How Does the Brain Create the Feeling of Addiction?

How Does the Brain Create the Feeling of Addiction?

Addiction is far from uncommon. Around 10% of adults in the United States will have some sort of drug addiction problem during their lifetime. A partial hospitalization program, intensive outpatient program, or another drug treatment option can help these individuals address their addiction problems. 

Are you or a loved one seeking drug rehab and alcohol rehab? In this article, we’ll explore how substance addictions affect the brain.

How Does the Brain Create the Feeling of Addiction? Northstar Recovery Center PHP IOP OP in Massachusetts

What Makes Drugs Addictive?

There are many reasons people become addicted. One major factor is the rewarding high drugs deliver. The feeling delivers a sense of euphoria and other pleasurable feelings.

While pleasurable, drugs can make it difficult to enjoy pleasure over the long term. This is one reason why drug users often seek stronger drugs. Addiction can also make natural forms of pleasure less pleasurable.

We all understand the natural pleasure of a tasty meal or favorite song. Drugs offer something more, though. The rewards from drug use eventually become more enjoyable than natural rewards.

The Dopamine Factor

You may have heard of the role dopamine plays in addiction. Dopamine is sometimes called the pathway to pleasure.

When a rewarding event occurs, the brain releases dopamine to encourage repeats of that behavior. This process can be healthy. Dopamine may encourage a couple to reproduce, for example.

That pattern can become damaging when the activity is unhealthy. Consumption of alcohol, for example, causes significant releases of dopamine for some people.

Dopamine can cause the brain to value drugs more than safe rewards. Over time, the brain adjusts to enjoy natural rewards less. This can cause someone to feel depressed or sad when they are not doing drugs.

If natural pleasures are a salad, drug use becomes a large bowl of ice cream.

How Drugs Change the Brain

Drug addiction then becomes something of a reflex. Addiction can be triggered by people, places, or other things.

Someone who is addicted to food may be triggered by seeing their favorite restaurant. Cravings can feel intense and uncontrollable. 

Compounding the problem is the fact that most people become tolerant of their favorite substances. Reproducing the pleasurable high of heroin or another substance requires higher and higher doses of that drug. 

Tolerance

Tolerance and dependence tend to rise together. Both symptoms can signify a substance disorder. 

Tolerance refers to the state where the body’s reaction to a drug diminishes over time. Drug users then compensate by consuming higher and higher doses of the drug. This increased use speeds up the addiction progress and can place users at risk of overdosing. 

Dependence

Physical dependence refers to the need to consume drugs just to feel formal. When the substance is not in their system, withdrawals tend to result. Those symptoms can range from irritation to life-threatening medical emergencies. 

Addiction and dependence are related but they are separate issues. The must be treated as an independent problem. 

The Brain’s Equilibrium

The brain is an intricate organ that requires a careful balance of neurotransmitters to function properly. Drug addiction disrupts that balance of hormones and chemical signals. 

If the imbalance continues for a long time, the addicted person tries to compensate for the effects of drugs. Drug addiction can impact speech, behavior, memory, and person’s emotional state. 

Alcohol and other drugs also introduce toxins to the brain. This can cause parts of the brain to function abnormally.

The hippocampus may even shrink in size, for example. Memory recollection can falter if this happens.

Brain changes can even lead people to become self-destructive as addiction spirals and cravings increase. The urge to consume drugs can become all-consuming.

What Are My Treatment Options?

There is no one therapy option that can address all forms of drug addiction. Northstar Recovery Center in Southborough, MA offers multiple treatment options that can be customized to meet your needs.

Group, individual, and family therapy is one option. For folks who are still in denial about their addictions, group therapy can be a great resource for coming to terms with addiction. 

We also offer partial hospitalization here in Southborough. This is considered the highest level of care. Clinical care and behavioral therapies help patients who are struggling with severe addiction. 

Some of our patients benefit from our intensive outpatient program in Southborough, MA. This program does not require 24/7 time at our facility. Outpatient programs are ideal for folks who need a higher level of care but can still handle home life well.

Outpatients programs allow recovering men and women to continue living their lives as they normally would. They still have access to counseling and clinical support as needed to overcome their substance misuse disorder.

Even with addiction treatment in MA, it is important for patients to have support for the emotional and physical challenges that lie ahead. Successful interventions begin with an experienced team and a comprehensive plan. 

