The idea that someone you know and care about might be battling a drug or alcohol addiction can be frightening, and most of us don’t even want to admit that this could happen. However, substance use disorders are more common than most people think, with hundreds of thousands of people in the state of Massachusetts alone, suffering from some kind of drug or alcohol addiction.
While substance use disorders are a growing issue for Americans, the problem is made worse by attitudes of unnecessary judgment and stigma against addiction. These attitudes can also become internalized within those who become addicted to drugs or alcohol, which can, in turn, make them feel even more isolated and vulnerable to substance abuse. When we find out more about underlying causes and individual histories and symptoms, taking steps towards recovery is made quite a bit easier.
At Rockland Recovery in Weymouth, Massachusetts, we have a team of understanding and non-judgmental professionals ready to help with our addiction treatment programs. First, though, it’s important to recognize signs that a loved one may need drug and alcohol treatment.
What Are the Signs of Drug or Alcohol Addiction?
There are many reasons why any given individual may become addicted to substances, but understanding the effects of addiction can help us to be able to identify when someone needs to get help. There are some common psychological and physical symptoms that you can look for if you’re concerned that a loved one has a problem.
Psychological symptoms of addiction include:
- Changes in sleep, including insomnia and oversleeping
- Depression and anxiety
- Changes in social behaviors, either becoming more outgoing or more withdrawn, violent and aggressive behaviors
- Expressing suicidal thoughts, demonstrating body-focused repetitive behavior or self-harm
- Hallucinations or paranoia
Addiction produces physical symptoms such as:
- Changes in weight, eating habits, and appetite
- Decreased libido
- Digestive problems and stomach cramping
- Stumbling or changes in coordination
- Red eyes or dilated pupils
How Can an Individualized Outpatient Program Help?
While symptoms of substance use disorders may be quite challenging, going through recovery and building a sober lifestyle can seem even more daunting. Many people will fear losing their jobs, spending a lot of money, or explaining the time spent in rehab to those who may not react with kindness. All of these fears are normal, but that’s why an individualized outpatient program (IOP) can be just the kind of program needed for your loved one. In an IOP, clients at Rockland Recovery can benefit from:
- Separate day and night programs to provide clients with more flexibility in scheduling
- Ability to maintain a sense of freedom, with time spent outside of the center each day to maintain a job, hobbies, and social activities.
- Opportunity to practice skills learned in therapy, out in the real world
- Opportunity to expand one’s social network and support system
- Lower cost care than residential programs
Intensive outpatient treatment programs, also known as IOP drug and alcohol treatment programs, are designed to provide extended support to those who have already undergone detox and are looking to maintain stability and find their next steps forward. This program doesn’t require clients to commit all of their time to rehab, so it is easier to gain better insights into how one can move forward after graduating from the program. These programs are also offered regardless of whether someone is staying at a residential center or going home each day.
Get Help for a Loved One with Drug and Alcohol Treatment at Rockland Recovery
When learning that a loved one has a substance use disorder, you may feel helpless and unable to help the person yourself. This is why Rockland Recovery is ready with our drug and alcohol treatment program. We personalize treatment plans so that each person in our care receives the exact level of care that they need. If your loved one may need drug and alcohol treatment, contact our team by calling 855.732.4842 or completing our online form.