DRUG ABUSE

Many people who have problems with drug abuse also suffer from some sort of mental health disorder; often times, drug abuse is an attempt of a person to "self medicate" the emotional or mental problems that they are facing. Studies have shown that often drug abuse can catalyze mental and emotional disorders or if mental illnesses exist already drug abuse will increase the severity of the disorder. Sometimes, a person who is living with drug abuse will not even recognize that they have a form of mental illness. Through drug abuse, they may be self-medicating and not even realize it.

People who experience drug abuse in combination with a mental health illness may be resistant to treatment and recovery, because they may deny the problem when confronted with their behaviors. Many times, a drug treatment intervention may be required to address the drug abuse behaviors and the problems it is causing, so that the person ideally will be confronted with facts they cannot ignore. The initial step is to treat the drug abuse, but it is important to remember that drug abuse is often simply a symptom of a greater, deeper, underlying problem.

Once a person realizes their drug abuse, further evaluation can reveal what mental illnesses may exist, whether they were created by the drug abuse and the effect it has had on the person's brain, or whether the drug abuse was simply an attempt to medicate themselves in order to deal with the illness and every day life.

It is extremely important to uncover any underlying mental health problems that may exist when treating drug abuse. Studies have shown that if mental illness and drug addiction coexist, clients who go through a treatment program have a higher incidence of relapse. This often occurs because the drug abuse is treated without fully treating the mental health of a client as well.

At Gulf Coast Recovery, every effort is made to address not only a client's drug abuse, but also the "root" of the problem, often mental illness. Whether the cause is mild depression or a more serious disorder, each client at Gulf Coast Recovery is given individualized treatment that includes group therapy, individual counseling, and medication, if necessary. Gulf Coast Recovery understands that every client is unique, and their recovery from drug abuse and good emotional and mental health works hand in hand.

Located in a serene, tranquil setting, on the beautiful Gulf of Mexico, Gulf Coast Recovery allows for the best possible recovery experience. By creating a pleasant environment that enables a client to fully focus on recovery, successful treatment can be achieved, the first time. Facilities include an onsite Jacuzzi, laundry facilities, weekly barbecues, fishing access, monthly boating excursions to Egmont Key, and local beach access.

If you or someone you love is struggling with drug abuse, call Gulf Coast Recovery Center today to receive more information on treatment options and programs.