How Does the Brain Create the Feeling of Addiction? Northstar Recovery Center PHP IOP OP in Massachusetts

Learn More About Drug Rehab and Alcohol Rehab

Don’t let addiction stand between you and full recovery. Finding an effective drug rehab and alcohol rehab should be your top priority. Northstar Recovery Center in Southborough, MA has a team of dedicated addiction treatment professionals who are ready to help you.

Our approach helps clients reach stability so they can rebuild their lives and discover how to live free of addictive habits. We do this through evidence-based interventions and compassionate care. 

Contact our office to schedule your consultation. We help people who are dealing with opioids, alcohol, and other forms of addiction. 

WHO WE ARE
Northstar Recovery Center in Southborough, MA is made up of a team of experienced, dedicated, and compassionate addiction treatment professionals. We want to see our community heal from the effects of the opioid epidemic, alcohol addiction, and other substance use disorders.

Day Treatment Program in MA

Our day treatment program in Massachusetts, also referred to as an intensive outpatient program (IOP), is the highest level of health care offered at NorthStar Recovery Center. This outpatient addiction treatment option encompasses comprehensive clinical health care and behavioral health therapy services. In the initial stages of addiction recovery, it's crucial to have robust support to navigate both the physical and emotional challenges that come with pursuing long-term sobriety.

Our dedicated team at NorthStar Recovery Center, located in Southborough, MA, and West Springfield, MA, is committed to assisting you in establishing a solid foundation for a lifelong recovery from addiction to drugs and alcohol. Clients typically visit our outpatient addiction treatment center in Massachusetts each weekday for several hours, engaging in counseling sessions and other necessary interventions. This intensive outpatient therapy approach ensures a balanced and effective recovery process, tailored to individual needs within the framework of day treatment.

LEARN MORE ABOUT DAY TREATMENT PROGRAMS IN MA

Individual, Group, and Family Counseling in Massachusetts

Addiction thrives in isolation, which is why group counseling sessions are a foundational part of our addiction treatment services. In group sessions, you’ll gain perspective on your struggles with substance use disorder and can connect with others who understand your experiences.

Family counseling can help your loved ones understand the disease of addiction, navigate conflict, develop better coping tools, and build healthier relationships. In individual counseling sessions, you’ll be able to work through personal issues like past trauma with the help of experienced therapists at our alcohol and drug treatment centers. Improve your quality of life and pursue lifelong sobriety now.

Learn More About Addiction Counseling in Massachusetts

Contact Northstar Recovery Center

Let us guide you on your journey to recovery from addiction. Connect with our team today.
Call Us Now

Why Drug Rehabs in Massachusetts are a Good Choice

Why Drug Rehabs in Massachusetts are a Good Choice

One in four people will abuse drugs at some point in their life.

Are you using drugs and looking for a way out?

Substance use treatment can be a difficult and challenging process, but it’s also one of the most important things you can do for yourself or a loved one.

In this article, we will walk you through everything you need to know about addiction treatment in MA. We’ll go over what to expect in rehabilitation to how to maintain sobriety after completing treatment. If you’re considering seeking treatment for yourself or someone close to you, read on.

Why Drug Rehabs in Massachusetts are a Good Choice

What Is Substance Use Disorder?

Substance use disorder is a medical condition. It occurs when a person uses alcohol or other drugs to the point where it interferes with their daily life.

It can cause problems with work, school, and relationships, and can lead to legal problems. People with substance use disorder may continue to use substances despite the consequences. They continue to use even when they are aware of the consequences and may have trouble controlling their use.

Treatment for substance use disorder typically involves counseling and support groups. Medications may also be used to help people manage withdrawal symptoms and cravings.

Recovery from substance use disorder is possible, but it often takes time and effort.

How Drug Rehabilitation Helps

Drug rehabilitation is also known as substance abuse treatment. These programs are designed to help people who are struggling with addiction. The goal of rehab is to help people stop using drugs and to learn how to live a drug-free life.

There are many different types of rehab programs. However, most will include some combination of detoxification, counseling, and medication.

Detoxification helps people to rid their bodies of the drugs they are addicted to. Counseling helps people to understand the root causes of their addiction. It encourages them to develop coping strategies for dealing with triggers and cravings.

Medication can be used to help lessen withdrawal symptoms and cravings.

The length of time someone spends in rehab depends on the severity of their addiction, but most programs last between 30 and 90 days. Drug rehabilitation can be an important step in recovering from addiction and learning how to live a healthy and drug-free life.

What is a Partial Hospitalization Program For Substance Use?

