Navigating Substance Abuse Treatment Options

Do you need help with substance abuse addiction, or do you know someone who does? Trying to navigate through and understand all the terminology surrounding addiction treatment can be confusing. It helps to understand some basics.

Despite being the oldest treatment type, 12-Step programs which include, for example, AA (Alcoholics Anonymous) or NA (Narcotics Anonymous), show limited success. 12-step meetings are non-research based, peer-run meetings that cover twelve actions or “steps” that people follow to work toward sobriety. Meetings are voluntary, free and members are expected to help each other. The underlying belief is that addiction cannot be cured and that those addicted to alcohol or drugs must admit they are powerless to their addiction and should always continue to attend meetings to maintain their sobriety. Over the years, some people have found sobriety with 12-Step programs while others have not found the program beneficial.

In addition to 12-step programs, there are other peer-led groups, some of which are faith-based. Most of these are not based on research, are voluntary, and are usually single faceted in that they only offer group sessions with no professional intervention or attention to underlying causes of addiction.

First are residential programs. Residential programs, sometimes called in-patient treatment programs that allow individuals to receive 24-hour care. These programs are typically more intense and offer increased structure and less risk of early relapse. Residential programs vary greatly with some following a basic 12-step curriculum while others offer research-based treatment programs. Particulars and the overall quality of programs vary greatly as well, with the amount of class time, group sessions, and one-on-one time with a professional mental health provider to address individual issues. Programs that promote overall health and well being are called holistic treatment and sometimes incorporate meditation, spa treatment, exercise or other activities.

The second professional treatment modality is intensive outpatient programs (IOP). IOPs are developed to allow an individual to receive several hours of substance abuse treatment per week while living at home and maintaining employment and family responsibilities.

The third professional program is outpatient (OP). OP programs are usually once a week, offering ongoing direction and support for someone with addiction issues.

Gulf Breeze Recovery strives to be the leader in quality substance abuse treatment by delivering a comprehensive continuum of care incorporating all three professional programs including residential treatment, intensive outpatient programs, and outpatient programs. Each Gulf Breeze Recovery guest is evaluated and then a plan of care, specific to their needs is developed. By incorporating all three treatment methods, care can be stepped down or stepped up if needed so that the individual has the opportunity not only to achieve, but to maintain long-term sobriety.

Gulf Breeze Recovery provides holistic treatment incorporating the most proven methods to achieve long-term sobriety and to develop a healthy lifestyle. Gulf Breeze Recovery believes you truly can recover from addiction.

If you or someone you care about, has an ongoing history of substance use and relapse, Gulf Breeze Recovery offers hope and help. Contact us at Gulf Breeze Recovery or call: 833.551.2356 to speak to an addiction expert to learn more about our programs that have helped so many people overcome their addiction, rediscover their dreams and embrace life.