It goes without saying that overcoming alcohol and substance abuse is not easy and needs both time and patience. However, one needs to be strong, physically, mentally and emotionally. To help a patient, there are numerous treatment options for alcohol and substance abuse available in the country. Choosing the best option will depend on the health condition, severity of addiction and type of addiction.

Detoxification and Withdrawal
This is one of the most important treatment options for alcohol and substance abuse. One may have to undergo a program of detoxification and take medications for about two to seven days. Sedative medicines are usually given to protect the patient from withdrawal symptoms. This treatment is done in a certified hospital or treatment centre.

Self Help
With the help of counselors or alcohol and substance abuse treatment specialists, the patient learns about goal settings, behavioral changes, self-help, and gradually gets better.

Psychological Counseling
Counseling and therapy sessions are conducted for groups and individuals to understand the problems or dilemmas they are facing during the treatment. Couple therapy and family therapy are a part of this process and can help a patient in the recovery process.

Oral Medications
There are many over-the-counter medications available, which can be used as treatment options for alcohol and substance abuse. Medications such as Antabuse, Naltrexone, Acamprosate, Acamprosate, and Topiramate prevent a person from drinking, block the good feelings that suibstances and alcohol cause, curb cravings, and deter drinking habits. Some of them even lead to vomiting, which flushes out alcohol from the system.

Cognitive Behavior Therapy
It is one of the best treatment options for alcohol and substance abuse. In this, addicts learn to recognize their behavior, learn about coping skills in risky situations, and learn how to handle relapse symptoms.

Contingency Management
This therapy is effective in treating different types of substance abuse, such as alcohol, opioids, marijuana, and other stimulants. Contingency Management encourages sobriety and prevents relapse.

Exercise
Exercising helps by reducing stress and other withdrawal symptoms. Yoga also helps in treating alcohol and substance abuse. The breathing exercises soothe one’s mind and relieve any physical tension, making a person feel mentally and physically strong. Meditation sessions work very well to reduce anxiety, depression, and relapse.

Massage
Massages help relax the mind and the body and help in managing various withdrawal symptoms. Essential oils used in massages can help reduce insomnia, anxiety, and tension too.

Rational Emotive Behavior Therapy (REBT)
REBT helps a patient to be aware of their thoughts and work accordingly towards achieving a set goal. They also learn to develop healthy habits and are trained to think of a better future.

The various treatment options for alcohol and substance abuse listed above not only help in overcoming the addiction, but also help in managing stress, improving self-esteem and self-belief, and enhancing overall wellbeing.