Addiction

At least 66% of Americans say drug and alcohol addiction has affected their lives, and many others struggle with gambling and other types of addiction. At Spectrum Behavioral Health in New Lenox and Hinsdale, Illinois, a group of dedicated behavioral health specialists offers evaluations and a wide array of treatments to help you conquer your struggles. Addiction is challenging, so you need solid support. Get it today by calling the nearest Spectrum Behavioral Health office or clicking the online scheduling feature.

How is addiction defined?

Addiction is a disease primarily marked by compulsive, unhealthy behaviors around substances or activities that create pleasure or other gratification.

Of the many types of addiction, the most common ones are drug and alcohol addiction. Gambling addiction is also common, and many people struggle with compulsive behaviors around sex.

What are the signs of addiction?

Addiction signs vary with the person and kind of addiction. General signs of addiction that apply to many situations include:

• Lack of control over using a substance or engaging in a behavior
• Needing to use a substance or engage in a behavior with increasing frequency
• Being unable to cease substance use or stop the behaviors
• Neglecting other aspects of your life (relationships, work, or other)
• Increasingly risky behaviors to feed the addiction
• Withdrawal symptoms when not using the drug or engaging in the behavior

Addiction is different for everyone. The Spectrum Behavioral Health team recognizes these differences. They take the time to understand your situation and personalize your treatment plan.

What causes addiction?

There’s no simple answer. Addiction is highly complex. The American Society of Addiction Medicine (ASAM) says that many things contribute to addiction, including brain chemistry, genetics, environment, and personal history.

How is addiction treated?

Addiction treatment at Spectrum Behavioral Health covers your physical, mental, and emotional health. The team of experts provides all-encompassing addiction care, including:

Evaluation

Evaluation involves carefully examining your medical history, environment, upbringing, and much more. Your evaluation helps the team diagnose your disorder.

Traditional therapy

Traditional therapy like cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) can teach you new coping skills and responses and help you achieve and maintain recovery. CBT is usually combined with other therapies.

Alternative therapy

Alternative therapy uses leading-edge techniques to guide you to long-term recovery. Several evidence-based treatments fall into this category, including eye movement desensitization and reprocessing (EMDR) and brainspotting.

Medication 

Some medications are highly effective for people struggling with specific addictions. For example, medication-assisted treatment helps people with substance abuse avoid debilitating withdrawal symptoms so that they can recover comfortably.

Medications like antidepressants can help people with addiction who also have a mental health disorder (dual diagnosis).

Spectrum Behavioral Health offers complete addiction support. Book an office or telehealth visit online or by phone today.