As addiction treatment becomes talked about more throughout the US, friends and families of individuals suffering from addiction are looking to learn more about the disease. The realm of substance abuse and addiction can seem overwhelming but at the end of the day there are ways to help and support loved ones working through it.
Research and data on substance abuse disorder has been increasing in popularity as well. Today, there are multiple publications with government and medically-backed information available to the public.
How To Start Learning About Addiction
With the collective knowledge of the world available at our fingertips, the easiest way to begin learning is to start researching. The sheer amount of information available online is immense so don’t be scared to get specific with the questions you ask Google.
The three most reputable and cited sources available are the Mayo Clinic, the National Institute on Drug Abuse and the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration. You’ll likely notice that these are cited in our own blogs due to their accuracy and depth of knowledge.
Each of these sites also provides easy access to the information unlike some scholarly sites that require payment in order to read research papers published there. Accessibility is the most important part of addiction learning.
Don’t Be Afraid to Talk About It
The number of those addicted to or abusing drugs and alcohol is higher than you may think. Those who have experienced it through a loved one number even higher and will often share their story with you.
Understanding the facts of addiction is important but getting personal insights from those who have been through it can bring new insights you can’t find online. Talking about addiction and the treatment process can even provide a better understanding of how rehabilitation and treatment programs unfold for the individual and their family members.
Ask a Professional
If you go to or know a counselor or therapist, ask them about addiction and how it works. They’ll be able to translate research into easily understood terms that you can then share with others going forward.
We also encourage anyone with questions on addiction and treatment to reach out to Hickory Treatment Centers for a confidential consultation. Keeping the conversation going is how we can all work towards a better understanding of addiction throughout our communities.
Treatment Is Still the Best Option To Address Addiction
Being able to better support and talk to a loved one in recovery or seeking treatment is the greatest gift you can give them. That being said, they’ll still need professional help in order to achieve and maintain sobriety. Addiction is a lifelong struggle that requires ongoing care on top of compassionate treatment.
If you or a loved one is in need of treatment for drug or alcohol abuse, Hickory Treatment Centers is here to help. One phone call can be all it takes to get started on the path to recovery and a sober lifestyle so please contact us today.
