Drug Addiction Treatment
While some may view drug addiction as a sign of weakness, it is actually a disease that changes the functioning of the reward structure of the brain. Here are some Drug Addiction Home Treatment.
What is Drug Addiction?
Drug addiction, also known as substance dependence, is a chronic brain disease where the sufferer compulsively seeks the drugs despite the dangerous consequences. It is considered a brain disease as the drugs change the structure and chemical composition of the brain leading to lasting damage and harmful behavioral patterns.
It has been a part of human society for thousands of years since the first “mind- or physiology-altering” substances came into popular practice. Even alcohol is a type of drug, making alcoholism a form of drug addiction. Drug addiction also applies to substances like:
- Heroin
- Cocaine
- Tobacco
- Barbiturates
- Amphetamines
- Ecstasy
- Benzodiazepines
Symptoms
Substance dependence is characterized by intense cravings or desires for the drug, typically due to the physical and addictive nature of the chemicals themselves, as well as their psychological effects on the mind. This dual desire, which can easily lead to addiction, makes drugs extremely difficult to give up, but the long-term and potentially deadly consequences make the treatment of drug addiction so important.
Overcoming the symptoms and preventing the ongoing use of these substances is difficult, time-consuming, and even painful at times.
Treatment
1. Traditional solutions for drug addiction include:
2. Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT)
3. Antidepressants
4. Going “cold turkey”
5. Replacement substances (such as methadone instead of heroin)
6. 12-step programs
Art Therapy
Many researchers suggest behavioral alterations as the most effective remedies for drug addiction, and art therapy has gained a great deal of popularity. [6] Art therapy allows addicts to build self-esteem and confidence, avoid a negative response to common triggers, and to step outside of their destructive lifestyle to create and appreciate beauty. This therapy has been linked to lower levels of depression and anxiety, both of which frequently trigger substance abuse.
Yoga
Yoga is one of the effective ways to cleanse the body and mind of stressors and toxins. [9] For recovering drug addicts, the repetitive and calming nature of yoga helps them change their mindset and reactivity, channeling destructive energy into positive movements and tangible improvements to their body.
Hypnosis
Although some people seem skeptical when hypnosis is brought up, there have been numerous reports and studies on the impact of hypnotherapy on drug addiction. There is a clear benefit of hypnotherapy over other forms of cognitive or behavioral therapy. This depends on your susceptibility to being hypnotized, the severity of your addiction, and various other factors.
Apple Cider Vinegar
Apple cider vinegar (ACV) is popularly used for reducing cravings for smoking cigarettes and other drugs. This can be attributed to the chemical make-up of vinegar, including acetic acid and malic acid. While research is still ongoing concerning the full impact of ACV, its ability to stop cravings and improve the immune system of the body is significant.
Protein and Omega-3
Protein and omega-3 fatty acids are key components of a healthy diet, particularly for someone looking for relief from drug addiction. Drugs essentially fry the neurotransmitters in the brain, and for those to be rebuilt, the body needs a solid base of healthy protein to get the mind in proper shape. All the tissues and cells in your body that have been damaged or destroyed by drug addiction must also be repaired. Omega-3s help to protect the body from additional stress during the recovery period.
Milk Thistle
Milk thistle is a very important herb for improving and protecting the liver, which often suffers as the result of drug addiction. [7] Your liver works to filter your blood, and many of these substances travel through the body via the blood and are thus filtered into the liver! Milk thistle has hepato-protective properties and can help treat cirrhosis and hepatitis, as well as strengthen the liver’s ability to fight off environmental toxins.
