Substance Abuse Treatment in Houston, Texas
The Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) states in 2020, that 40.3 million people ages 12 and older had a substance abuse disorder. Substance abuse can lead to significant health, relationship, and financial issues. Seeking drug and alcohol treatment at a rehab facility can help break the cycle of drug and alcohol addiction.
Like with any illness, it is crucial to get the proper treatment for substance abuse. The best treatment centers create individual treatment plans for each person and offer a continuum of care during and after treatment.
Through the combination of our support groups, therapists, and your desire to become sober, Luna Recovery Services in Houston, Texas can help you achieve long-term recovery. Our luxury drug and alcohol rehab programs are accessible and covered under health insurance.
Dependency, substance use disorders, abuse, and addiction are closely related. However, there are key differences between them. Knowing the differences is important when trying to find the right treatment program.
When someone is addicted to a substance, it is common for their loved ones to refer to them as having an “addiction” to certain behaviors or as being “dependent” on drugs. People frequently use the terms “addiction” and “dependent” interchangeably to describe a person’s behavior while engaging in a particular activity, as well as the consequences of the behavior when it leads to a physical illness. However, there are significant differences between the two terms, several of which concern the chemical effects that addicts experience.
The term “dependency” refers to a person’s physical and psychological loss of control as a result of substance use. A person is said to be dependent if they use a lot of drugs and develop a physical dependence on them. Addiction isn’t always accompanied by this, but it can be.
It can be difficult to tell the difference at times. For example, a person using pain medication may discover that they require increasing amounts of dosage for the medication to work. Some doctors may diagnose this as increasing tolerance, while others may misdiagnose it as the beginning of an addiction problem.
The term “addiction” is characterized as a chronic, relapsing disorder characterized by compulsive drug seeking and use despite negative consequences. It is considered a brain disorder or disease as abusing drugs and alcohol causes functional changes to brain circuits involved in reward, stress, and self-control, it is classified as a brain disorder. The addiction cycle is a domino effect. It affects all aspects of life, physically, psychologically, financially, and socially.
The repeated harmful use of any substance, including drugs and alcohol, is referred to as substance use disorder. The substances could be legal, prescription drugs, or illegal, as well as some that aren’t even classified as drugs.
Substance use and abuse occur when you do not use the substance as directed or when you take more than the recommended dosage. For example, if you are prescribed a painkiller and take it at higher doses or more often than prescribed, this is considered abuse.
Dependency is when someone needs drugs or alcohol to function, but it doesn’t mean that one is addicted. The repeated abuse of a substance commonly leads to addiction. Addiction is a neuropsychological disorder characterized by a persistent and intense desire to engage in specific addictive habits and behaviors, despite significant harm and other negative consequences.
The National Institute on Drug Abuse states addiction differs from dependency in that addiction is a chronic disease that is difficult to control. Abusing substances such as drugs and alcohol can cause chemical changes in the brain, resulting in harmful long-term effects.
When dependency turns into addiction, the individual can no longer quit or change their behaviors without professional help. The changes in the brain made by drug and alcohol addiction can leave a person feeling helpless and having no control over their addictive behaviors.
Although being dependent is different than being addicted, it is still concerning and not something to shy away from.
Signs and Symptoms of Substance Use Disorder
Signs of substance abuse include frequent intoxication, being hungover, and paraphernalia. Signs can also include behavioral changes and other signs such as:
- Developing a tolerance to the substance
- Experiencing symptoms without the substance
- Mood swings, irritability
- Lack of motivation
- Unable to stop even when you want to
- The substance consumes your life
- Inability to complete daily tasks
- Relationship issues
- Changes in sleep patterns
- Appetite changes
- Decline in self-care
- Financial problems
- Missing work or school regularly
- Isolating from friends and family
- Ignoring daily responsibilities
- Denying drug use
Different drugs produce different signs of intoxication, side effects, and withdrawal symptoms. That is why seeking help from addiction specialists is so important. However, addiction treatment is not one-size-fits-all and greatly depends on the substance being abused.
