li><li>Continued alcohol use despite issues with interpersonal relationships caused or exacerbated by alcohol</li><li>Repeated use of alcohol in situations in which it is physically hazardous (e.g., driving)</li><li>Continuing drinking alcohol even when knowing that it is likely causing or worsening a physical or psychological problem</li><li>A growing tolerance in which increased amounts of alcohol are needed to achieve intoxication or other desired effect</li></ul>



<p><a name="Normal Drug Use"></a></p>



<h2>This is Just Normal Drug Experimentation, Right?</h2>



<p>When it comes to using illicit drugs or legalized substances (such as marijuana) recreationally, it is not uncommon for individuals to experiment to explore their effects. However, frequent use as well as physical and/or behavioral changes may point to a more problematic drug use issue.</p>



<p>Since drugs interfere with the way neurons send, receive, and process signals in the brain, a person who misuses drugs may begin to feel flat, without motivation, and/or depressed when they aren't using. Now, those taking the drug(s) often need to keep taking it in higher amounts or more frequently in order to get the same effects.<sup>4</sup></p>



<p>Whether a person is struggling with drugs or alcohol, here are a few warning signs of potential abuse and/or addiction:<sup>5,6</sup></p>



<ul><li>Appearing intoxicated more and more often.</li><li>Appearing anxious, fearful, or paranoid, for no reason.</li><li>Stealing money or valuables to pay for drugs.</li><li>Lack of motivation; appearing "out-of-it" or tired.</li><li>Becoming angry, sad, or lashing out when questioned about their substance use.</li><li>Developing problems with cognition and memory.</li><li>Poor hygiene or a neglected appearance.</li><li>Unexplained change in personality or attitude.</li><li>Experiencing withdrawal symptoms when unable to use the substance.</li><li>Being lethargic, sleeping more, sleeping irregular hours, or appearing unwell or tired.</li><li>Developing problems at work (e.g., losing one’s job) or school (e.g., failing or dropping out).</li><li>Becoming stressed or anxious if a social event does not include drugs or alcohol.</li><li>Isolating from friends and family.</li><li>Periods of unusual increased energy, nervousness, or instability.</li></ul>



<p><a name="Talk"></a></p>



<h2>How to Talk to a Loved One</h2>



<div class="wp-block-image"><figure class="aligncenter"><img src="https://admin.addiction-treatment.com/wp-content/uploads/talktolovedone-510x340.jpg" alt="talking to a loved one about addiction" class="wp-image-29135"/></figure></div>



<p><a href="https://drugabuse.com/talk-communicate-addiction/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow">Confronting someone about their addiction isn’t easy</a>, and there is no one right way to do so. But the good news is, there are ways of communicating that may be more helpful than others when dealing with this sensitive subject. Although it may be uncomfortable, if it leads to a healthier life for your loved one, you’ll be glad you spoke up.</p>



<p>As you prepare to speak with your loved one, remember to approach your discussions with empathy and compassion. Below are some suggested do’s and don’t’s for when you’re ready to talk to them about addiction:</p>



<h3>Don’t's:</h3>



<ul><li>Don't use blaming language, as this can just make them defensive</li><li>Don't get heated during conversation and use shaming language to convince them of their problem.</li><li>Don't contradict your words with your actions. Don’t say that you think their drinking is an issue and then invite them to share a glass of wine over dinner.</li><li>Don't use your experiences to relate with theirs. If you’ve never suffered from addiction, it may come across as condescending or insensitive.</li><li>Don't expect them to be ready to hear what you have to say during your first discussion. Be patient and if multiple conversations (spread out so you’re not nagging them) aren’t getting anywhere, consider other ways to approach the situation such as through an intervention or with the help of a mental health professional.</li><li>Don't force treatment on them. If they aren’t ready to make that step on their own, pressuring them may only drive them away.</li></ul>



<h3>Do:</h3>



<ul><li>Identify the addiction as a disorder; no one plans to become addicted to drugs or alcohol. It’s not a moral choice.</li><li>Provide specific examples of behaviors that have you concerned.</li><li>Remind them that getting help or treatment is nothing to be ashamed of. Many people seek the assistance of professionals to deal with life’s ups and downs.</li><li>Listen without interruption as they discuss their feelings, their perspective of what’s going on, and their concerns about treatment. Even if you may disagree, listen first – this is your time to be understanding.</li><li>Remain consistent in your message not only with your words, but with your actions too.</li><li>Set boundaries and keep them.</li><li>Show them that their addiction does not mean they are any less loved by you.</li><li>Help them understand that things can get better. Recovery is a tangible option.</li><li>Offer your assistance in whatever way you are able and willing to participate in their recovery journey (but be sure it’s not in a way that’s actually enabling their addiction).</li></ul>



<p><a name="Dont Want Help"></a></p>



<h2>What If They Don’t Want Help?</h2>



<p>Substance use affects a person by interfering with how neurons (nerve cells) send, receive, and process signals through neurotransmitters. Substance use can lead to biological and behavioral changes, potentially impacting motivation, stress, decision making, problem solving, impulse control, and more. This can make it difficult at times to discuss sobriety and treatment because they may have a hard time seeing the consequences of their behavior and/or they may not be ready or willing to admit they have a problem.<sup>4</sup></p>



<p>But don’t give up, this is normal and expected. It may take a few discussions and help from others before your loved one is ready to seek treatment. Offer ways to help that person overcome barriers to treatment, refrain from any <a href="https://www.mentalhelp.net/blogs/codependent-and-enabling-behaviors/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow">enabling behavior</a>, and/or seek guidance for yourself by speaking with an addiction counselor or mental health professional.</p>



