Genesis House Commits to Breaking the Cycle of Addiction With Innovative Treatment Programs

Unfortunately, stigmas and misunderstandings are still associated with alcohol addiction. A lack of clear understanding about what alcoholism is and isn’t may be partly responsible for the large numbers of people living with alcohol use disorder in the U.S. 

The National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism estimates that nearly 15 million people in the United States are struggling with alcohol addiction. 

Genesis House announces its commitment to breaking the cycle of alcohol addiction and getting individuals the treatment and support they need to live happy, healthy lives. A crucial step in changing the lives of individuals with alcohol use disorder is dispelling some of the myths related to addiction. 

Alcoholism is not a moral weakness or lack of personal control. Alcohol addiction is a chronic disorder that affects both mental and physical health. Like other chronic conditions, it is considered to be a relapsing condition. The rate of relapse for drinking disorders is approximately the same as relapse for hypertension. 

There are three basic stages in the addiction cycle. During the binge/intoxication stage, the person experiences the rewarding effects of alcohol. They may feel relaxed or euphoric. 

During the second stage, the negative affect/withdrawal stage, the person goes through early withdrawal symptoms and may feel sick or have emotional pain. The third stage, which is called the preoccupation/anticipation stage, is filled with a preoccupation about alcohol, cravings, and impulsive behavior. 

Treatment programs at Genesis House are designed to disrupt the cycle. A combination of therapies, including relapse prevention and ongoing support, empowers the individual to make lasting changes. 

Like the cycle of addiction, treatment happens in three stages. The first stage could best be described as empathetic listening. When people first enter treatment, they are typically still resistant to getting help. In many cases, they still doubt that they have a problem. 

Genesis House provides medically supervised detox services to help keep clients safe and assist them in feeling better as soon as possible. A combination of medical and mental health care and unconditional support prepares clients to be more receptive to the next stage of addiction treatment. 

The second stage of treatment involves a variety of therapies. Genesis House creates an individualized treatment program for each client that may include cognitive-behavioral therapy, dialectical therapy, family therapy, 12-Step programs, life skills training, and more. 

With the guidance of experienced therapists, clients may explore the roots of their addictive behaviors as well as learn new ways of thinking and behaving that will support a healthy lifestyle.

During group and individual therapy, they have an opportunity to practice new communication and interpersonal skills with others who understand what they are going through. Family therapy provides a safe place for every member of the family to share their experiences and learn how to interact with one another in new, healthier ways. 

Relapse prevention education also happens during the second stage of treatment. The Genesis House relapse prevention program helps clients recognize the early warning signs of relapse so that they can apply the new skills they’ve learned and meet their health goals. 

Aftercare is the third stage of addiction treatment. Genesis House offers sober living programs and an alumni program. It also maintains an open-door policy for all clients who have received treatment at Genesis House and are concerned about relapsing. The combination of these aftercare services helps clients transition more smoothly from the close supervision of a residential program back into independent living. 

Providing clients with a full continuum of care, from detox to aftercare and beyond, offers the most benefits. Treatment programs may be finite, with 30, 60, or 90 days being typical for residential programs. However, recovery from alcohol addiction has no expiration date. Making sure clients have access to ongoing support long after the formal treatment program is over is vital.

Understanding that clients may relapse is another way in which Genesis House is breaking the cycle of addiction. Relapse in addiction is not a failure of the individual any more than relapse in high blood pressure is a personal failure. In both cases, it is a sign that treatment needs adjustment. The alumni support group and open door policy at Genesis House let those in need know they are cared for and recovery is still possible.