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You Need Help….How to Get Started?


November 2017 GenPsych

Addiction Treatment New Jersey

In today’s America, drug and alcohol abuse is a severe problem for people of all ages. If you find yourself in a situation where you can’t stop taking drugs or consuming alcohol, you may have a problem. If your substance abuse has had an adverse effect on your job, relationship with your family or friends, it may be time to seek professional help. For most people, asking for help is something that does not come naturally. It may make you feel weak or needy. It may be time to talk about how you can ask for help with your substance issue.

It is well known that drugs and alcohol change parts of the brain, including the part of the brain responsible for self-control. The effect on the brain is one of the reasons it is tough to stop substance abuse alone. If you don’t want to ask your friends or family for help, an excellent place to start could be your primary care doctor. Your doctor may have some experience in this area and could refer you to an addiction specialist. Be honest with your doctor and explain the truth about what is going on with your substance abuse. If you and your doctor determine you do need help, the next step is seeking out a treatment center.

What to look for in a treatment center?

There are many things to look for in a treatment center but here are some essential questions you should consider:

Do they provide in-patient or out-patient treatment?

How long is the substance abuse program?

Is the program state licensed and accredited?

Will the programs schedule fit with my schedule and obligations?

Is the program a good fit for your specific needs?

You will no doubt have many more questions. Some programs allow you continue working and fulfilling your family obligations while receiving treatment around your schedule. Other programs require you to live on-site 24/7 until you recover. An excellent treatment center will answer all your questions with relevant answers and even bring up some ideas you didn’t consider.

Costs and payment options vary widely also. Check with your health insurance company to see what treatment benefits are available. Some states have special programs for lower-income individuals which can be free or based on current income. Getting treatment should not be a financial decision, there are resources available for everyone to make treatment affordable.

Starting Treatment

Once you have decided on a treatment center and have taken that huge first step to recovery, you are on your way. The drugs or alcohol will take some time to work their way out of your system. Certain substances will require a detox period which can be challenging but is safe. Withdrawals are a possibility, but the professionals at treatment centers are very experienced with this process and know how to make it as comfortable as possible.

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