Due to the complex nature of the disease, there is no cure-all solution for addiction. That’s why different addictions may be treated with different approaches. In this article, we’re going to be exploring the differences between rehab for alcohol addiction and rehab for drug addiction.
As we mentioned above, addiction is an incredibly complex disease and no individuals are the same. This means treatment often varies from person-to-person, even for those with the same type of addiction.
Getting Help with an Alcohol vs Drug Addiction
To begin with, one of the biggest differences between treatment for alcohol and drug addiction is the way in which social acceptance prevents many people from reaching out for help.
Because alcohol is legal and many controlled drugs are not, many people with drug addictions do not come forward to get help because they fear they may get in trouble once they tell someone. We’re here to support you through the process of drug rehabilitation.
We live in a culture where drinking alcohol is socially acceptable, and binge drinking at weekends is the norm. Unfortunately, this means identifying an alcohol addiction is a lot more difficult, even when it is hiding in plain sight.
Society also makes drinking alcohol seem less serious than taking drugs, so many people assume alcohol addiction is less serious than drug addiction and don’t bother getting the help with alcohol rehab they so desperately need.
Similarly, due to the lack of awareness around prescription drug addiction, many people do not consider the risks, simply because it has been prescribed by a trusted doctor. However, like any other drugs, the consequences of prescription drug abuse can be severe. Seek advice for prescription drug rehab at our addiction rehabilitation centre.
Alcohol vs Drug Detox
Treatment typically differs the most during the detox stage. This is because withdrawal from different substances can produce a variety of symptoms. Withdrawal from alcohol can be potentially life-threatening and requires close medical supervision.
In contrast, drug withdrawal symptoms may be less severe, but can still be uncomfortable and require medical attention.
For example, withdrawal from alcohol provides both psychological and physical symptoms, while withdrawal from cannabis provides just psychological symptoms. Contact us for cannabis rehab in the UK.
Symptoms of Alcohol Withdrawal
- Anxiety
- Low mood or mood swings
- Nausea
- Sleep deprivation
- Sweating
- Aches and pains
- Shaking
- Retching
- Seizures
- Delirium Tremens
Symptoms of Cannabis Withdrawal
- Sleep problems
- Anxiety and restlessness
- Irritability and anger
This means someone undergoing alcohol detox will require additional medical attention and support to ensure the safe removal of the substance and make the process more comfortable.
Additionally, depending on the type and severity of the addiction. For example, individuals with alcohol addictions may require acamprosate, disulfiram, naltrexone and nalmefene to reduce withdrawal symptoms.
Individuals with drug addictions may also require medications to reduce withdrawal symptoms, such as benzodiazepines, antidepressants and clonidine.
How Treatment for Drug and Alcohol Addiction Differs
At Acquiesce, our inpatient rehab programme focuses less on the substance of choice, but rather the root behind the addiction.
This root can be different for everyone and we understand that each individual has their own unique set of circumstances surrounding their addiction. This means treatment varies from person-to-person, even if they’re both addicted to alcohol or the same drug.
Because no two addictions are the same, we offer a wide range of approaches designed to target different aspects of addiction. These treatments include:
Individual Intervention
Individual intervention is one-on-one treatment that focuses on the individual’s mental health, triggers and history. This looks at the root cause of the addiction and can help the individual to gain a better understanding of their thoughts and feelings.
Group Therapy
Group therapy consists of multiple individuals from the rehab program who are facing similar challenges. These sessions are facilitated by experienced professionals in a secure and therapeutic environment.
The benefits of group therapy include:
- Building bonds
- Alleviating isolation
- Sharing experiences
- Providing motivation to remain abstinent
Many of these techniques are designed to eliminate negative behaviours and promote healthy, positive changes.
12-Steps Therapy
The 12 step programme is a highly effective code of behaviour to live by in order to aid recovery.
This approach helps individuals acknowledge their problem and understand that there is a solution available. It also encourages reflection on past mistakes, providing guidance on how to make amends and transform negative behaviours and thoughts to prevent relapse.
Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) Approaches
Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT) is a type of psychotherapy that incorporates psychological principles. It assists individuals in linking their thoughts, emotions, and behaviours, thereby empowering them with the necessary skills, tools, and resources to manage their addiction on a daily basis.
Through CBT, individuals have the opportunity to examine the psychological reasons behind their actions and behaviours, as well as the connection between their thought patterns and their cocaine addiction. This enables them to break negative patterns and form healthier habits.
Motivational Interventions
This type of therapy aims to enhance an individual’s drive to make positive changes and better life decisions.
Psycho-Educational Groups
Psychoeducation groups aim to provide individuals with information and understanding about substance abuse and other underlying factors that contribute to addiction. The knowledge acquired in these groups helps individuals establish and sustain sobriety.
Holistic Therapy
Holistic therapy addresses the entire individual, rather than solely the addiction. It delves into the intricate nature of addiction by employing a combination of methods that concentrate on both the mind and body.
Family Support
Research has found that including family in the recovery process leads to greater success and more positive long-term outcomes, as the individual feels more supported.
Family support in treatment aims to provide care and support for both the individual and their loved ones, offering a safe space for tough conversations through visits and communication. It also provides emotional support for those who are facing challenges in their journey towards recovery.
Some individuals may require all of these therapies as part of their treatment, while others may need just a few.
Alcohol and Drug Addiction Treatment at Acquiesce
If you think you may be struggling with a drug or alcohol addiction, please don’t hesitate to get in touch with our team of experts at Acquiesce for a free, confidential consultation.
Here you can speak to one of our recovery practitioners to discuss the best course of treatment for your addiction and create a bespoke recovery plan at our luxury accommodation centre in Bolton.