A Partial Hospitalization Program (PHP) is a type of treatment program for substance use. It provides intense, daily treatment for substance use disorders while allowing patients to live at home.

PHP typically includes group and individual therapy, psychoeducation, skills training, and medication management. Patients in PHP typically attend treatment for 5-7 hours per day, 5-7 days per week.

PHP is often used as a step-down from inpatient treatment or as a step-up from outpatient treatment.

PHP can be an effective treatment for substance use disorders. But it is important to choose a program that is tailored to meet the individual’s needs.

What is an Intensive Outpatient Program for Substance Use?

An intensive outpatient program (IOP) is another type of treatment program. It allows people with substance use disorders to receive care while continuing to live at home and work or attend school.

IOPs are typically less costly and disruptive than inpatient programs. They can be very effective for people who have completed detoxification or who have a strong support system at home.

IOPs typically involve group therapy, individual counseling, and/or medication-assisted treatment (MAT). Participation in an IOP can vary from a few hours each week to several hours each day, depending on the needs of the individual.

IOPs can be an important step in recovery for people who are committed to staying sober. They work well for people who may not be ready or able to commit to a more intensive level of care.

What Treatments Are Available For Opioid Use Disorder?

While there is no one-size-fits-all treatment for opioid use disorder, there are a number of effective options available.

One of the most common approaches is tapering. Tapering involves gradually reducing the amount of opioids consumed. Eventually, the individual is able to quit completely.

Another popular option is methadone maintenance. This involves taking a long-acting opioid such as methadone in order to avoid withdrawal symptoms and cravings.

There are also a number of medication-assisted treatments (MATs) that can be used, such as buprenorphine and naltrexone. These medications can help to reduce cravings and prevent relapse.

In addition, behavioral therapies can be effective in treating opioid use disorder. These include cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) and contingency management (CM).

Ultimately, there is no single best approach to treating this condition. The best course of action will vary depending on the individual’s unique needs and circumstances.

Can I Find Hope for Recovering From Addictions?

Everyone’s experience with addiction and recovery is unique. Some people may find that their addiction is relatively easy to overcome, while others may struggle for years.

The important thing to remember is that recovery is possible, no matter how difficult it may seem. There are many resources available to help people struggling with addiction, and there is always hope for a better future.

So if you are wondering if you can find hope for recovering from addictions, the answer is yes. All you need is a little bit of courage and a willingness to seek help.

Why Drug Rehabs in Massachusetts are a Good Choice

Finding Addiction Treatment in MA

Intensive outpatient programs allow people to live at home and work or attend school while receiving care.

PHPs are a type of treatment program that provides intense, daily treatment for substance use disorders. They also allow patients to live at home and continue with their daily responsibilities. Both types of programs are a good choice for individuals suffering from substance use disorder.

If you are looking for addiction treatment in MA, please contact us today. We want to help you get back on track toward living your life to the fullest.

And if you liked this article about PHP and IOP options in Massachusetts, please check out the other articles on our blog!

WHO WE ARE
Northstar Recovery Center in Southborough, MA is made up of a team of experienced, dedicated, and compassionate addiction treatment professionals. We want to see our community heal from the effects of the opioid epidemic, alcohol addiction, and other substance use disorders.

Day Treatment Program in MA

Our day treatment program in Massachusetts, also referred to as an intensive outpatient program (IOP), is the highest level of health care offered at NorthStar Recovery Center. This outpatient addiction treatment option encompasses comprehensive clinical health care and behavioral health therapy services. In the initial stages of addiction recovery, it's crucial to have robust support to navigate both the physical and emotional challenges that come with pursuing long-term sobriety.

Our dedicated team at NorthStar Recovery Center, located in Southborough, MA, and West Springfield, MA, is committed to assisting you in establishing a solid foundation for a lifelong recovery from addiction to drugs and alcohol. Clients typically visit our outpatient addiction treatment center in Massachusetts each weekday for several hours, engaging in counseling sessions and other necessary interventions. This intensive outpatient therapy approach ensures a balanced and effective recovery process, tailored to individual needs within the framework of day treatment.

LEARN MORE ABOUT DAY TREATMENT PROGRAMS IN MA

Individual, Group, and Family Counseling in Massachusetts

Addiction thrives in isolation, which is why group counseling sessions are a foundational part of our addiction treatment services. In group sessions, you’ll gain perspective on your struggles with substance use disorder and can connect with others who understand your experiences.

