Saskatchewan Federation of Police Officers 91 ADDICTION TREATMENT Deciding to get help for an addiction to alcohol or other drugs is a very important decision.Whether you are thinking about treatment for yourself or someone you care about, finding the right treatment is key. When is the right time to seek treatment? The choice to enter treatment is a personal one. People often seek treatment when the negative effects of drinking or drug use become stronger than the positive effects. However, treatment can be helpful even for people who think their alcohol or drug use is only a mild problem. Who can help? Medical doctors (M.D.) Addiction Medicine Specialists (M.D.) Psychiatrist (M.D.) If your healthcare professional is not trained in assessing and treating addictions, he or she can refer you to a professional who is. Don’t be afraid to ask for a referral from your doctor. • Licensed/registered psychologists and counsellors (Ph.D., Psy.D., M.A., M.Sc., MMFT) • Licensed/registered social workers B.S.W. or M.S.W.) • Licensed/registered psychotherapists or counsellors (R.C.T.) • Nurse/nurse practitioner • National Native Alcohol and Drug Abuse Program (NNADAP) workers • Other certified addiction counsellors Although they may not provide addiction treatment, other professionals, individuals and groups in your community can support you and help connect you to other resources: • Peer support groups (e.g., 12-step programs SMART Recovery, LifeRing) • Family support groups • Employee assistance programs through your employer • School guidance counsellors • Spiritual or cultural leaders Planning your treatment An addiction or healthcare provider can work with you to come up with a treatment plan.This process begins with an assessment of your alcohol or other drug use problems, and other related physical, mental and social concerns.Your care provider can help you decide on your treatment goals, explain what your treatment options are and set up the services you need to reach your goals. Treatment settings Outpatient (community): Delivered in a variety of places in the community, such as an addiction or healthcare provider’s office, a mental health clinic or an addiction clinic. Most often used by people whose alcohol or other drug use does not put them or others at serious risk, and who have safe stable homes. Outpatient treatment can sometimes involve structured treatment activities. Inpatient (hospital): Care provided at a hospital, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, involving intensive structured treatment activities. Most often used by people with alcohol or other drug problems and also medical or mental health problems who need more intensive and comprehensive supports including greater medical care and supervision. continued
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