Addictions We Treat
South Coast Behavioral Health is dedicated to providing comprehensive care for individuals struggling with a wide range of addictions.
Addiction is a complex and chronic brain disorder characterized by the compulsive use of a substance or engagement in a behavior despite negative consequences. It affects millions of people worldwide, transcending age, gender, and socioeconomic boundaries. Common substances of addiction include alcohol, drugs (both legal and illicit), and prescription medications.
What Is Addiction?
Addiction, in the context of drugs and alcohol, is a complex and chronic brain disorder characterized by the compulsive and uncontrollable use of substances, despite negative consequences. It profoundly impacts an individual’s physical and psychological well-being, leading to a cycle of dependence that can be incredibly challenging to break. Here’s a closer look at the concept of addiction to drugs and alcohol:
DSM-V Criteria for Substance Use Disorder (SUD):
The Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, Fifth Edition (DSM-V), outlines criteria for diagnosing Substance Use Disorder (SUD). SUD is categorized based on the severity of symptoms and includes features like:
- Taking the substance in larger amounts or for longer periods than intended.
- A persistent desire or unsuccessful attempts to cut down or control substance use.
- Spending a significant amount of time obtaining, using, or recovering from the effects of the substance.
- Craving or a strong desire to use the substance.
- Failing to fulfill major role obligations at work, school, or home due to substance use.
- Continued use despite social or interpersonal problems caused or exacerbated by substance use.
- Giving up or reducing important social, occupational, or recreational activities because of substance use.
- Using substances in situations where it is physically hazardous.
- Continued use despite knowing it is causing or worsening a physical or psychological problem.
- Tolerance, as evidenced by needing more of the substance to achieve the desired effect or experiencing reduced effects with the same amount.
- Withdrawal symptoms when substance use is reduced or stopped.
People engage in substance use for various reasons, including:
- Pleasure and Recreation: Many individuals initially use substances to experience feelings of euphoria, relaxation, or excitement.
- Self-Medication: Some turn to drugs or alcohol to cope with underlying mental health issues like anxiety, depression, or trauma.
- Social and Peer Pressure: Social contexts and peer influence can contribute to substance use, particularly among young people.
- Genetic Factors: Genetic predispositions can increase susceptibility to addiction.
- Environmental Factors: Exposure to a substance-abusing environment can influence behavior.
- In the United States, the opioid epidemic remains a significant concern, with over 93,000 drug overdose deaths in 2020, a record high.
- Alcohol misuse contributes to approximately 95,000 deaths annually in the U.S., making it a leading cause of preventable deaths.
- Substance use disorders often co-occur with mental health conditions, emphasizing the need for integrated treatment approaches.
Understanding addiction is crucial to addressing its profound impact on individuals and society. Effective interventions include prevention, treatment, and support services aimed at helping individuals overcome substance use disorders and regain control of their lives.
Addictions We Treat
South Coast Behavioral Health is dedicated to providing comprehensive care for individuals struggling with a wide range of addictions. Our expertise extends to treating the following addictions:
Alcohol Addiction
Alcohol addiction, also known as alcoholism or Alcohol Use Disorder (AUD), is a chronic disease characterized by the inability to control alcohol consumption despite adverse consequences.
The development of alcohol addiction is influenced by various factors, including genetics, environmental factors, social and peer influences, and psychological factors like stress or trauma.
Symptoms of alcohol addiction can range from increased tolerance and withdrawal symptoms to neglecting responsibilities, continued use despite problems, and unsuccessful attempts to quit or cut down.
If you or someone you know exhibits signs of alcohol addiction, seeking help is essential. Early intervention can prevent the progression of the disorder and reduce the risk of severe health consequences, including liver disease, cardiovascular problems, and mental health issues.
Drug Addiction
Drug addiction, or Substance Use Disorder (SUD), involves the compulsive use of a substance despite negative consequences. It can affect physical and mental health, relationships, and overall quality of life.
Specific Drug Addictions We Treat:
Opioids
Opioids include prescription painkillers like oxycodone and illicit drugs such as heroin. They bind to opioid receptors in the brain and can be highly addictive.
