On this occasion, in the Program Behavioral Clinic BACK For PSICOVISION TV, we spoke with its Director, Mr. Hanoi Vargas, Psychologist Specialist in Addictions and their Treatment.

In the interview, arguments and general considerations about Addictions, their Identification, and their Treatment are presented, and in this article we want to address these points, with the aim of providing even more exhaustive information for those who may be interested.

 

Identification and Treatment of Addictions

Addictions are a global problem that affects people of all ages, genders and socioeconomic backgrounds.

It is crucial to understand that addictions can affect anyone and that treatment is essential to help those struggling with these debilitating diseases.

What is an addiction?

An addiction refers to the chronic dependence on a substance or behavior that produces pleasurable effects but that in the long term is harmful to the physical, mental, social or emotional health of the person.

Addictions can manifest themselves in various ways, including:

• Substance Addiction: It involves dependence on chemical substances such as drugs, alcohol or medications. Substance addiction is a chronic disease that involves physical and mental dependence on a substance, and is characterized by compulsive seeking of the substance, loss of control over its use, and persistence in its consumption despite the negative consequences in the life of the individual.
• Behavioral Addiction: They include anything that is a behavioral dependency, also known as behavioral addictions, they are repetitive and compulsive patterns of behavior that can become significant problems in a person's life. Some examples of behavioral addictions include: gambling addiction, addiction to food, compulsive shopping, work, exercise, sex addiction, or also Technological Addictions, such as Addiction to social networks, cell phone addiction. , or excessive use of the internet.
• Codependency or "Addictive Relationships": They are patterns of behavior in which someone becomes emotionally dependent on another person, often in unhealthy or destructive relationships. This may include a constant search for approval, attention, or affection from the other person, even though this relationship is harmful.

In all cases, addictions share the characteristic of a compulsive search for the substance or activity, loss of control over its use, and persistence in its use despite negative consequences.

 

When Can a Person Be Considered to Have an Addiction?

Identifying when a person has an addiction can be challenging, as addictions can manifest gradually and vary in severity.

However, there are common signs and symptoms that may indicate the presence of an addiction:

• Excessive or Compulsive Consumption: The person uses the substance or performs the activity excessively and compulsively, often in larger quantities or for longer periods than planned.
• Lost of control: The inability to control or reduce the amount of use or participation in the addictive activity.
• Tolerance: The need to increase the amount or intensity to achieve the same desired effects.
• Withdrawal Symptoms: Experiencing unpleasant physical or psychological symptoms when trying to reduce or quit the addictive substance or activity.
• Negligence of Obligations: Neglect of work, family or social responsibilities due to time dedicated to addiction.
• Interference in Daily Life: Addiction significantly interferes with a person's daily life, including personal relationships, work, health, and finances.
• Continuation Despite the Consequences: Despite the negative consequences, the person continues to use the substance or engage in the addictive activity.

The presence of several of these signs and symptoms may indicate an addiction problem. It is important to remember that the severity of addiction can vary, from mild to severe.

 

How Can You Solve an Addiction?

Addiction treatment is a complex process that generally involves multiple stages.

Each person is unique, so treatment must be personalized to address your specific needs, and in the Behavioral Clinic BACK We provide all types of addiction treatments.

Below are some key strategies and approaches to treating addictions:

• Detox: Detoxification is the process of physically removing the substance from the body. It can be the first step in treating substance addictions and is often done under medical supervision to safely manage withdrawal symptoms.
• Individual Therapy: Individual therapy provides a confidential environment where the patient can explore the underlying causes of their addiction, learn coping skills, and set recovery goals.
• Group Therapy: Group therapy allows patients to share their experiences, receive support, and learn from others facing similar challenges.
• Family therapy: Involving the family in the treatment process can help address dysfunctional family dynamics and strengthen the patient's support system.
• Medicines: In some cases, medications may be prescribed to aid recovery and reduce withdrawal symptoms.
• Monitoring and Prevention of Relapses: Continuous monitoring and relapse prevention are essential to maintaining long-term sobriety. Ongoing support and relapse prevention strategies help patients stay focused on their recovery.

Addictions are a challenge that affects people of all types, but with the right support and specialized treatment, recovery is possible.

It is essential to seek help early and not be afraid to seek the support necessary to overcome an addiction and recover a healthy life free of dependencies.

In the Behavioral Clinic BACK We are Specialists in Addiction Treatment, and we have a highly trained multidisciplinary professional team.

 

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