1. A Substance Abuse Treatment Plan Will Identify the Substance Being Abused
The first thing that any substance abuse treatment plan should include is the identification of the substance being abused. Someone addicted to opiate pain medications may require different steps and withdrawal management measures than someone who is an alcoholic or a person who has a problem with marijuana abuse.
2. Withdrawal Management is a Key Component with a Substance Abuse Treatment Plan
Once the substance being abused has been identified then the substance abuse treatment plan should cover the withdrawal management measures that will be taken. There are options that may be available to help with cravings, physical withdrawal symptoms, and other aspects. The methods provided will be determined by the actual addiction being treated.
3. Identifying Goals and Listing Steps are Crucial to any Plan Developed
The substance abuse treatment plan should always list all of the treatment goals, and manageable steps that will be used to reach these goals. This provides a road map that can be very helpful, both for the patient and for those who are providing treatment.
4. Any Mental Disorders and Other Contributing Factors Need to be Identified and Addressed
If a dual diagnosis has been made then the substance abuse treatment plan should show this factor, and any other contributing factors should also be shown in this important document as well. The plan should include the steps that will be taken to address each contributing factor so that a full recovery is reached.
5. Diet, Exercise, Stress Management, and Anger Management can be Helpful for Recovery
Diet, exercise, and ways to manage stress and anger should always be included in any substance abuse treatment plan. If these are neglected then you will not be healthy, and this could cause a relapse later on.
What else do you think a substance abuse treatment plan should cover?
