Prescription Drug Rehab and Addiction in Charleston, SC

Prescription drug addiction is a problem that has grown to epidemic proportions in the United States. Though Americans make up only five percent of the world’s total population, about 75 percent of prescription drug use takes place in this country. In fact, research by the National Institute on Drug Abuse indicates that about 52 million Americans have misused prescription medication in their lifetime; unfortunately, only a small percentage receive the prescription drug rehab they may need to overcome the problem.

Commonly Abused Drugs

Although prescription drug addiction can take many forms, the most commonly abused drugs tend to be opiate medications. These powerful painkillers are highly addictive – according to the Center for Disease Control, over two million people in the United States struggle with a substance use problem involving opiates. Other widely-abused drugs include anti-anxiety medications such as Xanax and Klonopin, as well as stimulants such as Adderall. No matter what medication is being abused, prescription drug rehab can help individuals successfully overcome their addiction.

The Dangers of Dependence

It doesn’t take long for prescription drug abuse to evolve into addiction, which is marked by the inability to quit using a drug in spite of the negative consequences. With continued misuse, the body becomes dependent on a prescription drug, which means that the brain begins to require the drug for normal function. Abusing a prescription drug brings the risk of accidental overdose, but it also can lead to a host of other physical problems such as liver damage, kidney problems and cognitive impairment.

Getting Help

Addiction is a chronic disease that impacts the brain’s structure and chemical balance, and self-discipline isn’t enough to conquer a prescription drug addiction. According to the National Institute on Drug Abuse, treatment is critical for long-term recovery. Addiction treatment at a Charleston drug treatment center usually takes place in three phases:

. Medical detox: In this first phase of treatment, the body is allowed to rid itself of any traces of -the abused prescription drug. Medications may be provided to block drug cravings and minimize some of the uncomfortable effects of withdrawal.
. Rehabilitation: After detox is complete, prescription drug rehab can begin. While detox focuses on breaking the physical dependence on a drug, rehab addresses the underlying issues that may have fueled the addiction. Rehab also helps clients develop the coping techniques needed to deal with triggers and avoid relapse in the future.
. Aftercare: Once a client leaves the prescription drug rehab center, an individual aftercare plan can help make the early weeks and months of recovery go smoothly. Aftercare may involve attendance at a 12-step program or a support group; other forms of aftercare include continued therapy or a stay at a sober living facility.

Taking an Individualized Approach

Every case of prescription drug addiction is a bit different, and a one-size-fits-all approach to treatment won’t work for everyone. A holistic approach to treatment looks at each client’s individual needs and helps to heal the body, mind and spirit. In addition to providing medication, psychotherapy and behavioral therapy, a quality Charleston treatment program should address the need for housing assistance, legal help and medical care that can clients started off on the right foot after leaving the treatment center.

The Power of Treatment

Although it can be difficult to ask for help with a prescription drug addiction, the benefits of entering treatment are well worth it. A quality Charleston treatment program can help clients increase their self-esteem, enhance their mental and physical health, and improve their overall well-being. Not only can treatment lead to long-term recovery, but it can also lead to a better quality of life. Just give our recovery advocates at Charleston Drug Treatment Centers a call today at (843) 480-9956 for more information.