Family counseling can help your loved ones understand the disease of addiction, navigate conflict, develop better coping tools, and build healthier relationships. In individual counseling sessions, you’ll be able to work through personal issues like past trauma with the help of experienced therapists at our alcohol and drug treatment centers. Improve your quality of life and pursue lifelong sobriety now.

Learn More About Addiction Counseling in Massachusetts

Contact Northstar Recovery Center

Let us guide you on your journey to recovery from addiction. Connect with our team today.
Call Us Now

6 Signs It’s Time to Go to an Outpatient Alcohol Rehab in MA

6 Signs It’s Time to Go to an Outpatient Alcohol Rehab in MA

If you’re reading this, you probably feel like you’ve tried every trick to help you beat your alcohol addiction. Maybe you’ve attended Alcohol Anonymous meetings and support groups or attended a self-help program.

Perhaps reading about all of the other people who have gone through the same thing helped motivate you to take action. Whatever your strategy has been, it’s time to see an outpatient alcohol rehab.

Read on now and begin learning when it’s time to consider PHP.

6 Signs It’s Time to Go to an Outpatient Alcohol Rehab in MA

1. Alcohol Has Become Your Priority

During your recovery process, you will be thinking about alcohol more than you’ve ever done before. You might be planning your day around a glass of wine or a beer with friends, or you might find yourself asking, “What would you like to drink?” more than you’re used to.

You might feel like you have to have a drink in your hand at all times, or you might find yourself avoiding things you used to enjoy because they’re associated with alcohol. You might even find yourself missing the buzz you used to get from alcohol.

It’s not unusual to feel as though your life revolves around drinking. Now is the time to make a change. If you find that alcohol has become your priority, you need to take action.

Plenty of people have overcome addictions to drugs, food, and sex so that you can do it too. If you’re ready to make a change, you need to find an intensive outpatient program.

2. Tried to Quit Before & it Didn’t Work

For many people, the first step is to stop drinking altogether. You might be fed up with the fact that alcohol has taken over your life, or you might want to see if you have the willpower to give up drinking.

But either way, the first step is to stop drinking completely. And if you’ve tried this before, you know what a huge undertaking it can be. But when you’re ready for a change, it’s time to try something different. You might be surprised to find that you’ve never actually tried to quit drinking.

You might have told yourself you’re going to quit, or you might have used all the tricks in the book, but you’ve never actually stopped drinking. Whether you’ve just been waiting until you’re a little bit drunker to start drinking again, or you’re not really trying to quit, you need to try something new.

A partial hospitalization program can help you understand why you cannot quit drinking and find a solution.

3. Increase in Health Problems

If you’re regularly drinking, you need to realize that you’re putting yourself at risk for several health problems, not the least of which is an increased risk for liver disease. But there are also problems with your liver, heart, blood, breathing, and other organs caused by drinking.

You can cause these problems yourself by drinking too much, or they can be caused by how often and how much you drink. Health problems caused by drinking can happen at any age, but they become more common as you get older.

However, you can find a way to reduce your risk for health problems caused by drinking. An IOP can assist you in finding healthy ways to reduce your alcohol intake and teach you to deal with any health problems caused by your drinking.

4. Destroying Personal Relationships

Part of your recovery process will be learning to be more honest and open with yourself, others, and the world around you. You might not have realized it before, but alcohol has a way of isolating you from the people in your life.

You might have a habit of keeping your drinking to a few close friends, but when you drink, you feel as though you have to keep it a secret. This isn’t healthy and can cause a lot of stress, damaging your relationships.

Your relationship with alcohol might cause you to isolate yourself from others, damage your relationships, and even put yourself in danger. But you can begin to change this with the help of addiction treatment in MA facility.

6 Signs It’s Time to Go to an Outpatient Alcohol Rehab in MA

5. Neglecting Responsibilities

You might find yourself neglecting your responsibilities when you drink. You might feel as though you can’t do anything or are too drunk to do anything, or you might find yourself missing work, school, or other obligations because you’re drinking.

This isn’t healthy, but it’s also not something that typically occurs overnight. You may have developed this habit over time, which means you may find it takes a while to overcome.

But you can begin to change this with the help of outpatient alcohol rehab.

6. Underlying Mental Health Problems

More frequently, medical professionals have started making connections between alcohol use and mental health problems, including depression and suicide. This occurs relatively frequently in people who have a history of abuse and trauma, but it can also be a risk factor for those who don’t have a history of abuse.

If you’re having mental health problems such as depression or anxiety triggered by your drinking, you need help. Outpatient alcohol rehab can help you understand why you drink, examine your mental health, and find a way to prevent these issues from occurring again.

