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Benefits of Seeking Treatment for Substance Abuse

Seeking treatment for substance abuse is a key step toward recovery and can improve a person’s quality of life. The benefits of entering a treatment program go beyond overcoming addiction. They can include physical, mental, social and financial improvements. If you’re working toward recovery, here are some ways a treatment program can improve your life:

Physical Health

  • Reduced Harm: Treatment helps reduce the physical harm caused by substance abuse, including the risk of overdose, organ damage and infectious diseases.
  • Better Health: As individuals recover, they often report improvements in overall health, energy levels and physical appearance.

Mental Wellness

  • Treatment of Disorders: Many substance abuse treatment programs also address mental health disorders such as depression, anxiety, or PTSD.
  • Improved Thinking: Abstinence from substances can lead to clearer thinking and better decision making.

Relationships

  • Rebuilding Trust: Recovery can help individuals improve relationships with family and friends that may have been damaged by the behaviors associated with addiction.
  • Social Support: Treatment programs often help individuals build new, healthy relationships with others who are supportive of their recovery journey.

Legal Issues

  • Avoidance of Crime: Overcoming addiction can help individuals avoid activities that could lead to legal trouble, such as DUIs or drug-related offenses.
  • Improved Legal Standing: Successfully completing a treatment program can positively affect legal proceedings or penalties related to substance abuse.

Financial Stability

  • Job Opportunities: Recovery can lead to better job performance and stability, as well as new employment opportunities.
  • Improved Finances: Eliminating the cost of substances, along with avoiding legal fees and fines, can significantly improve financial stability.

Personal Growth

  • Improved Self-Esteem: Overcoming the challenges of addiction can boost self-confidence.
  • New Interests: Individuals in recovery often discover new hobbies and interests that replace the time and energy previously spent on substance use.

Relapse Prevention

  • Skills and Tools: Treatment programs teach coping techniques and skills to deal with cravings and triggers, reducing the likelihood of relapse.
  • Ongoing Support: Many programs offer ongoing support and follow-up care to help individuals maintain their sobriety.

Paying it Forward

  • Positive Role Model: Recovering individuals can become role models for others who are dealing with addiction.

Ready to Seek Help? Start Here

Service Members who seek help for substance abuse are strong and courageous for recognizing they need help with their condition. By seeking help, you are tackling an issue head on and can avoid the problems substance abuse can cause in your career if you continue down that path. Even after you’ve decided to get help, it can be tough to know where to start. Fortunately, there are several resources available.

  • Each branch of the military has tailored substance abuse programs offering prevention, education, counseling and treatment.
  • Addiction Resources: The military offers robust support for service members and families facing addiction.
    • Treatment options: Services may include detox, inpatient and outpatient care, counseling and support groups.
    • Family resources: Family members of service members can access addiction treatment through TRICARE.
  • Helplines: Support is always available to help individuals take the first step toward a healthier future.
    • Military OneSource: Call 800-342-9647 for assistance navigating military-specific resources.
    • Military Crisis Line: Dial 988 and press 1 for immediate support.
    • SAMHSA’s National Helpline: Call 800-662-HELP (4357) for confidential support and referrals to treatment programs.

Seeking treatment for substance abuse is a journey that not only addresses the addiction itself but also improves many aspects of an individual’s life. It can provide the tools and support needed for a lasting recovery, allowing individuals to rebuild their lives and achieve long-term health and happiness.

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