Addiction is a chronic, incurable condition that requires life-long management. Symptoms will worsen until you receive proper treatment, which can include group therapy activities, individual counseling, and family therapy.
Millions of Americans struggle with substance abuse and addiction issues each year. Not only is addiction relatively prevalent, but drug overdoses are also the leading cause of accidental death in the country. The opiate epidemic alone led to President Trump issuing a public health emergency in 2017.
Changes to medical insurance laws now require insurance companies to cover drug and alcohol treatment in the same manner that they cover medical problems, making a group therapy program in Mclean VA more accessible and affordable.
What is Addiction?
Addiction is a type of mental health disorder that is progressive in nature. Although there is no cure for addiction, symptoms can be successfully managed. Addiction causes changes to your brain chemistry, changing your brain’s pleasure and reward center. During addiction, your brain begins rewarding drug and alcohol use by releasing excessive amounts of neurotransmitters, which creates a rush and the pleasurable feelings associated with intoxication.
Over time, your brain begins to solely rely on your substance of choice in order to release the proper amounts of neurotransmitters. When you stop using your substance of choice, you begin to experience intense cravings and withdrawal symptoms, making it difficult to quit using without help. Your brain also begins associating drugs and alcohol with pleasure, so whenever you are reminded of your drug or substance of choice, you experience cravings.
Signs and symptoms of addiction can include:
- Concealing or hiding your drug and alcohol use
- Feeling regret, shame or guilt about your drug or alcohol use
- Experiencing blackouts or memory loss
- Spending the majority of your time or money on drugs or alcohol
- Engaging in dangerous behaviors as a result of your drug or alcohol use
- Having friends or family members confront you about your drug or alcohol use
What are Group Therapy Activities?
Addiction is best addressed by attending an inpatient or outpatient treatment program. Completing a treatment program greatly improves your chances of recovering. Both inpatient and outpatient programs utilize evidence-based and holistic treatments. Group therapy activities focus on improving your ability to communicate with others and express your thoughts and feelings in a healthy manner.
Group therapy activities can include things like nature therapy, arts and crafts, and dance movement therapy. Most group therapy activities are engaging and fun and allow you to form bonds with other group members. Substance abuse group therapy activities can also provide an additional support group and create a higher level of accountability.
Are You Struggling with a Substance Abuse Problem?
If you or a loved one is struggling with a substance abuse problem, reaching out for help is the first step towards recovery. Treatment, such as group therapy activities and individual counseling, provides you with the support and guidance you need to recover. Sagebrush Treatment Centers, the premier group therapy program Mclean, VA offers, understands what it takes to beat addiction. To find out more about our programs, call us today at 866.488.1156.
