Therapies

A common misconception surrounding addiction treatment is that rehab is a place for people to complete a detox programme. Whilst this is one key aspect of substance addiction support, a detox-only treatment programme runs the risk of side-stepping the psychological side of things. Therapy can be an essential component in addiction recovery, leading to a greater understanding of self, a building of resilience and a reduction in future relapse risk. A well-rounded rehab programme incorporates a range of therapeutic interventions in a targeted and considered manner.

The ‘Disease’ Model of Addiction

The National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA) defines addiction as ‘a chronic, relapsing disorder characterised by compulsive drug seeking and use despite adverse consequences.’ [2] An increasing number of clinical specialists are understanding addiction as a ‘chronic disorder.’  This conceptualisation of addiction is very significant. Primarily, this suggests that addiction is perceived as a medical condition. If addiction is categorised as a medical condition, this suggests that its symptoms can, therefore, be managed with appropriate treatment. This ‘disease’ model of addiction authenticates the need for individuals to access specialist interventions. This includes engagement with therapy.

Addiction and Mental Health

There are a plethora of reasons why individuals seeking addiction treatment may benefit from therapy. Whilst there is not a clear-cut causal relationship between mental health and addiction, the two are irrevocably linked. Multiple studies have found that individuals with substance use disorders are more likely to experience a mental health condition. For example, over two-thirds (70%) of people starting addiction treatment in England between 2021 and 2022 reported a mental health treatment need. Experiencing addiction alongside a mental health condition is referred to as a dual diagnosis. Commonly occurring dual diagnoses include:

• Anxiety
• Bipolar disorder
• Borderline personality disorder (BPD)
• Depression
• Obsessive compulsive disorder (OCD)
• Post traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)
• Schizophrenia

The frequency of dual diagnosis has been theorised in a myriad of ways. In short, however, the commonality of comorbid mental health conditions in addiction treatment indicates that:

• Substances and addictive behaviours are often used to manage psychological distress
• Substances and addictive behaviours are often used to manage mental health symptoms
• Mental health conditions and addictions can be triggered by the same event
• Addiction can cause a worsening of mental health

Whether reduced mental wellbeing or addiction comes first, the two often come in tandem. This makes regulating the psychological impacts of addiction paramount for successful recovery.

Negative and positive psychological symptoms of addiction

A lot of addiction symptoms are related to psychological health. Specific drugs can impact the way we think and feel in both the short and long-term. Two of the keyways this plays out is through the drug-based development of negative symptoms and positive symptoms.

Negative symptoms are mental health effects that suggest a lessening or absence of normal behaviours and functions.’ Examples include:

• Anhedonia
• Catatonia
• Flat affect
• Social withdrawal
• Apathy
• Lethargy
• Lack of motivation

These symptoms can be associated with many types of drugs, including stimulants, depressants, opioids and prescription medications.

Positive effects are mental health symptoms that are additional to ‘normal’ functioning. These are often associated with psychosis-related conditions such as schizophrenia. Positive symptoms may look like:

• Hallucinations
• Delusions
• Hyperactivity
• Disorganised thoughts
• Disorganised speech

These symptoms are often linked to hallucinogenic substances such as LSD, ketamine and cannabis.

The type of substance being used can alter the psychological effects you may encounter. For some people, these are minimal. For others (such as in cases of hallucinations) they can be very serious and require professional intervention to be appropriately managed.

The type of therapy you engage with during rehab depends on a range of factors. A specialist service will be able to advise you on potential options following an assessment of your current needs. A range of factors will assess the efficacy of each type of therapy. This may include:

• The client’s previous engagement with therapy
• The addiction(s) they may be dealing with
• How long they have been dealing with their addiction
• Mental health treatment need
• Physical health treatment need
• Current safety level
• Previous exposure to traumatic events

For example, an individual who has been in 1-1 counselling for low mood may be classed as having treatment-resistant depression. In that instance, they may be advised to try CBT. Similarly, someone dealing with a substance use disorder may be encouraged to try 12-Step alongside individual therapy. Each form of therapy has benefits that can be relevant in different contexts.

Accessing therapy for addiction can catalyse a plethora of positive life changes. Whilst one of the key motivations is often to work towards sobriety, this is not the only benefit that you can take away from therapy. Following engagement with addiction therapy, you may also identify a range of wellbeing effects, including:

• Breaking difficult cycles
• Identifying stress triggers
• Identifying underlying factors contributing to addiction development
• Increased distress tolerance
• A better self-relationship
• The opportunity to experience (and provide) peer support
• New coping mechanisms
• Ongoing management of physical health conditions
• Ongoing management of mental health conditions
• Offering a new perspective
• A new sense of accountability and control
• Reduced risk of relapse

Therapy at UKAT London Clinic

If you or someone you care about is struggling with addiction, don’t wait to seek help. Reach out to us today. Our dedicated team is here to support you every step of the way, providing the guidance and resources needed to embark on a successful journey to recovery. With our expert assistance, you can overcome addiction and reclaim a healthier, happier life. Take the first step toward healing, and contact us now.