Consuming a glass or two of wine each week is considered normal for men. However, if you find yourself finishing multiple bottles of wine or any other alcoholic beverages daily, it may be alarming, as this could indicate a substance use disorder. Fortunately, there are various treatments available for substance use disorder once it has been diagnosed in a man. Let's explore these treatments in more detail.
Substance use disorder, commonly referred to as drug addiction, is a mental health condition in which drugs profoundly affect your brain, compelling you to use them even when you do not wish to. Over time, this condition progresses as you consume recreational drugs such as nicotine, marijuana, alcohol, cocaine, and heroin. Eventually, you lose control over your consumption, continuing to use these drugs despite knowing that the consequences can be life-threatening.
When addressing drug addiction, it's important to recognize that the issue is not solely a matter of willpower or morality. Addiction is a powerful and complex disease.
Men grappling with substance use disorders cannot simply quit, even if they earnestly desire to. However, there are specific treatments available for substance use disorders. Let's delve into them below.
Diagnosis of Substance Use Disorder
To diagnose substance use disorder in a man, a comprehensive evaluation is required, which includes an assessment by a psychiatrist, psychologist, or licensed alcohol and drug counselor. Blood, urine, and other tests may be utilized to assess drug use, but these tests do not serve as diagnostic tests for addiction. Nonetheless, they may be employed for treatment and recovery monitoring.
Treatments for Substance Use Disorder:
Not all treatments for substance use disorder are suitable for every man dealing with drug addiction. Different treatments are designed to cater to the unique needs of individuals with this condition. Some of the most common treatments that can set a man on the path to recovery include:
Detoxification
Medically assisted detox is a procedure that allows individuals to safely rid their bodies of addictive substances in a controlled environment. This is especially beneficial because substance withdrawal can often lead to unpleasant or even life-threatening physical symptoms. It is important to note that detox alone does not address the underlying behavioral causes of addiction; it is typically used in combination with other therapies.
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, a form of psychotherapy administered by a psychologist, can be effective for various types of addictions. CBT helps individuals recognize their unhealthy behavioral patterns, identify triggers, and develop coping skills. This therapy can be administered individually, within a family setting, or in a group, depending on personal preferences.
Self-Help Groups
Self-help groups offer another avenue for men seeking to overcome drug addiction. These organizations run on the 12-step framework that Alcoholics Anonymous originally created. Self-help support groups, such as Narcotics Anonymous, provide assistance to people struggling with drug addiction. The underlying message in these self-help support groups is that addiction is a chronic disorder with a risk of relapse. Participating in self-help support groups can help alleviate the sense of shame and isolation that often leads to relapse.
Conclusion
While experimenting with drugs, you may believe you have control and won't become addicted. However, it is easy to become addicted to substances like alcohol or heroin without realizing it. The best way to avoid substance use disorder is to refrain from experimenting with recreational drugs, even in the face of peer pressure. Such substances can be harmful to your body and potentially life-threatening.