Turning to substances during stressful times is often a learned coping mechanism used to numb difficult emotions. In therapy, you can explore the root of this stress and develop healthier, more effective ways to manage life’s challenges without relying on alcohol.
Substance Abuse
Get help with substance abuse
Becoming sober is a complex process that requires a high level of support.
The good news is substance abuse is treatable. ♡
You are Not Alone.
Nearly 21 million people
suffer from an addiction, yet only 10% receive treatment.
Know the Signs & Symptoms
Substance abuse is the act of over indulging in drugs or alcohol to the extent that it negatively impacts a person’s physical health, emotional functioning, and overall life. Common signs that your substance use is problematic may include:
- Unable to stop using drugs or alcohol
- Increased tolerance & need to use more
- Having daily urges or cravings to use drugs or alcohol
- Repeatedly missing work, school, or other activities
- Withdrawal symptoms when you stop or reduce substance use
- Engaging in risky behaviors or activities while under the influence
- Withdrawing from social or recreational activities you once enjoyed
- Continuing to use drugs despite the problems it’s causing in your life
- Devoting lots of time to obtaining, using or recovering from drugs or alcohol
Overcoming Substance Abuse
Substance abuse is a common problem with millions of U.S. adults diagnosed with a substance abuse disorder every year. Although overcoming this condition is challenging, sobriety is possible with personal commitment and compassionate support from a therapist. If you are one of the millions of people struggling to stop using drugs or alcohol, it’s important to know that you are not alone.
Reaching out and asking for help is an important first step to achieve sobriety. Heal Talk Therapy will support your healing and promote growth on your journey to a happier, healthier you.
Can I really Change?
Absolutely! Now, wouldn’t it be great if change happened right away? In most cases, that’s not how change works. It’s often a process. People typically go through various stages when trying to overcome addiction. Understanding the process of change and the different stages involved can help you know what to expect. This will increase self-compassion and patience while you are trying to get sober.
risk factors for substance abuse
- Trauma or Loss
- Lack of Support
- Low Self-Esteem
- Family History of Addiction
- History of Early Substance Use
- Symptoms of Depression or Anxiety
While not everyone who tries drugs or alcohol will develop a substance use disorder, higher exposure to substances increases your risk for abuse. Drug and alcohol addiction can start with experimental use that leads to social use, and in some cases can escalate into an addiction. Biological and social risk factors may also play a role in developing a substance use disorder.
Protective Factors for Substance Abuse
Protective factors can help reduce the risk of addiction or substance abuse. Some of these factors include:
- Consistent Employment
- Emotional Support
- Family Connectedness
- Parental Supervision
- Healthy Coping Skills
- Positive Social Support
REDUCE symptoms with SELF-CARE
Prior to getting sober, much of your time may have been spent using, seeking or recovering from drug or alcohol use. Now it’s imperative to fill your time with healthy self-care habits that support your recovery. Self-care is proven to decrease cravings, improve mental health, and enhance your overall quality of life.
Therapy for Substance Abuse
If you are dealing with substance abuse, you are not alone. There are several types of treatment available to you. Two common types of therapy used to treat substance abuse include Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Motivational Interviewing (MI).
- Cognitive Behavioral Therapy is a behavioral treatment that helps people identify how their thoughts & beliefs impact their feelings and behaviors. Our therapists at Heal Talk Therapy use many techniques, including CBT, to manage substance abuse. The goal is to recognize and address the problems that led you towards substance use.
- Another common technique used in substance abuse treatment is Motivational Interviewing (MI). This approach is effective for those with mixed feelings about making changes and also helps resolve those uncertain feelings. MI is useful in several different situations. For example, it’s helpful when you are stuck and not ready to make the change or doubt your abilities to make the change. Motivational Interviewing is also helpful when the benefits of change are unclear and making a change is not important to you.
Get Control of Your Substance Abuse.
HEAL TALK THERAPY CAN HELP you:
- Prepare to Change
- Learn Healthy Coping Skills
- Manage Cravings & Urges
- Prevent Relapse
- Understand Your Sobriety Journey
- Improve Self-Worth & Respect
- Build a Substance Free Lifestyle
- Repair Strained Relationships
- Promote Personal Growth & Understanding
SHIFT YOUR FOCUS TO ALLEVIATE NEGATIVE EMOTIONS
Redirecting your focus on what you can control or change will help reduce negative emotions that often lead to anger, anxiety, or depression. These uncomfortable feelings are often triggers to using drugs or alcohol. Concentrate on what you can control and let go of the rest!
When to Seek Help
- You can’t stop using drugs or alcohol
- You are having withdrawal symptoms
- You engage in unsafe behavior due to drugs and alcohol
- You miss social, work, or school obligations due to substance use
- You still continue to use despite the harm it is causing in your life
- You lose interest in activities you once enjoyed due to drugs or alcohol
Getting Sober Starts Here
The journey to sobriety isn’t always straightforward or easy, but it’s possible with the help of professional support. Heal Talk Therapy creates a comfortable environment where you can discuss your substance abuse problem and develop an effective plan to resolve and conquer your dependency on drugs and alcohol. Call our office now to begin working with a Certified Drug and Alcohol Counselor (CADC), and begin your journey towards overcoming your substance use disorder.
FAQs About Substance Abuse Therapy in Illinois
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