We focus on what’s causing the problem

sub·stance a·buse
noun: /ˈsəbstənsˌəˈbyoos/
overindulgence in or dependence on mood altering substances, especially alcohol, drugs, or prescription medications.

Substance abuse is a treatable condition. But closing the chapter on the disorder requires getting the proper care. To this end, it’s important to understand that substance abuse falls onto a severity spectrum. The most effective treatment approach is going to vary based on the specifics of your situation and is reflected in our philosophy.

Abuse vs. Misuse

substance abuse is a long-term use of alcohol or drugs, characterized by intoxication, inability to reduce consumption, and impairment in social or occupational functioning; broadly, alcohol or drug addiction.
Substance misuse is the use of alcohol, illegal drugs, or over-the-counter or prescription medications in a way that they are not meant to be used and could be harmful to you or others around you.

What may have started as a prescription to control, curb or relieve pain can sometimes end up controlling you. An array of cognitive, behavioral and physiological symptoms and problems can evolve or will occur with repeated usage. These may manifest in many ways and include, but are not limited to: an increased tolerance, desire to take more, or inability to refrain from how much or how frequently substances are taken. It is not uncommon for risky or illegal behavior to supersede common sense (such as filling false prescriptions or prescription ‘shopping’) to obtain larger quantities, or even impure forms or cheap substitutes, regardless of their source. Both substance misuse and substance abuse damage the mind and body in numerous ways and can have severe consequences. 1 Method Center is here to help you break the cycle.

Treatment Strategies

Alcoholism, addiction, and substance abuse/misuse are chronic disorders that are treatable and can be successfully managed. Research shows that interventions that employs a combination of medication and behavioral therapy (known as medication-assisted treatment) has proven to be the most successful, effective model for most patients with substance use disorder. A personalized, treatment will approach and address a multiplicity of issues that need attention including medical, psychiatric and social problems associated with the patient and the patient’s drug-use patterns. 1 Method is a MAT approved facility. We believe combining medically assisted treatment with therapeutic techniques is one of the best treatment approaches. Science and Psychology are only the beginning and we know that a ‘one size fits all’ model is not the answer. For nearly a decade, we have successfully worked with patients one by one, to guide people to recovery. At 1 Method Center, we work with you to create a program that works for you.

The 1 Method Center Difference

Our effective, three-fold approach begins with a carefully constructed plan that is designed to match your objectives and needs. 1-on-1 and group therapy, evidence-based services like medication management, psychiatry, and mental health screening as well as holistic treatments are just a few of the things that are key components of our successful treatment program. Your program maintains focus on your mind, body and spirit and helps them work together in harmony. The Stages of Change model is used in conjunction with your treatment along with our Health and Fitness Program with specific protocols for addiction, dual diagnosis, and co-occurring mental health issues. The roots of self-destructive pathology, including addiction, are tangled and deep. We work with you to help you uncover unresolved sources of pain, trauma and suffering. And then we dig deeper to discover their origins and core issues so that you may find the tools to break the cycle of negative behaviors that come with addiction. A stronger, healthier sense of self emerges as you gain clarity and develop new skills. We guide you on a path where you walk with a greater sense of yourself and can enjoy healthy, renewed relationships that may have been damaged along the way. Take the first step. Reach out to us today. Call or send us a message now.

How to Assess for Substance Use Disorder Treatment

According to DSM-5, a substance use disorder (SUD) involves patterns of symptoms caused by using a substance that an individual continues taking despite its negative effects. Based on decades of research, the DSM-5 points out 11 criteria that can arise from substance misuse. These criteria fall under four basic categories — impaired control, physical dependence, social problems and risky use:

Treatment Services

Using more of a substance than intended or using it for longer than you’re meant to.
Trying to cut down or stop using the substance but being unable to.
Experiencing intense cravings or urges to use the substance.
Needing more of the substance to get the desired effect — also called tolerance.
Developing withdrawal symptoms when not using the substance.
Spending more time getting and using drugs and recovering from substance use.
Neglecting responsibilities at home, work or school because of substance use.
Continuing to use even when it causes relationship problems.
Giving up important or desirable social and recreational activities due to substance use.
Using substances in risky settings that put you in danger.
Continuing to use despite the substance causing problems to your physical and mental health.

There are 3 Levels of Severity

Substance misuse worsens over time. The substance use disorder criteria explained in the DSM-5 allows clinicians to determine how severe a substance use disorder has become depending on how many symptoms are present. For example:

One symptom could indicate an individual is at risk.
Two or three criteria point to a mild substance use disorder.
Four or five symptoms show someone has a moderate substance use disorder.
Six or more criteria indicate a severe substance use disorder, which signals an addiction to that substance.

Knowing how severe a substance use disorder is can help physicians and addiction specialists determine the best course of treatment for the individual struggling with substance misuse.

Tolerance, as defined by either of the following:

A need for markedly increased amounts of the substance to achieve intoxication or desired effect.
A markedly diminished effect with continued use of the same amount of the substance.

Withdrawal, as manifested by either of the following:

The characteristic withdrawal syndrome for that substance (as specified in the DSM-5 for each substance).
The use of a substance (or a closely related substance) to relieve or avoid withdrawal symptoms.

Substance Abuse vs. Addiction

Per the National Institute of Drug Abuse (NIDA), addiction is defined as, “a chronic, relapsing disorder characterized by compulsive drug-seeking, continued use despite harmful consequences, and long-lasting changes in the brain. It is considered both a complex brain disorder and a mental illness. Addiction is the most severe form of a full-spectrum of substance use disorders, and is a medical illness caused by repeated misuse of a substance or substances.”

The NIDA and many treatment professionals no longer use the term ‘substance abuse’ and have replaced it with ‘substance misuse’ in order to help reduce the stigma and shame often associated with the disorder and to encourage more people to seek the qualified professional assistance they need. 1 Method is a high quality treatment program for those facing the challenge, of addiction and substance misuse.

An important aspect of effective substance abuse treatment is to provide the right treatment in the right way at the right time. Every situation is different and every treatment plan must take that into account. If you approach someone who’s just beginning to slip into SUD with the same techniques as a “hardcore” crack or heroin user, the treatment is misguided at best and harmful at worst. That’s a key element in what makes 1 Method such a highly sought-after program: We understand the nuances of substance use disorder and treat each case accordingly.

We hope you found this information helpful. Continue to explore our programs to learn more about what makes us unique. Call us with any questions or send us a message. We’re here for you anytime.