Signs It’s Time to Enter Alcohol Rehab

If you’re reading this, you’ve probably tried everything to beat your alcohol addiction, but it isn’t working. You’re ready for a change, and you need to find an alcohol rehab that can offer you the help you need.

Outpatient alcohol rehab in MA can help you get the support you need to understand why you drink and find a solution, and they can also help assess your health and identify any underlying issues that might be caused by drinking. Contact Northstar Recovery Center for help.

WHO WE ARE
Northstar Recovery Center in Southborough, MA is made up of a team of experienced, dedicated, and compassionate addiction treatment professionals. We want to see our community heal from the effects of the opioid epidemic, alcohol addiction, and other substance use disorders.

Day Treatment Program in MA

Our day treatment program in Massachusetts, also referred to as an intensive outpatient program (IOP), is the highest level of health care offered at NorthStar Recovery Center. This outpatient addiction treatment option encompasses comprehensive clinical health care and behavioral health therapy services. In the initial stages of addiction recovery, it's crucial to have robust support to navigate both the physical and emotional challenges that come with pursuing long-term sobriety.

Our dedicated team at NorthStar Recovery Center, located in Southborough, MA, and West Springfield, MA, is committed to assisting you in establishing a solid foundation for a lifelong recovery from addiction to drugs and alcohol. Clients typically visit our outpatient addiction treatment center in Massachusetts each weekday for several hours, engaging in counseling sessions and other necessary interventions. This intensive outpatient therapy approach ensures a balanced and effective recovery process, tailored to individual needs within the framework of day treatment.

LEARN MORE ABOUT DAY TREATMENT PROGRAMS IN MA

Individual, Group, and Family Counseling in Massachusetts

Addiction thrives in isolation, which is why group counseling sessions are a foundational part of our addiction treatment services. In group sessions, you’ll gain perspective on your struggles with substance use disorder and can connect with others who understand your experiences.

Family counseling can help your loved ones understand the disease of addiction, navigate conflict, develop better coping tools, and build healthier relationships. In individual counseling sessions, you’ll be able to work through personal issues like past trauma with the help of experienced therapists at our alcohol and drug treatment centers. Improve your quality of life and pursue lifelong sobriety now.

Learn More About Addiction Counseling in Massachusetts

Contact Northstar Recovery Center

Let us guide you on your journey to recovery from addiction. Connect with our team today.
Call Us Now

Northstar Recovery Center is Now In-Network with Tufts Insurance

Northstar Recovery Center is Now In-Network with Tufts Insurance

Northstar Recovery Center is proud to partner with Tufts Insurance. Tufts Insurance is a leading health insurance provider in the United States and is committed to providing its members with high-quality, affordable health care. Northstar Recovery Center is a state-of-the-art rehabilitation facility that offers a variety of programs and services designed to help patients overcome addiction and attain lasting sobriety. The partnership between Tufts Insurance and Northstar Recovery Center will ensure patients have access to the best possible care and treatment.

Tufts insurance for addiction treatment in Massachusetts by Northstar Recovery Center

How Is The Partnership with Tufts Insurance Going To Help?

 

In today’s world, having a good health insurance policy is more important than ever. But what happens when your health insurance policy doesn’t cover the full cost of your addiction treatment in Massachusetts? That’s where Tufts Insurance’s Partnership with Northstar Recovery Center comes in. The partnership provides coverage for the entire cost of treatment at Northstar Recovery Center so that you can focus on getting well without worrying about the financial burden.

 

With this partnership, people dealing with substance abuse can benefit from professional programs to help them navigate the road to recovery. Recovery programs covered by this partnership include:

Partial Hospitalization Program (PHP) in Massachusetts

 

Addiction Treatment in MA is not a one-size fits. There are various programs offered depending on the severity of the addiction. One such program is the Partial Hospitalization Program (PHP) in Northstar Recovery Center. PHP allows individuals to receive intensive treatment and return home at night. This program is ideal for those who have completed a detoxification program and are ready to take the next step in their recovery. PHP includes individual and group therapy, medication management, and other support services. This program aims to help individuals develop the skills they need to lead a sober and successful life.

 

Intensive Outpatient Program (IOP) in Massachusetts

 

The Intensive Outpatient Program (IOP) at Northstar Recovery Center is a highly effective treatment option for those struggling with addiction. IOP provides comprehensive care while allowing patients to continue living at home and maintaining their daily schedules. The program consists of group and individual therapy sessions and skill-building workshops. This combination of evidence-based treatments allows patients to develop the tools they need to build a foundation for long-term recovery. IOP is a great option for those seeking a more flexible treatment option, and the team at Northstar is dedicated to providing each patient with the individualized care they deserve.

