The Importance of Therapy for Individuals with Substance Abuse

Treating Substance Use Disorders (SUDs) is easier when you have support from others in your life. Your loved ones, family, and friends, can provide you with the emotional support you need to help you in your journey. 

However, to help you stay on your path to recovery and minimise the chances of relapse, professional support is crucial.

In this article, we explore the important role therapy plays in helping individuals manage SUDs.

Also read: The Connection between Substance Abuse and Anxiety Disorders

What is psychotherapy?

Psychotherapy, or therapy, focuses on the underlying causes of an individual’s mental health conditions or emotional concerns. With psychotherapy, individuals can address the root cause of their concerns, so that they may be able to create long-term changes in their lives.

Generally, therapy is a long-term process that requires active collaboration and commitment from the client. An individual must be committed to making long-term changes to their thoughts, attitudes, and behaviour, to get the most out of therapy.

Also read: Overcoming Addiction Through Therapy and Support Groups

Does therapy help with substance use disorders?

SUDs go beyond the body’s physical dependence on drugs or alcohol, there are several psychological and social factors at play too. While your body can overcome its physical dependence on drugs, social and psychological factors, such as stress, spending time with other people that also use substances, or going to specific places can trigger your chances of a relapse.

With the help of a therapist, however, you can learn how to manage these cravings better and move away from depending on drugs or alcohol to manage your emotions during distressing times. 

Understand yourself better

Psychotherapy helps you understand how experiences may be influencing your present behaviour, thought patterns, and beliefs. Hence, when you work with a therapist, you can understand what may be contributing to and reinforcing your dependence on substances.

When you understand why you use drugs, it is easier for you to identify coping mechanisms which can help you avoid this behaviour.

Know your triggers

When you understand your triggers, it is easier for you to ensure that you can avoid a relapse. Knowing what your triggers help you know which situations or places you should avoid, ensuring that you can avoid cravings.

As you work with your therapist, it will be easier for you to identify triggers that lead to cravings or urges, either due to distressing emotions or because it had become your go-to response for a specific situations. Your therapist will not only help you understand these triggers, but also help you come up with strategies to avoid these triggers.

Enhance your communication skills

SUDs can often affect one’s social skills and ability to interact with others. Working one-on-one with a therapist, not only helps you manage your condition better, but also rebuild specific social skills and abilities.

When you work on your social skills in a safe and comfortable space, it also helps you gain confidence in your abilities, and slowly build your self-esteem as well. 

Receive support throughout your journey

While you may have support from your friends and family, some may not understand how challenging the road to recovery can be. Even when you have been able to overcome your dependence, it can be hard to motivate yourself to stick to your recovery plan.

Your therapist can not only help you find the motivation you need, but also identify problematic patterns of behaviour which may be impeding your journey. 

Also read: Benefits of Support Groups and Peer Networks for Addiction Recovery

Overall, therapy equips you with skills to thrive in all aspects of your life. Recovery is a long journey, and while you may experience some relapses, it is important to stick to your plan. If you or someone you know has been struggling with substance use, a therapist can help you get the right support for your concerns. 

Sources:

https://www.psychiatry.org/patients-families/psychotherapy

https://counseling.online.wfu.edu/blog/the-role-of-substance-abuse-counselors-in-addiction-recovery/

https://www.healthline.com/health/substance-use/psychotherapy-for-drug-addiction#pros-cons

https://www.redoakrecovery.com/addiction-blog/benefits-of-individual-therapy-for-your-recovery/