Addiction is a Complex But Treatable Disease
A substance use disorder (SUD) is a complex chronic brain disease. It is characterized by uncontrollable cravings and compulsive drug-seeking habits, and drug use despite the devastating consequences.
Various causes and risk factors contribute to a person developing a substance use disorder which may include:
- Genetics and family history of substance use
- Easy access to drugs or alcohol
- Abusing substances at a young age
- Lack of parental supervision
- History of abuse or neglect
- Volatile home environment
- Untreated or undiagnosed mental health issues
People experiencing drug and alcohol abuse often feel like there is no way out. But, we’re here to tell you that there is hope at our addiction treatment center in Houston, TX. Recovery is obtainable by addressing the underlying causes of substance use disorder with therapy, psychotherapy, and other treatment methods.
Understanding the Addiction Cycle
Before talking about the types of drug and alcohol addictions, it is important to know how the cycle of addiction develops.
Drugs and alcohol affect the reward system in the brain. Dopamine is released when you do something pleasurable like hanging with friends or playing sports. But when you use drugs and alcohol, it causes a rush of dopamine, causing immense pleasure or euphoria. The brain remembers this feeling and drives a person to seek that substance again.
The brain desires the euphoric feeling from previous drug and alcohol use. These desires can trigger cravings, especially if you are in the same environment. For instance, you are at a party where you used drugs or alcohol. Often, cravings are the first sign of addiction.
The more a person abuses substances, the more dopamine the brain produces. But, this also interferes with normal dopamine releases. As a result, people may not find happiness in things that once made them happy.
This leads to using more of the substance to feel the same effects. Building a tolerance to drugs or alcohol is another sign of substance use disorder.
A key characteristic of addiction is the inability to control substance use and the behaviors involved in substance abuse despite the consequences. This can include health issues, job loss, and relationship problems.
One consequence of abusing substances is the brain rewarding the harmful behavior. The brain encourages substance use by keeping people on an emotional rollercoaster until they consume the substance. A person with addiction typically struggles to function normally without their substance of choice.
When people stop using, they start having mental, physical, and emotional withdrawal symptoms. Depending on the substance being abused, the withdrawal symptoms can be severe and even life-threatening. Medical detox is the safest way to withdraw and is offered at most rehabilitation facilities.
COMMON SUBSTANCES ABUSED AND TREATED in HOUSTON, TEXAS
Alcohol and drug abuse have caused problems in homes and families across the United States. Houston is no different. In 2022 alone, the DEA Houston field division issued more than 50 press releases announcing large drug seizures or arrests.
Because of the ongoing threat of drug trafficking across the US-Mexico border, Houston drug and alcohol rehab centers have taken the lead in Texas’ fight against addictions of all types and severity.
Alcohol addiction or alcohol use disorder (AUD) is a mental health disorder according to the American Psychiatric Association (APA) and causes lasting changes to brain function. Because of these changes, people struggle to stop using alcohol despite the negative consequences.
Alcohol is an accessible substance that can have dangerous consequences, as it is used by 50% of people aged 12 and older in the United States. According to the 2020 National Survey on Drug Use and Health, according to the DSM-5 criteria, approximately 28.3 million people were diagnosed with an alcohol use disorder in 2020.
Symptoms of alcohol use disorder can range from mild to severe and can affect a person’s daily life along with their mental and physical health. Many people struggle to keep their jobs, maintain parental responsibilities, and even face legal trouble.
To diagnose alcohol use disorder, medical professionals look for the following signs:
- Drinking more often and in larger quantities than intended
- Inability to stop when intended
- Most of the day is spent recovering from drinking, buying alcohol, and drinking.
- Intense cravings
- Neglecting other responsibilities
- Relationship problems
- Continuing to drink despite mental and physical issues
- Risky behaviors while intoxicated
- Increased tolerance
- Withdrawal symptoms when stopping
While a person only needs two signs for an alcohol use disorder diagnosis, having more symptoms could mean a more severe disorder. Texas residents can find compassionate care and treatment at LUNA Recovery Services.