Causes: Opioid addiction often starts with legitimate pain management but can progress to misuse and dependence.
Treatment: Treatment typically involves medications like methadone or buprenorphine, combined with counseling and therapy.
Cocaine
Cocaine is a powerful stimulant drug that produces intense euphoria and increased energy.
Causes: Cocaine addiction can develop due to its rewarding effects, leading to cravings and compulsive use.
Treatment: Behavioral therapy and counseling can help individuals overcome cocaine addiction.
Methamphetamine (Meth)
Meth is a synthetic stimulant that can lead to severe physical and mental health issues.
Causes: Meth addiction is often driven by the desire for increased energy, alertness, or weight loss.
Treatment: Treatment includes behavioral therapies and counseling to address the complex nature of meth addiction.
Benzodiazepines
Benzodiazepines are sedative medications used to treat anxiety and sleep disorders.
Causes: Benzodiazepine addiction can occur when these medications are used outside of prescribed guidelines.
Treatment: Medically supervised detox and gradual withdrawal, combined with therapy, can help individuals overcome benzodiazepine addiction.
At South Coast Behavioral Health, our tailored treatment programs are designed to address the specific needs of individuals struggling with alcohol or drug addiction, offering hope and support on the path to recovery.
The Consequences of Addiction
Addiction, whether it’s to substances like drugs and alcohol or behaviors like gambling or gaming, carries a host of devastating consequences that impact nearly every aspect of an individual’s life. Here are some of the significant consequences of addiction:
- Health Problems: Substance abuse can lead to severe health issues, including liver disease, cardiovascular problems, respiratory disorders, and mental health conditions. The toll on physical and mental health is substantial and can be life-threatening.
- Overdosing: Addiction increases the risk of overdosing on substances, which can result in coma, permanent brain damage, or death. Opioid and prescription drug overdoses are particularly common.
- Relationship Problems: Addiction often strains relationships with family, friends, and partners due to erratic behavior, lying, and neglect of responsibilities. Trust is eroded, and relationships can break down.
- Work and Academic Performance: Maintaining steady employment or academic progress becomes challenging for those struggling with addiction. Poor work or academic performance, absenteeism, and loss of jobs or scholarships are common consequences.
- Legal Issues: Addiction can lead to legal problems, including arrests and criminal charges related to drug possession, theft, or impaired driving. Legal issues can result in fines, probation, or incarceration.
- Financial Strain: The cost of sustaining an addiction, along with the loss of income and mounting legal fees, can lead to financial ruin. People may deplete savings, go into debt, or engage in illegal activities to fund their habit.
- Social Isolation: As addiction takes hold, individuals may withdraw from social activities and isolate themselves to hide their behavior. This isolation can exacerbate feelings of loneliness and depression.
- Neglect of Responsibilities: Addiction often leads to neglect of everyday responsibilities, such as caring for children, paying bills, and maintaining a household. This neglect can have dire consequences.
- Mental Health Deterioration: Addiction and mental health disorders often go hand-in-hand, with one exacerbating the other. Untreated mental health issues can worsen, leading to severe psychological distress.
Understanding these consequences underscores the urgency of addressing addiction through comprehensive treatment and support. Recovery is possible with the right resources and commitment, offering a chance to rebuild one’s life and regain a sense of well-being.
The Link Between Addiction and Mental Health
The link between addiction and mental health is complex and bidirectional. It is not uncommon for individuals struggling with addiction to also have co-occurring mental health disorders, and vice versa. Here’s an overview of this relationship:
Relationship Between Mental Health and Addiction:
- Self-Medication: Many individuals with mental health disorders may turn to substances as a form of self-medication to alleviate symptoms like anxiety, depression, or trauma.
- Increased Vulnerability: Mental health issues can increase vulnerability to addiction due to factors like impulsivity, poor coping mechanisms, or genetic predispositions.
- Impact on Recovery: Conversely, substance abuse can exacerbate or even trigger mental health symptoms, making recovery from both conditions more challenging.
