Without technology, it was difficult to know where to turn for recovery. There was the struggle of finding the facility or group that was right for your needs and you had to rearrange your schedule to participate in your treatment plan. Recovery is a little less challenging with the technology now available to you. The growing use of technology like cell phones, web-based support groups, virtual reality, gene therapy and other forms of cognitive behavior therapy has changed addiction recovery. Let’s take a look at some of the options available to you:
1. Cell Phones/Tablets/Computers
According to an article in the US News, technology is being used in hospitals and treatment centers (Robert Parkinson 2016). By providing basic information through computer programs, professionals can spend more time on your individual needs. These tools give you more control and more options in your road to recovery. With app developers focusing on localizing their product, you will have tools designed with your needs in mind. Search for treatment centers and support groups that may have been too far from you before. Stay in contact with counselors and support groups from any device, whenever you need it. From tracking alcohol consumption to finding motivational messages, the help you need has never been more accessible. You have the ability to participate in video chat, text messages, and conference calls. For those of you who struggle with the cost of addiction recovery, it could be as simple as using an app on a library computer or downloading a book on your cell phone. How wonderful is it to know that you can get help with little to no expense?
2. Virtual Reality/Cognitive Behavior Therapy
According to John Weiss (2016) in an article for Psychology Today, “technology can be used to facilitate recovery from addiction”. Virtual reality, neurofeedback therapy and other forms of cognitive behavioral therapy are also available to you. Virtual reality is used to place the person in recovery into real life situations while learning to control their addiction. Neurofeedback therapy is a controversial method of treatment that uses EEG waves to train the brain. There are other forms of cognitive behavioral therapy that are more widely accepted. These methods are more expensive but are currently available to you. Research has shown that these options can be effective in addiction treatment.
3. Gene Therapy
Scientist are making progress every day to improve the way addiction is treated. Gene therapy changes certain genetic components to eliminate addiction. Gene therapy is one method of treatment that will be available to those in recovery in the future. There is technological growth that will help those in addiction recovery. Technology can change your life, so why not use it to help you, or your loved one, begin a new journey to recovery. Check out what is available and decide what works best with your lifestyle. The greatest gift you can give is the gift of recovery. If you or a loved one is still struggling with addiction seek help as soon as possible. There are several outpatient rehab centres in Idaho that are ready and willing to help you get clean.
