A lot of people think that addiction treatment cures them or their loved ones of the disease. However, it’s a chronic mental condition that requires constant management. Proof of that is the prevalence of cross addiction. When this problem develops, though, a cross addiction treatment program is available to set people back on track.

About Cross Addiction

Bearded man in hat confused about where to find cross addiction treatmentCross addiction is a problem that occurs when one addiction replaces another. The second addiction that develops usually produces effects that are similar to the first. It’s a common risk when people are in recovery from using addictive substances such as cocaine and heroin. The reason that it happens is that they mistakenly believe that the new substance won’t cause the same issues.

This reason isn’t the only one, though. Another is the chemical changes in the brain that occur because of addiction. Addictive substances trigger the release of too much dopamine, a natural chemical that produces a reward response. Because of that, the dopamine reinforces destructive behaviors, and the brain adapts.

Types of Cross Addiction

People may overcome an opioid addiction but develop alcohol addiction afterward. The alcohol has comparable effects on the body because, like opioids, it’s also a depressant. The opposite situation could occur as well. A cross addiction treatment program is essential in such cases.

However, cross addiction doesn’t always involve drug abuse. Some people who overcome a substance addiction replace it with an impulse behavior. Eating, exercising, gambling, having intercourse and shopping are examples of actions that can be addictive because they release dopamine.

The Approach to a Cross Addiction Treatment Program

A cross addiction treatment program requires specialized care and an integrated approach. Whether people have a drug addiction or other impulsive behavior, they need professional help. The primary goal is to reduce triggers for these issues. Because of that, experts aim to teach people life skills to avoid destructive behaviors and stay sober.

To that end, cross addiction treatment often uses cognitive behavioral therapy to address people’s negative thoughts, emotions and behaviors. This method identifies unconscious, flawed thoughts that cause negative feelings. It works on the theory that when people change how they think, they develop healthier emotions and behaviors.

Experts also use education during a cross addiction treatment program to reduce the risk of further addiction replacement. For instance, some people don’t understand that it’s a real risk. In turn, they might start engaging in another activity or using a different drug that creates additional problems.

Educating the families of those with cross addiction improves the effectiveness of treatment. Like with a single addiction or mental health disorder, family members become part of the support network. They can learn how to provide healthy support when they understand the condition.

Dual Diagnosis Treatment

Underlying mental health conditions can contribute to the development of addiction substitution. For that reason, cross addiction treatment may include dual diagnosis care as well.

Since the 1990s, dual diagnosis treatment has provided comprehensive care for people with addiction and other mental disorders. Before this approach, those in this situation would receive separate treatment. However, experts discovered that it’s essential to treat the dual disorders at the same time because they affect each other.

As part of a cross addiction treatment program, dual diagnosis care addresses underlying mental illnesses that contribute to addictions. The mental condition might be a mood, anxiety, personality or eating disorder.

Beaches Recovery Addresses Addiction Replacement

Have you recovered from one addiction but developed another? Seek cross addiction treatment at Beaches Recovery. We ensure that you get extensive care to avoid the development of more destructive behaviors. Our team starts with your detox at Tides Edge and then provides the proper level of rehab.

During your customized treatment, we’ll likely include behavioral health services that address the cause of your cross addiction. Our team could include dual diagnosis treatment as part of your program. In addition, we offer a range of counseling methods such as:

Put an end to the cycle of addiction replacement. Get the cross addiction treatment program that you need to keep your disease under control. Find out more about how Beaches Recovery can help by calling 866.605.0532.