Dual Diagnosis and Co-Occurring Disorders:
- Dual Diagnosis: This term refers to the coexistence of a substance use disorder (addiction) and a mental health disorder. It recognizes that these conditions often interact and influence each other.
- Co-Occurring Disorders: Co-occurring disorders refer to any combination of substance use and mental health disorders, encompassing a wide range of conditions such as depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, and more.
Stats and Facts about Co-Occurring Disorders:
- According to the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA), approximately 9.2 million adults in the U.S. have co-occurring disorders.
- People with co-occurring disorders often face more severe and complex challenges, leading to increased hospitalizations, homelessness, and a higher risk of suicide.
- Integrated treatment, which addresses both addiction and mental health, is considered the most effective approach. However, only about 7.4% of individuals with co-occurring disorders receive appropriate treatment for both conditions.
Recognizing and addressing the connection between addiction and mental health is crucial for effective treatment and recovery. Integrated care that provides comprehensive support for both conditions can lead to better outcomes and an improved quality of life for individuals facing these challenges.
Addiction Treatment Options
Addiction treatment encompasses a variety of approaches tailored to individual needs. Psychotherapies like cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) and motivational interviewing help individuals address the psychological aspects of addiction. Holistic treatments incorporate mind-body practices, nutrition, and exercise to promote overall well-being. Medication-assisted treatment (MAT) combines medications (e.g., methadone or buprenorphine) with counseling to manage cravings and withdrawal symptoms, commonly used for opioid addiction. Other options include support groups like Alcoholics Anonymous (AA), residential rehabilitation programs, and outpatient counseling. The choice of treatment depends on the type and severity of addiction, and a personalized approach often yields the best results.
Addiction Treatment at South Coast Behavioral Health
South Coast Behavioral Health (SCBH) is dedicated to providing comprehensive addiction treatment, offering a range of levels of care to meet the diverse needs of individuals seeking recovery. Here are the levels of care for addiction treatment offered at SCBH:
- Detoxification (Detox): SCBH provides medically supervised detoxification services, ensuring that individuals can safely withdraw from substances under medical supervision. The detox process helps manage withdrawal symptoms and prepares individuals for further treatment.
- Inpatient/Residential Treatment: This level of care offers 24/7 support and a structured environment for individuals in early recovery. It includes intensive therapy, medical care, and a safe space to address addiction and its underlying causes.
- Partial Hospitalization Program (PHP): PHP provides structured programming during the day, allowing individuals to return home or to a supportive environment at night. It offers a step-down approach from inpatient care while maintaining comprehensive treatment.
- Intensive Outpatient Program (IOP): IOP offers flexibility, allowing individuals to continue their daily lives while participating in intensive therapy and counseling sessions. It is ideal for those with stable living environments.
- Outpatient Treatment: This level of care is suitable for individuals with a strong support system and minimal risk of relapse. It provides ongoing therapy, counseling, and support to maintain recovery.
SCBH’s treatment approach combines evidence-based therapies, holistic modalities, and individualized care plans. It focuses on addressing the physical, psychological, and emotional aspects of addiction. With a team of experienced professionals, SCBH supports individuals through each stage of their recovery journey, helping them build the skills and resilience needed to maintain lasting sobriety. Contact us today to start your journey to recovery.
Get A Confidential Assessment From A Recovery Specialist
Addiction Treatment in Orange County, CA
The road to recovery from addiction begins with acknowledging the issue and seeking help. Finding suitable treatment is a crucial step towards overcoming addiction and reclaiming a healthy and fulfilling life. There are various treatment options available, including inpatient and outpatient programs, counseling, therapy, and support groups. The right approach often depends on the type and severity of addiction, as well as individual needs and preferences.
This journey towards recovery is not without challenges, but with the right resources and support, it is entirely possible to break free from the grip of addiction and build a brighter future.
We provide addiction treatment for men within our medical detox and residential treatment centers in Irvine, CA.
We offer addiction treatment for women at our medical detox and residential treatment centers in Huntington Beach, CA.
We provide addiction treatment for men within our residential inpatient facility in Costa Mesa, CA.
We provide addiction treatment during our PHP and IOP programs in Newport Beach, CA.
