Telehealth and its Role in Addiction Treatment: You Have Options

There’s no question about it; the times in which we’re living right now are scary. The uncertainty that plagues our minds is unlike any we’ve ever experienced. This can make life very difficult and cause people to make decisions they never thought they’d have to make. This uncertainty is also causing quite a stir on the addiction treatment scene. Many individuals who suffer from substance abuse are currently wondering how or even if they can get the help they need.

With social distancing and stay-home orders on the rise, panic is seemingly inevitable. But, if you are struggling with alcoholism or drug misuse, do not be alarmed. Here at Discovery Institute, we want you to know that you have options. Through telehealth and other resources, you can find your way to a life that is free from addiction, even in the middle of a global pandemic.

What is Telehealth?

Telehealth is a method of healthcare that incorporates various technologies in order to help those in need. Some of the components of telehealth include the following:

Telehealth services are beneficial for those who may be unable to physically attend treatment. Those who are uncomfortable with getting treatment services can also benefit from this method of care.

Understanding the Role of Telehealth in Terms of Addiction Treatment and Mental Health

When it comes to treating addiction and mental health disorders, telehealth can offer people the help they need. Undoubtedly, this option will be helpful for those who are trying to end substance use disorders (SUDs) during the COVID-19 pandemic that is currently affecting our world.

According to a 2018 article by the National Center for Biotechnology Information (NCBI), telehealth approaches can effectively address the needs of those who are suffering from addiction. The article states that “telemedicine applications offer innovative approaches for treating and reducing the effects of substance use disorders”.

However, despite the fact that these approaches have proven to be helpful, they are tremendously underused. Telehealth and telemedicine approaches can assist people who are struggling with substance misuse, giving them the tools they need in a way that’s most efficient and accessible for them.

So, individuals who are currently working to end addiction in their lives have various treatment options. Through telehealth practices, these treatment options are quite literally at the fingertips of those in need of help.

Using Mobile Applications for Substance Use Treatment

Applications that are compatible with smartphones and other mobile devices (i.e., iPads, tablets, and so forth) can work to help individuals who are in recovery from addiction. The goals and purposes of specific apps will vary. So, those in recovery can likely find an app that addresses their needs, regardless of the phase of recovery they are in.

Some apps are designed to encourage accountability during recovery. Others are designed to pair individuals with other individuals and support groups in order to establish companionship and support throughout the recovery journey. Other options for individuals in recovery may also include applications that work to help people uncover and address the underlying causes of their addictions.

Text Messaging for SUD Treatment

Texting has long been a reliable way to communicate with others. Not only is it reliable, but it also provides people with the ability to speak with one another quickly. This can certainly come in handy for individuals who need access to therapeutic or medical professional help. Text messaging in regards to addiction treatment services can certainly be an effective method.

There are even reports of text messaging interventions being effective. Also, individuals can receive text messages to remind them of upcoming treatment appointments and therapy sessions. This can help people to remain organized and offer a sense of order despite the chaos they may be experiencing in everyday life, especially in the face of the pandemic we are currently experiencing.

The Benefits of Video Conferencing Addiction Services

Possibly one of the most preferable telehealth services, video conferencing, offers many benefits. People who are attempting to become or remain free from addiction can connect with therapists and professionals in the addiction industry via video chats.

Often in the world of recovery, people find that speaking with a professional face-to-face is extremely helpful and important. This kind of communication is often crucial and necessary while on the road to recovery. However, this option is not always possible, especially in times like these.

While addiction recovery facilities are essential and continue to remain open for treatment, many people are either unable to, or uncomfortable with attending these centers. But, they still need access to professionals who can assist them as they work toward recovery.

Thankfully, video conferencing can help to make this possible. Although individuals are not able to physically speak one-on-one with a therapist through this telehealth method, they can still gain quite a bit from simply joining an online video meeting. This is both convenient and effective.

Other Telephone-Based Communication Services for Addiction Recovery

Many times, people who are suffering from addiction or trying to work through recovery simply need to speak with someone. They need to talk to a professional about their struggles and get sound advice and guidance as they navigate through the challenges of this journey. Telephone-based communication services can help people in these situations.

Having both the ability and resources necessary to quickly get in touch with medical personnel and therapists can be extremely helpful. Fortunately, this is made possible through telephone-based counseling and addiction treatment services.