 

Behavioral Health Services in Massachusetts

 

Northstar Recovery Center offers various behavioral health services to help our clients heal from addiction and mental health disorders. Our highly skilled team of clinicians provides individual, group, and family therapy, medication management, and crisis intervention. We also offer a variety of holistic therapies, such as yoga and acupuncture, which can help promote relaxation and wellbeing. In addition, we have an on-site gym, which our clients can use to get physically active and boost their mood. Our goal is to provide comprehensive care that meets each client’s unique needs. We believe that recovery is possible for everyone, and we are committed to helping our clients achieve lasting sobriety and mental health.

 

Co-Occurring Intensive Outpatient Program in Massachusetts

 

The road to recovery can be quite expensive, especially if the only option someone has is to live in a facility. With Tufts Insurance, it is now possible for people to get co-occurring intensive outpatient at Northstar Recovery Center. This unique program provides our clients with the support they need to recover from their mental health and substance abuse disorders. 

 

Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) for Substance Use Disorder in Massachusetts

 

This term denotes a form of psychotherapy used in the treatment of several mental health conditions. At Northstar Recovery Center, our skilled therapists use CBT to help our clients overcome addiction and achieve lasting sobriety. CBT is based on the principle that our thoughts play a key role in our emotions and behaviors. By learning to identify and challenge negative thinking patterns, people can learn to manage their emotions more effectively and make healthier choices.

 

During CBT sessions, our clients learn skills they can use for the rest of their lives. They can make positive changes that lead to a more fulfilling life by developing a better understanding of themselves and their thought processes. With this partnership, Northstar Recovery Center is proud to offer this effective treatment modality to our clients, and we are committed to helping them achieve their goals.

Tufts insurance for addiction treatment in Massachusetts by Northstar Recovery Center

About Northstar Recovery Center

 

Northstar Recovery Center in Southborough, MA. Northstar offers a variety of treatment options tailored to each individual’s needs. From detox to outpatient care, Northstar is committed to helping those struggling with addiction get their lives back on track. What sets Northstar apart from other rehab centers? For one, the staff is truly exceptional. They are passionate about helping their patients recover and are always available to lend a listening ear or offer a helping hand. In addition, Northstar offers a beautiful and serene setting – perfect for those needing to escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life to focus on recovery.

 

About Tufts Insurance

 

Tufts Health Plan is one of the few health insurers in Massachusetts that offers individuals and families a comprehensive health insurance policy that includes coverage for preventive care, wellness visits, mental health services, and more. The company also offers a variety of supplemental policies, such as dental and vision insurance that you can add to a basic health plan. In addition, Tufts Health Plan offers a variety of discounts and incentives to encourage its members to lead healthy lifestyles. For example, the company offers a discount on gym memberships and gives its members access to a free online fitness program. The company also discounts healthy food choices at participating grocery stores. As a result, Tufts Health Plan is an excellent choice for those looking for comprehensive health insurance coverage.

 

Tufts Insurance’s Partnership Northstar Recovery Center is a life-saving organization that helps people struggling with addiction to get the treatment they need. This partnership will provide access to quality care and recovery services, making a real difference in the lives of those who participate.

WHO WE ARE
Northstar Recovery Center in Southborough, MA is made up of a team of experienced, dedicated, and compassionate addiction treatment professionals. We want to see our community heal from the effects of the opioid epidemic, alcohol addiction, and other substance use disorders.

Day Treatment Program in MA

Our day treatment program in Massachusetts, also referred to as an intensive outpatient program (IOP), is the highest level of health care offered at NorthStar Recovery Center. This outpatient addiction treatment option encompasses comprehensive clinical health care and behavioral health therapy services. In the initial stages of addiction recovery, it's crucial to have robust support to navigate both the physical and emotional challenges that come with pursuing long-term sobriety.

Our dedicated team at NorthStar Recovery Center, located in Southborough, MA, and West Springfield, MA, is committed to assisting you in establishing a solid foundation for a lifelong recovery from addiction to drugs and alcohol. Clients typically visit our outpatient addiction treatment center in Massachusetts each weekday for several hours, engaging in counseling sessions and other necessary interventions. This intensive outpatient therapy approach ensures a balanced and effective recovery process, tailored to individual needs within the framework of day treatment.

