Substance Abuse


OverviewCharacteristics of Substance Abuse

Substance abuse can create problems with one’s personal life and employment. If you are struggling with chemical dependency, we offer substance abuse counseling in Missouri tailored to your needs. We are not here to judge but to provide the counseling you need to become the best version of yourself.

Substance Abuse is characterized by:
  • Substances are often taken in larger amounts or over a longer period of time than intended
  • Persistent desire or unsuccessful attempts to cut down or control substance use
  • A great deal of time is spent in activities necessary to obtain the substance, use the substance, or recovering from its effects
  • Craving, or a strong desire, or urge to use the substance
  • Recurrent substance use resulting in a failure to fulfill major role obligations at work, school, or home
  • Continued substance abuse despite having persistent or recurrent social or interpersonal problems caused or made worse by the effects of the substance usage.
  • Important social, work, or recreational activities are given up or reduced because of substance abuse
  • Repeated substance use in situations in which it is physically hazardous
  • Continued substance usage despite knowing that is making other psychological issues worse

If you feel like you relate to some or all of these symptoms, please feel free to schedule an appointment and speak to a therapist about them and how we can help.


FAQs

Q1. How to deal with substance abuse?

Dealing with substance abuse starts by recognizing there’s a problem and asking for help. Here’s how you can begin:

  1. Talk to Someone: Reach out to a friend, family member, or counselor. Having someone to talk to makes a big difference.
  2. Get Professional Help: A counselor or therapist can guide you in finding the right treatment. You can also contact Insightful Behavioral Health to book an appointment and receive personalized care to address your mental health needs.
  3. Join a Support Group: Groups like Alcoholics Anonymous (AA) or Narcotics Anonymous (NA) offer support from others who understand what you’re going through.
  4. Find Healthy Ways to Cope: Replace substance use with things like exercise, hobbies, or relaxation techniques that make you feel good.
  5. Stay Committed: Recovery takes time. There might be tough moments, but keep going and don’t hesitate to ask for help when you need it.

Q2. What is the role of Counselling in drug abuse?

Counseling plays a crucial role in helping individuals overcome drug abuse by providing support, guidance, and strategies to manage addiction. It helps individuals understand the underlying reasons for their substance use, such as emotional pain, stress, or past trauma, and address these issues in a healthy way. Counseling also teaches coping skills to manage cravings, triggers, and difficult emotions without turning to drugs.

Therapists use different techniques, like cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), to help individuals change negative thought patterns and behaviors related to drug use. Group therapy can also offer support from others who understand the struggles of addiction. The ultimate goal of counseling in drug abuse is to help individuals break free from addiction, build healthier habits, and maintain long-term recovery.