Substance Abuse Treatment

Question

I am a cocaine addict and I am a daily heavy drinker. I do not think I am an alcoholic but I think I am physically addicted to alcohol. I tried to stop on my own last month and I had to stop when the shaking got so bad I realized I was in danger. I tried to wean myself off alcohol but this was hopeless. I am on a waiting list at the county medical detox and I am supposed to go in next week. They are strongly recommending that I do their intensive outpatient program after. I am not sure if I can stay clean on my own. I can manage to stop drinking but I cannot stay off cocaine and then when I do cocaine I always drink. I do not have health insurance so I would have to find some free rehab somewhere like maybe at the Salvation Army. Do you recommend that I do the intensive outpatient program or the free rehab?

Katie Brooks · Accepted Answer

Hi there-

I understand your dilemma. The detox process is just the first step in your recovery. You will definitely need an after care program. The Salvation Army is highly religious and there are some requirements to the program that you should make sure you could commit to. If you are highly religious or do not mind being counseled in this way, then I recommend saving some money. On the other hand, if you are not religious this might be a distraction for you.

An Intensive Outpatient Program will be expensive, but you will most likely get evidenced based treatments from highly skilled professionals. It sounds to me like you have a serious and life-threatening addiction to both cocaine and alcohol. I think that your life will be a wonderful worthwhile investment. Substance abuse treatment can be very effective if done correctly, but it takes patience and persistence. Make some time to get sober... you won't regret it! If you have any further questions please contact me at goodtherapysandiego.com.

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