LEARN MORE ABOUT DAY TREATMENT PROGRAMS IN MA

Individual, Group, and Family Counseling in Massachusetts

Addiction thrives in isolation, which is why group counseling sessions are a foundational part of our addiction treatment services. In group sessions, you’ll gain perspective on your struggles with substance use disorder and can connect with others who understand your experiences.

Family counseling can help your loved ones understand the disease of addiction, navigate conflict, develop better coping tools, and build healthier relationships. In individual counseling sessions, you’ll be able to work through personal issues like past trauma with the help of experienced therapists at our alcohol and drug treatment centers. Improve your quality of life and pursue lifelong sobriety now.

Learn More About Addiction Counseling in Massachusetts

Contact Northstar Recovery Center

Let us guide you on your journey to recovery from addiction. Connect with our team today.
Call Us Now

Can Cognitive Behavioral Therapy Help an Alcoholic Partner?

Can Cognitive Behavioral Therapy Help an Alcoholic Partner?

Alcoholism and binge drinking can be frightening disorders, though if you or your loved ones are struggling, they’re not alone. According to a study from 2019, 25.8% of people aged 18 or older reported heavy binge drinking with 6.3% saying they engaged in frequent, and heavy alcohol use.

That’s close to 14.5 million people and of that number, only 10% get help or treatment. The thing is, treatment plans like CBT for alcohol misuse work, especially when combined with a PHP (Partial Hospitalization Program).

But what’s involved with CBT in particular? And can it really help an alcoholic partner? 

Read on to find out why it’s an effective solution.

Can Cognitive Behavioral Therapy Help an Alcoholic Partner?

What Is Cognitive Behavioral Therapy?

First, we should mention that CBT, or cognitive-behavioral therapy, is a proven treatment for AUD (alcohol use disorder), both as a standalone treatment and with other treatment plans.

It’s a short-term therapy scheme that typically involved 12 or fewer sessions to see results. The core principles focus on a person’s cognition, their beliefs about themselves and the world, as well as how they feel about the people around them. Within CBT, there are 3 levels of cognition to be aware of. These are:

  • Core beliefs
  • Cognitive distortions
  • Automatic thoughts

CBT aims to focus on these and work through any disruptions or traumas within those realms.

How Does It Work?

At its core, CBT differs from other therapies because it focuses on the attitudes and feelings which drive addiction. It then seeks to replace those behaviors with more positive and healthy thought patterns. The goal of CBT is to help those with AUD understand that what they are doing is potentially harmful, and seeks to offer coping mechanisms to help prevent them.

These are the 3 primary goals of CBT:

  • To change negative patterns of thought
  • To discourage unhelpful and harmful behaviors
  • To teach effective coping strategies

How CBT Differs From Other Therapies

Ultimately, CBT has a set of rules and benefits that it allows, all of which make it an outstanding solution for any kind of substance use disorder. The following characteristics are what actually set it apart from other kinds of therapy:

  • Accessibility
  • Problem-orientated
  • Collaborative
  • Self-driven
  • Present-day focused

As you can see, there’s a significant focus on the “now,” which a lot of therapies don’t cover. Many people struggling with AUD or other substance use disorders worry about the future and what’s to come, which drives them to seek coping solutions.

How CBT Works for Alcohol Misuse

When combined with other treatments, such as an intensive outpatient program (IOP) or alcohol therapy, CBT has been shown to be beneficial in treating alcohol addiction. Its effects are also typically more long-lasting than those of other treatments. When paired with a good PHP, CBT can be extremely helpful.

In fact, according to a study participants of a PHP were more associated with abstinence at their follow-ups than those who did not attend, though it’s important to note that aftercare planning is really important.

Below are some of the core techniques and principles of CBT, which is what makes it so effective in PHP and IOP systems.

Types of Techniques

While it may seem complicated at first, the techniques behind CBT are well researched and incredibly useful. They’re designed to target distorted thinking and help the patient improve their outlook on life. When done in combination, these techniques can be life-changing.

Cognitive Restructuring

The cognitive restructuring allows the person to notice problematic thinking processes. Patients can use this sort of talk therapy to identify and correct unfavorable thought patterns, also known as cognitive distortions. It can also help people rewire their negative abstinence beliefs.

Behavioral Assignments

You may know these as homework assignments, and they can be used to help someone apply what they’re learned once they leave the PHP. They’re ideal for helping a patient recover from alcoholism because they reinforce the ideas and behaviors learned in therapy. 

