Drug Rehabilitation Programs for First Responders in Texas

 

 

Drug rehabilitation programs in Texas for first responders provide specific counseling and rehabilitation methods tailored to the needs of first responders. These are individuals that are often on the scene first and the last ones to heal, and many of them do not get the help they need. Whether it is a police office, firefighter, EMT, or paramedic, drug addiction is a real problem. Many of the issues begin with prescription drug abuse because of prescriptions that have been misused or taken too long. Balancing a career as a first responder can be difficult, and unfortunately, many turn to drugs as a way of coping. PTSD is a common issue that many first responders struggle with, and drug rehab programs in Texas for first responders should provide adequate counseling and therapy for this issue.

Overall, the general drug rehabilitation process for first responders is no different than other drug rehab centers in Texas. The difference is the methodology and approaches used to treat addiction. The first step is a drug detox to treat withdrawal symptoms and cravings. Typically, the extent of addiction and severity of withdrawal symptoms determine what type of drug detox is needed. Medically supervised detox programs manage severe addiction involving prescription drugs, while standard detox treats less severe drug addiction. The next phase of drug rehabilitation involves attending a residential or outpatient drug rehab program for first responders. Finally, it is important to follow through with aftercare support or a recovery support program. Common aftercare includes 12-step meetings, peer support groups, and sober living homes.

 

Drug Addiction Detox and Residential or Outpatient Rehab for First Responders in Texas

Drug addiction detox, residential drug rehab, and outpatient drug rehab centers in Texas for first responders offer extensive counseling and therapy services. Many first responders in Texas that are struggling with drug addiction deal with PTSD. The common symptoms of PTSD include intrusive memories, avoidance, negative changes in thinking and mood, and changes in physical and emotional reactions. Whether a person is addicted to street drugs or prescription drugs, there are underlying reasons why they became addicted. The causative factors to their addiction must be adequately treated. The signs of drug addiction include health problems, changes in appearance, neglect of personal hygiene, drug paraphernalia, memory loss, and financial problems.

Drug addiction also causes a person to withdraw from social activities and causes behavioral changes and poor work performance. The first step to help a first responder in Texas is drug detox. The severity of withdrawal depends on the type of drug used and other factors. Following drug detox, the next step with treatment involves attending a residential or outpatient drug rehab program in Texas. Drug rehab programs for first responders are specific in their methods to treat addiction. The counseling, support, and therapy are tailored to the needs of first responders. Common counseling methods include behavioral therapies like cognitive behavioral therapy. Many drug rehab programs incorporate holistic treatment, and some are even faith-based programs. Well-rounded drug rehab for first responders should treat the mind, body, and spirit.   

 

Drug Addiction Family Intervention in Texas

It is difficult to watch someone with a drug addiction not get the help they need or refuse help when offered. First responders will often not open up about their drug addiction despite those around them noticing the changes. Family intervention in Texas for first responders helps motivate a drug addict to seek help for their drug addiction. People with drug addiction are often in denial about their situation and unwilling to seek treatment. Moreover, they may not recognize the negative effects of their behavior and how it impacts them and their family. Family intervention with the help of a professional interventionist presents the addict with a structured opportunity to make changes before their drug addiction becomes worse.

Family intervention for first responders is a carefully planned process that is done with family, friends, coworkers, and a certified interventionist.  During a family intervention, these individuals gather together to confront the addict about the consequences of their addiction and ask them to accept treatment. The intervention process involves providing specific examples of destructive behavior and its impact on the addict and their family. Also, a family intervention offers prearranged treatment plans with clear steps, goals, and guidelines. With the help of a certified interventionist, every person has a role and knows what to say if their loved one refuses to accept help. Successful intervention for a first responder must be carefully planned to work as intended. However, a poorly planned intervention worsens the situation and causes the addict to feel attacked.

 

How to Locate and be Admitted to a Drug Rehab Program for First Responders in Texas

When searching for and being admitted to drug rehab programs in Texas for first responders, there are different options to consider. Initially, police forces, fire departments, and paramedics have internal resources for their members. These are usually counseling programs or even rehabilitation options. If available, it is important to reach out within and find out what support is accessible. Other options include private health insurance and an employee assistance program. Most private health insurance plans cover some parts of drug rehab. However, the extent of coverage depends on the health insurance plan type.

First responders can also access addiction assessments to receive an evaluation and be recommended drug rehab program options. An assessment could be done internally with a qualified professional or with an external agency that refers individuals to drug rehab programs. Finally, if the family is working with a professional interventionist, they would have referred the addict to a suitable drug rehab program in Texas.

 

Drug Addiction and Substance Abuse Trends in Texas

Many first responders in Texas struggle with drug addiction and underlying issues. According to SAMSHA, the nature of the work of firefighters, including repeated exposure to painful and provocative experiences and erratic sleep schedules, can pose a significant risk to their mental health. Studies have found that career firefighters reported higher levels of problematic alcohol use and PTSD as compared to the volunteer firefighters. For example, binge drinking or heavy drinking was reported among 50% of male firefighters.

 

Sources-

SAMHSA. Disaster Technical Assistance Center Supplemental Research Bulletin. First Responders: Behavioral Health Concerns, Emergency Responses, and Trauma. May 2018. https://www.samhsa.gov/sites/default/files/dtac/supplementalresearchbulletin-firstresponders-may2018.pdf