The Bio-Psycho-Social Model of Addiction Treatment
The Biopsychosocial Model of Substance Use Disorder Treatment: Understanding the Comprehensive Approach to Recovery
Substance Use Disorder (SUD)
Substance use disorder (SUD) is a complex issue that affects not only the individual struggling with addiction, but also their family, friends, and community. The traditional approach to treating SUD was focused primarily on the biological aspects, such as detoxification and medication management. However, over time, it has become clear that a more comprehensive approach is necessary to help individuals achieve long-term recovery. This approach is known as the biopsychosocial model.
Biopsychosocial Model
The biopsychosocial model recognizes that SUD is not simply a result of a lack of willpower or a moral failing, but is instead a complex interaction between biological, psychological, and social factors. The model suggests that an individual’s biology, including their genetics and brain chemistry, can make them more susceptible to developing an addiction. Psychological factors, such as mental health issues, stress, and trauma, can also play a role in the development and maintenance of a substance use disorder. Finally, social factors, such as poverty, peer pressure, and access to substances, can contribute to the onset and progression of the disorder.
To effectively treat SUD, it is important to address each of these components.
To treat the biological basis of substance use disorder this may involve medication-assisted treatment, such as the use of methadone or buprenorphine, to help manage withdrawal symptoms and reduce cravings. Treatment must also take into consideration the patient's underlying chronic medical conditions and any acute medical conditions which arise during treatment. Each patient's unique medical condition impacts their treatment plan and it takes a skilled physician to properly assess these conditions and use that assessment to inform the treatment plan.
Mental Health
Addressing the psychological aspect requires psychotherapy to address underlying mental health issues and to provide support and coping skills to help individuals navigate the challenges of recovery. At North Tampa Executive Health, we specialize in the use of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) for the treatment of addiction. CBT is a method of therapy in which the patient's underlying beliefs and thoughts surrounding addiction are examined and challenged with the goal of improving behavioral and emotional outcomes. It is distinct from other forms of therapy because the approach focuses on goal-oriented behaviors in the present, rather than dwelling on past life events and developmental concerns.
In addition, a comprehensive approach to SUD treatment must support the patient's return to normal activities of daily life, such as spending quality time with friends and family, pursuing hobbies, and participating in gainful employment or meaningful volunteering. Substance use disorder is largely characterized by isolation from normal socialization and community participation; therefore, the overarching goal of treatment is reintegration of the individual as a full participant in society. Our treatment program emphasizes continued participation in social and vocational activities during treatment and minimizes disruptions to our patients' lives by providing high quality outpatient care in the clinic and via telehealth, rather than forcing patients into inpatient treatment. We also encourage group sessions on our private Discord server, which serve as a form of group therapy.
Three Factors
The three factors of biology, psychology, and sociology are not independent and cannot be addressed in a vacuum. Addressing all three concerns for each individual patient is the core challenge of addiction medicine. The ability to treat the biological factors in addition to the psychological and social ones is a superpower that only addiction medicine physicians are able to provide.
For an example of how these factors interact, consider a patient who is feeling depressed and addicted to alcohol. Prolonged alcohol use results in changes to the brain which create depression. This depression worsens the patient's performance at work and also leads them to withdrawal from their friends and family. Their social isolation and challenges at work in turn worsen the depression. It is easy to see how a person can become stuck in an endless loop of problematic drinking leading to worse and worse depression.
Treatment can start with any area of concern. To make an analogy, we need to pull at a thread and keep doing so until the sweater unravels. Deciding which particular thread to tug at requires the skill of an addiction medicine physician. In this particular case, the first step would be to address the biological problem of alcohol dependence with medically managed withdrawal. After the patient is safely detoxified from alcohol, treatment can begin to address the psychological and social factors in turn. Each success builds on the last and an effective treatment plan becomes a self-reinforcing cycle of improved mood, improved relationships, improved performance at work, ultimately leading to recovery.
Benefit of the Biopsychosocial Model
The key benefit of the biopsychosocial model is that it recognizes the importance of treating the whole person, rather than just their substance use disorder. This approach helps individuals understand and address the root causes of their addiction, rather than just treating the symptoms. As a result, individuals are more likely to achieve lasting recovery and to maintain long-term sobriety.
In conclusion, the biopsychosocial model of substance use disorder treatment is a comprehensive approach that recognizes the complex interplay of biological, psychological, and social factors in the development and maintenance of SUD. By addressing each of these components, individuals are better equipped to achieve lasting recovery and to maintain long-term sobriety. If you or someone you love is struggling with a substance use disorder, it is important to seek help from a qualified healthcare professional who can help you develop a treatment plan that addresses your unique needs and circumstances.
If you or someone you love is suffering from problematic drug or alcohol addiction use and is seeking treatment, contact the clinic by calling or clicking the “Get Started” button in order to schedule a discovery call and initial evaluation, both of which are free.
We are here to help.
North Tampa Executive Health Clinic is directed by Dr. Jack McGeachy. He provides confidential and comfortable addiction treatments and therapy for opioid and alcohol use disorder. Rather than a rehab or detox, meaning that each patient is cared for one-on-one by a medical doctor, in contrast to other treatment programs. Heed Help? Book your in office appointment in the Tampa office or via video conferencing today.
Helping patients with addictions in Tampa Florida, Temple Terrace, Brandon, Bloomingdale, Carrollwood, Thonotosassa, Town N Country, Lutz, Wesley Chapel, Land O Lakes, St. Pete, Clearwater, Oldsmar, Westchase, Palm Harbor, Tarpon Springs and surrounding areas.