Completing these projects can help improve the long-term effectiveness of the treatment.

Exposure Therapy

While this can seem like traumatic therapy, it’s done in a safe and controlled environment. When the patient is exposed to their substance misuse signals, they’re more likely to experience the feelings they need to combat. This makes it easier for them to process those feelings with no real danger or potential setbacks.

Problem-Solving

This teaches patients how to cope with stressful events in their daily life. Some examples of areas that would benefit from problem-solving are: 

  • Chronic illnesses
  • Work pressures
  • Relationship concerns

This is a significant phase in the healing process since it helps patients overcome their AUD by teaching them to find healthy solutions to life’s challenges. 

Mindfulness and Breathing Skills

As part of CBT treatments, mental health practitioners will often teach relaxation and breathing methods. These techniques are a type of self-help that has several mental health benefits.

Not only can they help someone who is struggling reduce their stress and improve their overall health, but the desire to misuse their trigger substances may even be reduced. Breathing exercises have also been shown to help those with depression, which is linked to drinking.

Successive Approximation

This final technique is simple but incredibly effective. The idea is that we should reinforce positive behaviors in small approximations, increments, or steps. This is a process where the rewards for sobriety see a gradual increase. It’s gradual for a reason, since too much stimulation in one go, and then no validation can send the patient backward. 

Can Cognitive Behavioral Therapy Help an Alcoholic Partner? | Northstar Recovery Center in Southborough, MA | PHP IOP and OP in MA

How to Get Help With a PHP

Not only is CBT a universally recognized therapy technique on its own, but when it’s combined with a PHP in Massachusetts, it can also be incredibly rewarding and beneficial. This is because the patient will learn to:

  • Identify their distorted thinking patterns
  • Recognize their triggers
  • Develop coping strategies
  • Use critical thinking
  • Build their own path to treatment
  • Face their fears, not avoid them
  • Build their own confidence
  • Communicate in more effective ways

A PHP is also particularly useful for those who need more access to medical staff but don’t want to or need to go through an inpatient process. This is also especially good for those who have already finished a residential treatment plan but have a chance of relapsing.

Starting the Journey to Recovery

Remember, there’s no stigma to seeking help. It’s for the betterment of everyone, including you and your loved ones. Everyone deserves the best quality of life they can get, and alcohol makes that challenging.

So if you’re at a point where you’re considering addiction treatment in MA and are looking for a great PHP center, look no further than North Star Recovery Center. Contact us today to see how we can help you and your partner achieve a healthier, happier life.

WHO WE ARE
Northstar Recovery Center in Southborough, MA is made up of a team of experienced, dedicated, and compassionate addiction treatment professionals. We want to see our community heal from the effects of the opioid epidemic, alcohol addiction, and other substance use disorders.

Day Treatment Program in MA

Our day treatment program in Massachusetts, also referred to as an intensive outpatient program (IOP), is the highest level of health care offered at NorthStar Recovery Center. This outpatient addiction treatment option encompasses comprehensive clinical health care and behavioral health therapy services. In the initial stages of addiction recovery, it's crucial to have robust support to navigate both the physical and emotional challenges that come with pursuing long-term sobriety.

Our dedicated team at NorthStar Recovery Center, located in Southborough, MA, and West Springfield, MA, is committed to assisting you in establishing a solid foundation for a lifelong recovery from addiction to drugs and alcohol. Clients typically visit our outpatient addiction treatment center in Massachusetts each weekday for several hours, engaging in counseling sessions and other necessary interventions. This intensive outpatient therapy approach ensures a balanced and effective recovery process, tailored to individual needs within the framework of day treatment.

LEARN MORE ABOUT DAY TREATMENT PROGRAMS IN MA

Individual, Group, and Family Counseling in Massachusetts

Addiction thrives in isolation, which is why group counseling sessions are a foundational part of our addiction treatment services. In group sessions, you’ll gain perspective on your struggles with substance use disorder and can connect with others who understand your experiences.

Family counseling can help your loved ones understand the disease of addiction, navigate conflict, develop better coping tools, and build healthier relationships. In individual counseling sessions, you’ll be able to work through personal issues like past trauma with the help of experienced therapists at our alcohol and drug treatment centers. Improve your quality of life and pursue lifelong sobriety now.

Learn More About Addiction Counseling in Massachusetts

Contact Northstar Recovery Center

Let us guide you on your journey to recovery from addiction. Connect with our team today.
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