Help with Addiction: How Virtual Therapy Can Lead to Recovery
Author:
Danielle Boland
Clinical Review by:
Published:
Aug 15, 2024
,
07:50 p.m.
ET
Updated:
Sep 12, 2024
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05:20 p.m.
ET
Virtual therapy can help with addiction treatment. Individuals who struggle with addiction get access to licensed counselors, clinicians, and therapists who will teach them about addiction, coping strategies, and relapse prevention. Virtual therapy leads to successful recovery in various ways, including mindfulness practices and the treatment of co-occurring disorders.
Virtual therapy can also treat a plethora of mental health conditions, including anxiety, depression, substance abuse, trauma, and bipolar disorder. It helps reduce the stigma associated with mental health. Individuals can receive therapy discreetly without running into someone they know.
Addiction rates in the U.S.
Most of the addiction rates in the U.S. are related to alcohol and drug abuse. According to the National Survey on Drug Use and Health, 29 million adults struggle with substance abuse. Twenty-one million people admitted they were in recovery. That same study also revealed that men are more likely to use drugs than women. However, women are more susceptible to addiction than men are when they rely on them.
When it comes to behavioral addiction, the GenSight Mental Health Monitor shared the results of a nationwide survey from Myriad Genetics, Inc. Seventy-seven percent of Americans have had at least one addiction or unhealthy coping mechanism. In addition, 94% of Americans agreed that these addictions cause co-occurring mental health problems. These behavioral addictions range from social media to binge eating and gambling.
What is addiction?
Addiction refers to an uncontrollable urge for an activity or substance. This chronic condition can affect many aspects of an individual's life, including their mental and physical health, social relationships, and work life. According to the American Society of Addiction Medicine, addiction is a complex disease that stems from the brain circuits, genetics, personal experiences, and the environment.
Addiction includes behavioral addiction or substance addiction. Gambling, Internet, overeating, sex, pornography, and shopping addictions are examples of behavioral addictions. Substance addiction relates to alcohol, drugs, and cigarettes. Behavioral addiction is similar to substance addiction, aside from the fact that the individual isn't addicted to the substance, but rather to the feeling or behavior brought on by the compulsive act.
Addiction causes and leading predisposition factors
Since addiction is complex, it can be hard to pinpoint the cause. Addiction develops due to changes in the brain's chemistry. Substances and behaviors can alter the brain, including the reward center. Your brain releases a chemical called dopamine, which makes you feel euphoric.
Addiction occurs when the cycle repeats. Individuals seek out these activities and substances because they provide temporary relief. This leads to an unhealthy pattern of seeking more pleasure from the activity or substance instead of healthier coping mechanisms.
This changes the brain's chemistry over time. The individual becomes desensitized to the negative effects. They only want the activity or substance to produce a positive effect. Other factors that contribute to addiction include environmental risk factors, genetics, and mental health conditions.
Addiction treatment methods and options
Addiction manifests differently in each person. Because of this, addiction requires an individualized approach to treatment. Substance addiction is more based on chemical and physical dependencies, whereas behavioral addiction is centered on compulsive acts. Treatment should address the individual's unique situation. Below are the following treatment options for behavioral and substance addictions:
Substance Addiction Treatment
As previously mentioned, substance addiction is more complex. This type of addiction involves drugs, alcohol, or prescription medication. Treatment starts with detoxification. Supervision is required to ensure the safety and health of the individual, especially in serious situations.
Detoxification is followed by rehab. This type of treatment involves individual, group, and medicated-assisted treatment. This combination of therapies treats the psychological and physical components of addiction.
Group treatment plays an integral role in addiction recovery. During sessions, individuals can share their experiences and stories with others. Group therapy creates a sense of community and support, and it promotes accountability.
In some situations, long-term care is available via sober living environments. This prevents relapse and motivates individuals to maintain recovery. Extended therapy offers ongoing support, a safe place, and a substance-free environment to adapt the skills and coping strategies taught during treatment. Substance addiction treatment is a holistic approach that connects the mind and body and provides individuals with a successful path to recovery.
Behavioral Addiction Treatment
Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) is commonly used to treat behavioral addictions. This type of therapy shows individuals how to identify their triggers and rewire their responses. In addition to CBT, group therapy and support groups can also be beneficial. They connect individuals with others who face similar challenges. This provides a safe space for mutual encouragement and shared experiences. It also helps keep individuals accountable during their recovery.
Virtual therapy has become an integral solution for treating behavioral addiction due to its flexibility. Birches Health specializes in virtual therapy to treat behavioral addictions. Treatment options include individual counseling and group sessions. Individuals can speak to licensed clinicians via the online platform.
Virtual Therapy
Virtual therapy is a talk-based therapy that occurs online or over the phone. It offers a combination of treatment options. It can also address a wide variety of topics, including trauma, stress, anger, and mental health disorders. This can be implemented in both substance and behavioral addiction treatments.
Virtual therapy is a beneficial option for those who don't have access to a local therapist or counseling center. It reduces the barrier to receiving effective treatment. It also gives individuals greater access to a wide variety of clinicians who specialize in different addictions and disorders.
You can take the first step with Birches Health today:
You can email hello@bircheshealth.com to connect with the Birches team right away.
One added benefit of virtual therapy is that it destigmatizes mental health care. Unfortunately, this stigma is still around, especially with mental health matters. Individuals don't have to worry about running into someone they notice on their way to a therapy session. They get the privacy they need.
Virtual therapy is also a convenient option for those with work, school, and other responsibilities that might impact treatment. Individuals can quickly get an appointment with doctors with little to no wait times. There’s no need to worry about childcare, transportation, or taking time off.
Taking the first step to addiction recovery
Admitting your addiction is the first step toward recovery. Some individuals might start their treatment at a detox center or a substance addiction center. Both are safe places to understand your addiction and admit that your life is unmanageable.
You can also reach out for support. Find a sponsor or support group you feel comfortable with. The first step also includes speaking with a therapist. You'll learn healthy coping skills to prevent relapse.
Virtual treatment for addiction is also available. Even though you might feel powerless, hope is not lost. You can work with a licensed clinician to find alternative ways to cope with daily stressors. An assessment from Birches Health can kickstart your recovery.
Sources:
Advantages of Telehealth in Drug and Alcohol Counseling
What is the Definition of Addiction?
Addiction: What It Is, Causes, Symptoms, Types & Treatment
