Substance Abuse

Essay by brad101College, Undergraduate July 2014

download word file, 3 pages 0.0

Evidence Based Psychosocial Intervention in Substance Abuse

Brad L. Harris

Michael W. Blankenship

Psychology 150 RD1

6/12/2014

Substance abuse has become a very hot topic in the field of Psychology. Addiction and physical dependence is one of the most difficult and complex areas of mental health. Thus, substance abuse can be difficult to treat, and there is a good deal of debate surrounding the causes of addiction and the best form of treatments. Matching the most effective treatment to the individual can increase the chances of recovery, giving the addict a new lease on life. They become healthier physically and mentally, decreasing chances of viruses and illegal behavior while increasing personal relationships and employment (Jhanjee, 2014).

Several types of therapy can be helpful in this process. Cognitive behavior therapy and motivational interviewing therapy, which relies on the addicts' inspiration to change, both have proven to be effective in this area.

Though this can be more effective when combined with other forms of treatment and used as a foundation. The goal is to eliminate or reduce substance abuse, done with the patient and therapist in scheduled sessions on a regular basis. The better the relationship is between the doctor and patient and the longer the patient is active in the recovery process, the better their chances of success will be (Jhanjee, 2014). Psychosocial treatments are not currently a standard procedure but they are considered a foundation for treatment. Psychological treatments can be done one-on-one or in groups, combined with medical treatment, and either brief or intensive.

Some programs such as the Brief Intervention counseling are geared toward alcohol and tobacco abuse. This form of counseling can be considered low cost and very effective if patient is sincere about making a change. Motivational Interviewing is also successful with alcohol use, most effective...