Special Populations

Addiction treatment will vary by population. So what types of therapies are offered for specific groups and their needs? We review here.

5
minute read

Q: Is there addiction treatment for men?

A: Yes.

Addiction treatment designed for men follows the same basic steps and procedures of other programs – assessment, detox, psychological and behavioral treatment, after care. However, gender specific needs for emotional expression and psychological /behavioral change can be better adapted when men are in a supportive community. Men can adapt to life in addiction recovery with the help of peers, and learn tools for internal motivation and discipline in a group setting.

Q: Why is addiction treatment for women important?

A: Because this demographic is often dealing with past trauma and abuse that is gender specific.

In fact, women face unique problems and barriers that are specific to their own demographic. Aside from the typical barriers, such as finances and careers, female addiction treatment barriers may include:

  • fear of losing custody of their children
  • feelings of shame and embarrassment
  • financial barriers
  • inability to find a suitable program
  • lack of child care during treatment
  • no insurance
  • parental and family obligations
  • untreated mental illness

Finding addiction treatment for women is not always difficult, but it can be embarrassing, confusing, or frustrating for some. Keep in mind, though, that there are a number of different places that addicted women can turn to for addiction treatment. More on gender specific treatment for women here:

Q: Is addiction treatment for youth different than that for adults?

A: Yes.

Adolescent and youth based addiction treatment programs are different than traditional adult addiction treatment, but still involves similar steps. It’s crucial to treat adolescent addiction early, as it can lead to much more serious problems down the road. Teenagers are in a different stage in their lives, one which is often more confusing and difficult at times. Some of the key components of a youth addiction treatment program include:

  • Behavioral therapy
  • Family involvement
  • Healthcare services
  • Home visits
  • Peer to peer support
  • Psychiatric assessments and treatment
  • Positive reinforcement, such as rewards and incentives
  • Recreational activities
  • Social interaction

More here on:

Q: How do treatment centers address different communities in the U.S.?

A: By offering specialized programs for minority populations.

Most traditional addiction treatment programs place a high emphasis on the privacy and safety of the clients, and have a strict no-discrimination policy. However, this doesn’t always stop discrimination, nor does it usually make individuals more comfortable in treatment.

Additionally, some individuals often have a number of barriers to addiction treatment. These barriers can seriously decrease the chances of a person seeking or remaining in addiction treatment. Common barriers to addiction treatment barriers can include:

  • failed past addiction treatment
  • fear of ridicule or harassment due to their lifestyle
  • financial difficulties
  • perceived stigma surrounding addiction treatment
  • work, school, or family responsibilities

More on how treatment helps address these problems by community here:

Q: Is there addiction treatment available for professionals?

A: Absolutely!

Today, substance abuse is believed to affect more and more professionals, and addiction treatment is essential for overcoming the resulting addictions. Professionals, like other members of our society, do have some special needs when it comes to treatment, however. Addiction treatment programs for professionals should include the following for the greatest chances of success.

  • addiction education
  • individualized treatment plans
  • group counseling with like-minded individuals
  • focus on family during the recovery process
  • strong focus on aftercare

Addicted professionals should not be ashamed of their addiction, nor are they alone. There are number of places where they can turn for help, starting with their own doctors. Medical professionals typically have the ability to screen individuals for addiction and refer them to a suitable treatment program. Some companies may also have programs in place to help addicted professionals as well.

Also, going through addiction treatment, does not necessarily adversely affect a professional’s career. For instance, many employers will now hold a professional’s position until she completes an addiction treatment program. The employee is simply considered to be away on medical leave during treatment. To find out about addiction treatment services that your employer may offer, professionals can speak to their supervisors or members of the human resources department.

Q: Does addiction treatment exist for seniors?

A: Yes.

Substance abuse and addiction among the elderly is a growing problem in the United States. Recent studies have shown that nearly 20% of elderly individuals in this country may have a substance abuse problem. Some seniors may have used drugs throughout their life, while others may have started abusing drugs or alcohol in their later years. Late onset substance abuse in seniors is typically brought on by major life changes, such as retirement, loss of a spouse, or medical problems.

Seniors who are struggling with addictions, should not hesitate to ask for help. Fortunately, there are a number of places that addicted seniors can turn to for help. Loved ones will often be more than willing to help addicted seniors find help for their substance abuse problems. Primary physicians are also great people for addicted senior to turn to, and finally, the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration website has a substance abuse treatment facility locator. This tool can be used to locate addiction treatment programs in specific areas. It can also be used to filter the results to include only facilities that offer services suitable to an elderly person’s situation, such as those that accept Medicare, offer payment assistance, and focus on treating the elderly.

More information here:

Q: How does addiction treatment meet specific needs?

A: By specializing treatment offerings.

Specific treatment centers offer programs for specific populations. One ways to find addiction treatment for specific needs is via the online treatment facility locator tool on the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) website. This tool can be used to locate local addiction treatment facilities and narrow the search results down to those that specialize in providing treatment for the following populations:

Q: Does the government offer addiction treatment for veterans?

A: Yes.

The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA is one of the best places for addicted veterans to turn to when they need addiction treatment. Most veterans are eligible for VA Health Benefits, which typically help cover the cost of mental health services, including addiction treatment. Any veteran interested in applying for these benefits can do so online, over the phone, or by visiting the nearest VA medical center. Some of these VA medical centers also offer addiction treatment that is designed specifically for veterans. More here.

Let’s verify your coverage for treatment at an American Addiction Centers location. Your information is kept 100% confidential.

 

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