The Mental Health Condition That Kills Thousands Every Year And What Can Be Done About It
There is an extremely important subject that is rarely discussed. It is something that affects thousands of people worldwide, but is sadly considered taboo to talk about. What subject am I referring to? Substance abuse and addiction.
Many are afraid to admit they have problem, to others, or even to themselves. But it must be acknowledged that this is a very serious mental health condition. If a person remains untreated they are putting their life at risk.
The Statistics
It has been estimated that substance abuse is to blame for the deaths of 47,000 Canadians each year.
One study by the Center for Addiction and Mental Health (CAMH) shows that Canadians drink alcohol more than 50 percent above the worldwide average.
CAMH also reports that alcohol is the third leading cause of disease and injury globally.
What Can be Done?
Something that may start small, can quickly lead to addiction. Dependence on drugs and alcohol can lead to many short term and long term problems.
Addiction is a psychological dependence that is frequently caused by, or accompanied by another mental disorder. It has been estimated that people with substance abuse problems are up to three times more likely to have a mental illness.
As with any illness, addiction is a serious issue that requires the assistance of someone that is well versed in the problem. Drug rehabs may be the right place for you, or your loved one, to get the help needed.
Rehab centres are equipped with health professionals that can offer assistance for anyone that has a substance abuse issue, whether it is illegal drugs, prescription drugs, or alcohol.
Here are some of the many possible benefits of drug abuse rehab centers:
- Helps With Withdrawal The initial withdrawal process can be difficult and painful, why go through it alone? How much better to have medical personnel by your side helping you through the detoxification process.
Removal From a Negative Environment Sights, sounds, and smells are all common triggers for a person that has problem with addiction. Trying to break free from a dependency while remaining in the same environment will just make it that much harder. Drug rehabs allow you to be removed from most temptations.
Provides Psychological and Emotional Support As mentioned, addiction is a mental, or psychological, issue and it needs to be treated as such. Inpatient rehabs offer therapy and treatment programs that will help rebuild and fortify the mind. These programs offer needed support during the process of breaking the dependance. They also provide the tools to continue future recovery, teaching coping mechanisms and how to deal with stress.
Drug rehabs are generally what is needed to learn how to keep addiction and substance abuse under control, allowing time to completely focus on recovery.
Recovery may be a difficult path, but it is possible. However, it does not need to be a path that you go down alone. We all need help at times, and help is available.
If you or a loved one is struggling with a substance abuse of any kind, please take steps today to get started on the path to recovery.