Addiction & Recovery
Being addicted to drugs and alcohol (often called substance use disorder) can look very different depending on the individual affected. However, one study found a common theme among people in recovery: they reported that they felt a sense of losing control over their lives– physically, financially, and emotionally– and that led to substance use problems. Life while in the throes of their addiction became almost like a downward spiral, where it became impossible to function normally, and sometimes leading to destructive behaviors like lying and stealing to support the addiction.
But substance use disorder isn’t just limited to drugs and alcohol. It can include addictions to gambling, video games, shopping, and other risky behaviors. And addictions to certain behaviors can negatively effect a person’s life just as much as any drug.
Getting support of some kind is an important step in the recovery process, and thankfully there are many options to choose from where a person can match their particular needs to a treatment program or clinic.
The majority of people in alcohol and substance use recovery programs utilize more than one method of treatment. Common options for treatment include: various support groups like 12-step or SMART Recovery, in-patient and outpatient centers, criminal justice programs, and “complementary” treatments like energy work, massage, and acupuncture.
A commonly-used acupuncture treatment for various addictions involves the use of needles in patients’ ears. Called the National Acupuncture Detoxification Association (NADA) Protocol, this simple treatment has been shown to reduce cravings to use, calm the nervous system, and decrease negative feelings like anger and frustration. These shorter treatments are offered at CG Acu for a reduced price, since patients are encouraged to come in as frequently as possible for NADA treatment (one to three times per week is common).
Traditional Chinese Medicine offers more than just NADA treatment, however, in supporting the addiction recovery process. For example, treating alcoholism with herbal medicine has a very long history.
Each treatment is tailored to the individual, created with their unique needs in mind. Patients can also be assured that their treatments will offer a “safe space,” free of judgment and instead focused on their healing.
Are you ready for a new approach to address your addiction?