Open Accessibility Menu
Hide

What is Addiction?

Published in Acupuncture, Addiction Services, For the Health of It Author: Douglas Blanchard, LAc, CentraCare – Lifestyle Health

Addiction can be anything from binge watching your favorite TV shows, always having sweets in the home or something as dangerous as drugs or alcohol. Whatever it is, addiction is something that should not be taken lightly.

According to addictioncenter.com, “Whether it is a problem with alcohol, opioids, cocaine or any other substance, addiction kills thousands of Americans every year and impacts millions of lives. Addiction is a mental disorder which compels someone to repeatedly use substances or engage in behaviors even though they have harmful consequences. Addictions destroy marriages, friendships and careers and threaten a person’s basic health and safety.”

Addiction statistics

  • Almost 21 million Americans have at least one addiction, yet only 10% of them receive treatment.
  • Drug overdose deaths have more than tripled since 1990.
  • From 1999 to 2017, more than 700,000 Americans died from a drug overdose.
  • Alcohol and drug addiction cost the U.S. economy more than $600 billion every year.
  • About 20% of Americans who have depression or an anxiety disorder also have a substance use disorder.
  • Americans between the ages of 18 and 25 are most likely to use addictive drugs.

Acupuncture can help with addiction

  • Acupuncture is a time-tested, safe, effective and natural drug-free way to help battle addiction.
  • Acupuncture uses a whole-body approach to healing.
  • Carefully inserted fine sterile needles are placed on the body to help promote healing.
  • Other techniques such as (cupping, Chinese dietary therapy, qigong meditation, tai chi) are used to stimulate the body’s natural healing abilities and to bring about homeostasis.

What to expect during acupuncture

  • When done by a trained and licensed acupuncturist, most people experience little or no pain when receiving acupuncture.
  • Many people experience a deep sense of relief, relaxation and comfort during the treatment.
  • Most addiction treatments use ear acupuncture — also known as auricular therapy — with a few points on the body as well.
  • Dress in comfortable clothes, and make sure you have a light snack and drink before your treatment.
  • You are seated in a zero-gravity chair for your treatment, which will last anywhere from 25 to 30 minutes.
  • While you are resting, your acupuncturist will come and check on you about halfway through your treatment to make sure you are doing OK. Remember, our main goal is to make sure you a getting your needs met.

If you are ready to give acupuncture a try, contact CentraCare – Lifestyle Health.