<p>Addiction not only affects the person with the disorder but also those around the individual. There are a number of dedicated groups for friends or family members of people struggling with addiction. Joining one of these groups may help you better understand what your loved one is going through, how to better reach them, and how you can cope.</p>



<p><a name="Violent Situations"></a></p>



<h2>What to Do in Violent Situations</h2>



<div class="wp-block-image"><figure class="aligncenter"><img src="https://admin.addiction-treatment.com/wp-content/uploads/violentsituations-510x340.jpg" alt="calling the cops on a loved one" class="wp-image-29138"/></figure></div>



<p>If you’re dealing with someone who is showing signs of aggression, or you feel a scenario may turn violent, seek the help of your local authorities to de-escalate the situation. &nbsp;Substance use can lead to distorted thinking, poor judgement skills, difficulties with impulse control, and more<sup>4</sup>—which may make it more difficult to speak with someone with an addiction while they’re in a highly-emotional state.</p>



<p>Calling the local authorities on a loved one can be difficult, but if things begin to rise to an unsafe level, enlisting the help of those who are professionally trained in these types of situations can make a big difference. Feeling afraid when your struggling loved one is being aggressive is a perfectly understandable reaction, and calling the police may be the appropriate way to de-escalate a frightening situation.</p>



<p><a name="Advice Hotline"></a></p>



<h2>Who Can I Call For Advice?</h2>



<p>If you’re unsure of how to handle your substance abuse or that of a loved one, call our private 24-hour hotline at 1-877-740-4761 to discuss your treatment options. The hotline is completely confidential and will be answered by <a href="https://americanaddictioncenters.org/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow">American Addiction Centers</a> admissions navigators. Offered at no cost to you, there is no obligation to enter into treatment by calling us.</p>



<p>If you wish to explore additional treatment options or connect with a specific rehab center, you can visit&nbsp;<a href="https://www.samhsa.gov/treatment/index.aspx" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">SAMHSA’s treatment services locator</a>. For more information on AAC’s treatment practices or to learn more about AAC’s treatment centers, visit our <a href="https://americanaddictioncenters.org/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow">website</a>.</p>



<h3>Sources</h3>



<p>[1]. The American Psychiatric Association. (2017). Addiction and Substance Use Disorders. <a href="https://www.psychiatry.org/patients-families/addiction/what-is-addiction" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"><em>What Is Addiction?</em></a></p>



<p>[2].&nbsp;<em>Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders: DSM-5.</em>&nbsp;(5th ed.). (2013). Washington, D.C.: American Psychiatric Association. 490-491.</p>



<p>[3]. National Institute on Alcohol Abuse &amp; Alcoholism. (2015). <a href="https://www.niaaa.nih.gov/alcohol-health/overview-alcohol-consumption/alcohol-use-disorders" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"><em>Alcohol Use Disorder</em></a><em>.</em></p>



<p>[4]. National Institute on Drug Abuse. (2018). <a href="https://www.drugabuse.gov/publications/drugs-brains-behavior-science-addiction/drugs-brain" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"><em>Drugs, Brains, and Behavior: The Science of Addiction</em></a><em>.</em></p>



<p>[5]. Indian Health Service. Alcohol and Substance Abuse Program. (2017). Information. <a href="https://www.ihs.gov/asap/information/warningsignsdrug/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"><em>Warning Signs of Drug Abuse and Addiction</em></a><em>.</em></p>



<p>[6]. Indian Health Service. (n.d.).<em><a href="https://www.ihs.gov/asap/information/warningsignsalcohol/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"> Warning Signs of Alcohol Abuse</a>.</em></p>

Crisis Resource Guide

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<p>Nicolle Monico received her B.A. in Journalism at Biola University in Southern California in 2005. In the past 12 years, she has worked as a professional writer and editor in the online media world covering everything from local news to luxury travel, sports, health and wellness and current hot button topics. Nicolle is passionate about helping others and is now using her skills to help those struggling with addiction to find recovery as a Sr. Web Content Editor at American Addiction Centers.</p>
</div>

Addiction is classified as a <a href="https://www.asam.org/resources/definition-of-addiction" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">chronic brain disease</a> that is demonstrated by compulsive substance use despite negative or harmful consequences. According to the 2017 National Survey on Drug Use and Health (NSDUH), this complex condition affects <a href="https://www.samhsa.gov/data/report/2017-nsduh-annual-national-report" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">19.7 million American adults</a> (aged 12 and older), with nearly 74% of those adults suffering from an alcohol use disorder (AUD) and about 38% battling an illicit drug use disorder.

We aim to provide the millions dealing with addiction the tools, information and expert insights needed to better understand this harmful disease and how to work toward recovery. Within our pages, you can find out more about the warning signs, methods of intervention, <a href="/detox/withdrawal/">withdrawal symptoms</a> and <a href="/residential-programs/">treatment options</a> available for many of today’s most abused substances.

Because the issues people struggle with are as varied as the individuals themselves, finding the right treatment program is crucial. If you're ready to take the next step or just have some initial questions, we can point you in the right direction. Our supportive admissions navigators are available 24/7 to assist you or your loved one in finding the help you need.

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Nicolle Monico

Nicolle Monico is a Senior Web Content Editor at American Addiction Centers with more than 12 years of writing and editing experience.

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