Every person has someone in their life battling addiction, whether it be a friend, family member, neighbor, or coworker. When this person struggles with this addiction, it may be hard to feel for them. There may be some resentment or questions about enabling them. This individual needs support and a good substance abuse treatment program. However, they also need compassion as they work to beat their addiction. Why is this important? What role does it play in their recovery?
Defining Compassion
A person who feels compassion for another recognizes that the other party is suffering. They want to do everything they can to ease the suffering and help the individual in this situation. Compassion is more than having empathy for this individual.
The person who sees this suffering in another actively works to help them. Addicts need this compassion, as they require help to overcome their dependence on the drug of choice. Men and women will find this compassion over at Vertical Treatment Centers.
The Benefits of Compassion in Substance Abuse Treatment
A person who feels compassion for an addict will work with this addict to find the underlying cause of their dependence on the drug. The cause may be trauma in their past, life circumstances, or another issue completely. When others are compassionate when dealing with the addict, this person feels accepted and supported. They can then begin working on the underlying causes that contribute to this addiction.
Overcoming an Addiction With the Help of Treatment
Many people assume addicts can stop taking their drugs of choice at any tie. However, the brain undergoes changes when a person uses drugs, even those medications prescribed by a physician. These changes make it difficult to stop using the drug.
At the same time, the addict is dealing with the psychological and emotional elements of their addiction. They need a holistic treatment approach to recover fully. If this person has any co-occurring mental health issues, they must also be addressed as part of a comprehensive treatment plan.
Treatment Options
Substance abuse treatment comes in many forms. Some individuals benefit from inpatient treatment, and other people respond better to a partial hospitalization program. Outpatient programs may also be offered, but many people find they must spend time in a facility while they detox. They need medical professionals on hand to help address any issues that come along with the detox process.
Once the detox period ends, the patient may take part in cognitive behavioral therapy, art therapy, counseling, or dual diagnosis therapy. Every treatment plan is unique, as every person is unique. What works for one individual won’t be appropriate for another. However, any substance abuse program needs to help addicts develop healthy coping skills. Doing so will help the addict overcome their drug dependency and remain sober over the long term.
Regardless of which treatment program an addict takes part in, the addict needs compassion. This does not mean family and friends should accept their behavior. This individual needs substance abuse treatment as soon as possible.
With the help of this treatment and compassion, an addict can begin the road to recovery. Encourage them to find the treatment and continue with this encouragement until they do. This is the best thing a person can do for someone they love who is struggling with this issue. Never give up on them, as they can recover with the right treatment and support.