Opioids include prescription pain medications and illicit drugs such as heroin. These drugs are highly addictive, even in short-term use. It is crucial only to use opioids as prescribed to minimize the risk of addiction.
Opioid use disorder (OUD) or opioid addiction is a chronic disorder that can cause long-term changes to the brain. Opioid addiction is one of the most challenging addictions to overcome, and unfortunately, the risk of overdose is extremely high.
Signs of opioid use disorder include:
- Inability to stop using opioids
- Uncontrollable cravings
- Drowsiness
- Changes in sleep patterns
- Weight loss
- Frequently experiencing flu-like symptoms
- Lack of self-care
- Isolating from friends and family
- Financial trouble
- Stealing from family, friends, or business
- Extreme withdrawal symptoms without the drug
Treatment for opioid use disorder may include medical detox, individual and group therapy, and treating co-occurring disorders. Treating opioid addiction often includes medication-assisted treatment to ease long-lasting withdrawal symptoms.
Cocaine, a white powdery substance, reacts with the central nervous system (CNS) and produces energy and euphoria. Although it is typically snorted, it can also be smoked or dissolved in water and injected.
Cocaine causes dopamine release in the brain, making people feel good. However, long-term use can lead to severe issues such as genetic changes in brain cells, nerve cells, and proteins. Cocaine addiction also causes strain on the heart leading to stroke or cardiac arrest. Attending an inpatient treatment program can help individuals learn healthy coping skills and build the tools needed for lasting recovery.
BENZODIAZEPINE ADDICTION
Benzodiazepines or benzos, are prescription sedatives. Although they have a calming effect, they are highly addictive. An addiction to benzos can cause physical, psychological, and behavioral symptoms such as:
- Weakness
- Blurred vision
- Drowsiness
- Poor judgment or thinking
- Inability to stop using even when you want to
- Mood swings
- Risk-taking behaviors
- Combing benzos with alcohol and other drugs
- Withdrawal symptoms
Because withdrawal symptoms can be severe and even life-threatening, seeking a medical detox program is crucial.
CALL US TODAY 844.407.2859
Drug Misuse in Houston
People in Houston, like much of the rest of the country, are affected by drug traffic and suffer the consequences of drug abuse. Methamphetamine is one of the number one drug threats in Houston and across Texas. Other common drugs abused include:
- Opioids
- Cocaine
- Benzodiazepines
- Marijuana
Despite the growing national problem of heroin and other opioids, methamphetamine and cocaine remain the most dangerous drugs for Texas drug users. There are options available if you or a loved one require a Houston drug detox program for psychostimulant or opiate treatment.
ADDICTION TREATMENT PROGRAMS
At LunaRecovery Services, our rehab facility offers clients a range of treatment programs to meet the needs of every individual. With help from our addiction specialists, we’ll choose the best treatment for you, including:
- Residential treatment
- Partial Hospitalization Program
- Intensive Outpatient Program
The best treatment centers will offer evidence-based therapies and a continuum of care. This plan is tailored to a person’s treatment journey to ensure the best possible recovery outcomes.
Luna Recovery Services Offers the Evidence-Based Treatments
At Luna Recovery Center in Houston, TX, we provide the following treatment programs:
MEDICAL DETOX
Depending on the substance, withdrawal symptoms can be life-threatening if left untreated. Self-detoxing is very common as people think they can quit cold turkey. However, this is highly not recommended, as evidence has proven that doing so can result in relapse, overdose, and death.
Professional medical detox programs at a treatment center offer a safe, medically supervised environment to wean off drugs and alcohol. Doctors may use medications to ease the discomfort depending on the circumstance. The detoxification process is the first step in recovery and allows people to enter inpatient rehab or outpatient rehab with a clear mind.
RESIDENTIAL TREATMENT
Residential treatment programs also known as inpatient treatment offer care to individuals with more severe levels of addiction. Individuals live at the rehab facility and receive medical care and mental health support around the clock.
Inpatient treatment typically lasts from 28 days to months, depending on the individual’s specific needs. Once a person completes inpatient or treatment services, they often transition into an outpatient program.
