Month: July 2022

When it comes to recovery from drug addiction, it is a process that happens for life. Even when an individual has been certified to be sober and free from drug addiction, they still need to continue receiving treatment.

However, the treatment that comes with the post-recovery phase is different from what they went through at the treatment center or rehab. This type of treatment is targeted at helping individuals retain their sobriety even during intense cravings.

Aftercare treatment is the ongoing care that individuals receive when they leave rehab. This aftercare treatment helps the recovering individual to expect obstacles that might challenge their sobriety.

Therefore, they need to be ready with the right solutions to put those obstacles at bay.

When it is time for aftercare treatment, you will meet with counselors or therapists who will create a plan for you. This plan will depend on your present situation and life needs.

Some people remain in aftercare for a short time, while some can spend a few years.

Most addiction treatment experts advise that patients are actively involved in their aftercare treatment for a minimum of one year. Over time, the aftercare plans can be modified to suit your changing goals and needs.

Additionally, friends and family members can support their loved ones during their aftercare treatment.

They can participate in both group sessions where they learn more about addiction and how they can help their loved ones master the necessary coping skills.

People who miss aftercare treatment are likely to relapse more than those who begin theirs after the main addiction treatment.

Generally, an aftercare plan can involve participating in the alumni program of your treatment center. This is where you will meet people who have passed through your treatment center.

Also, you might have to remain in sober living for some time. Then, you will need to attend both individual and group counseling sessions with the addiction counselor so that they can be updated on your progress.

Many drug addicts exist even around us, and one of the ways to provide help is to start by identifying them. When you know how to spot an addict, it becomes easier to create strategies that will make them accept the help you’re offering.

Some addicts prefer to mask their drug addiction because they don’t want to be stigmatized by society. So, if you’re not too observant, you might not know they are addicted. However, the signs that will be discussed in this article will give them away when you see them.

Privacy and secrecy

An addicted individual will prefer to have their personal space untampered with. They will not allow anyone to get into their space because of their addiction.

Since most drug addicts don’t want to suffer from stigmatization, they prefer it if no one knew about their addiction. Most times, they will use their drugs in secret without the knowledge of anyone.

Losing interest in other activities

As the addiction gets more intense, they will become less interested in activities that they previously loved. People in their close circle will notice that their friends have stopped participating in their pastimes.

Financial issues

Individuals addicted to drugs are likely to suffer from financial problems. This is because they will make constant sacrifices to avoid running out of supply. Hence, they can go to large extents to borrow money to fuel their addiction.

Physical symptoms

Getting addicted to drugs comes with some symptoms that are visible to the human eye. For instance, you might observe a change in appearance which is different from how you know them.

They can also experience some signs like weight loss/weight gain, insomnia, change in appetite, cravings, constipation, trembling, sweats, etc.

 

Over time, these signs can worsen if the individual does not seek treatment. If you observe these signs in someone, or you’re experiencing them, it is best to get help from a reputable rehab so that you can get your life back on track.