Controlled use
Controlled use of substances: There are different opinions on the question whether only the permanent abstinence from a substance or also a controlled use is a good therapeutic tool in the fight against addiction. In fact, there is evidence that some patients are more able to consume a defined amount of alcohol and not to consume anything else. A similar approach is followed in the treatment of opiate addicts. Substitution with artificial opiates, such as methadone, can counteract both the high risk of infection and frequent criminal behaviour. Parallel to this, psychotherapeutic measures are being carried out.
Psychotherapeutic methods
Psychotherapeutic methods (simplified presentation): In recent years, as knowledge about both the disorder and possible measures has improved, a special disease-related approach has developed.Therapy motivation: Therapeutic work to promote therapy motivation is divided into several stages.
- The motivation for therapy
- Prevention of a relapse
- Stage:Analysis of the problem and its backgroundIn this first important step, the therapist and the patient clarify which cause was ultimately responsible for starting therapy. Furthermore it is clarified which positive consequences such a treatment can bring with itself.
Furthermore, the expectations of the patient himself/herself and of a possible abstinence are analyzed.
- Stage: Identifying factors that help change and factors that might inhibit change. In this stage, the patient and the therapist clarify, for example, the risk of a relapse if the patient remains in his familiar environment. In this phase it is also important for the patient to think about the time after completion of the therapy (future perspectives)
- Stage: GoalsIn this stage of therapy, realistic goals must be worked out together with the patient.
For example, one can clarify whether there is a real desire for abstinence, or whether the patient was in favour of controlled drinking or continued habits. Only if a patient can set himself credibly realistic goals, the therapy will be successful in the long run.
- Level Ranking: In this level, divides seals are formulated, which are particularly important for the patient. For this purpose, the patient creates a ranking list, on which above all goals are formulated, which lead as fast as possible to a success experience.
- Stage of therapy implementation: This stage is about implementing the goals worked out in the previous stages.
Furthermore, the patient learns, for example, how to improve their own abilities, which are necessary for a lasting change in behavior. Furthermore, he learns to observe himself in different situations in order to maintain his own self-control. Last but not least, stimuli which could lead to a relapse are deleted.
