For different forms of addiction treatment San Diego offers many options. Without regard to the severity of the dependency and the drug of choice, the first level of recovery will begin with cleansing the body of drugs. Detoxification will relieve the painful effects of withdrawal
For many addicted to heroin and morphine type drugs, methadone maintenance can be a preferred option. Methadone helps the addict to survive the cravings that come from withdrawal for 24 hours after not using. It hinders the brain from feeling sensations of pain. One drawback of methadone is the difficulty to stop using it. The symptoms are said to be worse than the original drug.
The 12 step program is another aid to recovery that has many advocates. It requires patients to attend meetings once they have completed detoxification. They have meetings in many locations and often someone is assigned a sponsor to help them through the process. The drawback however is that it views the the individual as forever the addict, essentially that one is never actually cured or recovered. Often people feel helpless while in the program. Although it may work for some, for others it is forever a reminder of the drug addicted years and continually experiencing powerlessness.
One can also choose to attend an outpatient facility. In combination with the 12 step program individuals attend group therapy among others. The person may attend the facility for a month or longer. Doctors and licensed counselors attempt to help the individual make changes to their life style as well as abstinence from the drug.
Detoxification can also occur while in an inpatient or residential facility. Here, the counselors are usually graduates of the program themselves and can relate to the struggles the recovering addict. Individuals can stay from a month to a year. Emphasis is placed on living clean when returning to their original environment.
Receiving Addiction Treatment San Diego can be a difficult but rewarding experience. Having a support group that knows what to expect and how to aid the addict is helpful. Explore the options for recovery and keep trying to find one that works for you or your loved one.