OUTPATIENT TREATMENT (OP)
Outpatient rehab programs offer people flexible treatment schedules to continue with their daily responsibilities. Because outpatient programs are not strictly structured, they effectively treat mild and moderate addictions. Outpatient programs offer step-down programs depending on the individual’s needs and stage of recovery.
PARTIAL HOSPITALIZATION PROGRAM (PHP)
A partial hospitalization program (PHP) is a highly structured outpatient program. Often the next step after completing residential treatment, people attend partial hospitalization programs every day for 4 to 6 hours a day. PHPs typically involve psychotherapy, group therapy, and skill-building lessons.
INTENSIVE OUTPATIENT PROGRAM (IOP)
Intensive outpatient programs or IOPs offer intensive treatment while allowing people to still handle their responsibilities at home or work. People generally attend therapy a few times a week, including individual and group therapy.
An IOP can be beneficial if:
- You completed inpatient treatment
- You’re in early addiction recovery and have a trusted support system at home
- You have family commitments that prevent you from being away for extended periods of time
- You can’t afford inpatient drug rehab programs but have a strong desire for recovery
Adolescent Treatment Program
Adolescents are undergoing rapid physical, social, and emotional development. During this period, an adolescent may develop addictive behaviors. Teens may also develop mental health issues such as depression, anxiety, etc.
When dealing with these mental health conditions or addictive behaviors, teens may feel misunderstood and alone. Parents are frequently perplexed and struggle to find family support that will help their teen return to a stable and healthy lifestyle. At Luna Recovery, we work hard to understand the unique challenges that teens and families face in our adolescent program.
Addiction Therapy Services
Therapy for addiction addresses the causes of drug and alcohol abuse. Evidence-based therapies are incredibly effective in treating addictions and co-occurring mental health disorders.
WHAT MAKES TREATMENT MODALITIES EFFECTIVE?
Treating addiction is more than just ridding the body of drugs and alcohol. Without treating the underlying causes of addiction, a person can commonly experience a relapse in the early stages of recovery. We will give you the resources and tools such as relapse prevention skills and coping mechanisms, to help recognize triggers and manage them positively and healthily.
CALL US TODAY 844.407.2859
HOW LONG DOES A PATIENT STAY IN ADDICTION TREATMENT?
The amount of time a person stays in drug rehab in Texas depends on several factors. A person with a severe drug and/or alcohol addiction will spend more time in treatment than a person with a mild addiction.
Common lengths of stay in a treatment facility are:
- 7+ days in a detox program
- 30-day programs
- 60-day programs
- 90-day programs
While the most common treatment stays are up to 90 days, some individuals spend a year or more in treatment. However, for many people, insurance coverage depends on the length of time they spend in treatment.
The Cost of Substance Abuse Treatment
Finding out how to pay for drug or alcohol addiction treatment in Houston does not have to be a barrier to getting help. Some centers may accept self-pay or sliding-scale payments. The cost of treatment is determined by several factors, including:
- Treatment duration
- Outpatient vs. inpatient care
- Amenities of a treatment center (luxury or executive treatment centers)
- Hospitals versus residential treatment facilities
- Other treatment requirements
- Accepted insurance types
- Location (state, city, rural, or urban) (which state, which city, rural, or urban)
Many programs are eager to assist you in determining whether your insurance covers their services.
TREATMENT PLANS MUST BE CONTINUALLY MODIFIED TO MEET A PERSON’S NEEDS
A patient’s initial treatment plan is created with the knowledge the therapist and patient have at the time. As treatment progresses, therapy may not be effective and needs to be changed.
Or during a therapy session, something may come to light that can benefit from a different treatment. For these reasons, it is important for therapists to constantly monitor patients and adjust their treatment plans to meet their needs.
RECEIVE CARE AT OUR LUXURY ADDICTION TREATMENT CENTER IN TEXAS
If you or someone you love is struggling with addiction, it is time to get help. At Luna Recovery Services, we provide compassionate, individualized treatment to help you recover.
With help through private insurance and other insurance coverage, we help you explore all payment options for treatment. Contact us today to find out how you can achieve lasting recovery.
