Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) is a form of psychotherapy that has been proven effective in treating substance abuse disorders as well as a variety of mental health issues. It focuses on reframing and changing negative thought patterns, helping patients set goals, and building positive coping skills.
Read on to understand what cognitive behavioral therapy is, how it works, and the benefits of CBT for individuals recovering from substance abuse.
What is Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)?
Cognitive behavioral therapy was developed in the 1960s by psychiatrist Aaron Beck.
It is an evidence-based therapy that is used for treating substance abuse and a range of mental health disorders, such as depression, anxiety, and bipolar disorder.[1].
CBT focuses on how one’s thoughts influence one’s mood and behaviors. It addresses cognitive issues such as dysfunctional automatic thoughts, maladaptive thinking patterns, and cognitive distortions. Most CBT therapists customize therapy sessions to the specific needs of each patient [1].
The goal of CBT is to address these negative thought patterns and dysfunctional behaviors to create positive change in one’s life. Although CBT is often discussed for its benefits in treating mental health disorders, it is an effective approach for helping individuals recover from substance abuse.
How Does CBT Work?
Patients work with a licensed CBT therapist to regain control over their thoughts and gain self-awareness of how their cognition influences their mood and behavior. They collaborate to develop positive coping strategies, set treatment goals, problem-solve, and ultimately change the patient’s behavior.
Some people may notice improvement in their symptoms after just a few CBT sessions, while others may require several months of treatment. This often depends on the issue being treated, how severe one’s diagnosis is, and if the person has support in the home to implement the skills they learn during their treatment sessions.
The fundamental principles of CBT include [1]:
- Substance abuse and mental health disorders are based on inaccurate ways of thinking.
- Substance abuse and mental health disorders are also based on learned patterns of behavior.
- Individuals suffering from substance abuse disorders can learn more positive ways to cope and reduce their symptoms.
- CBT focuses on problem-solving, setting short and long-term goals.
- Individuals are encouraged to actively participate throughout their session.
Is CBT Used in Addiction Treatment?
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy is a common treatment approach used in substance abuse recovery. It is used during residential treatment programs, as well as on an outpatient basis, to support long-term recovery.
Current research shows that CBT is effective for treating substance abuse on its own or combined with other treatments, such as medication or group therapy. One study found that users with cocaine disorder had a 60% success recovery rate after several months of just CBT [2].
5 Benefits of CBT For Addiction Recovery
There are several benefits that CBT can provide for individuals in addiction recovery.
Restructure Thought Patterns
People who struggle with chronic negative thoughts may abuse drugs or alcohol to cope with mental distress. The primary focus of CBT is on changing maladaptive patterns of thinking and challenging cognitive distortions.
Some common cognitive distortions that CBT challenges include [3]:
- Catastrophizing: Seeing only the worst possible outcomes of a situation.
- Black or white thinking: When one thinks in absolutes such as “always,” “never,” or “every.” For example, if someone does poorly on a work project, they may think, “I never do a good job.”
- Jumping to conclusions: Interpreting the meaning of a situation with little to no evidence.
- Emotional reasoning: Assuming one’s emotions reflect the reality of a situation (e.g., “I feel like a bad parent, therefore I am a bad parent”)
Build Positive Coping Skills
CBT equips patients with healthy coping strategies to manage stress, symptoms of mental health disorders, and reduce cravings for drugs or alcohol. Common coping skills that one may learn during CBT include:
- Deep breathing: This technique can help relax the nervous system, manage stress and anxiety.
- Progressive muscle relaxation: This involves tensing and relaxing various muscles in the body. This can help make it easier to physically and mentally relax and may ease uncomfortable symptoms during withdrawal from substance abuse.
- Behavioral activation: This means getting more involved in healthy or positive activities you find pleasurable or enjoyable. Ideas could include cooking, art projects, dancing, making music, or spending time outside.
Increased Self-Awareness
Self-monitoring is a skill taught in CBT therapy and teaches individuals to be mindful of their thoughts and feelings. This can be done through journaling or mood tracking and helps build greater self-awareness.
Identify Triggers
By building self-awareness, individuals will learn what triggers their substance abuse. By understanding what situations, emotions, people, or environments trigger drug or alcohol use, it will be easier to develop tailored coping strategies to manage those triggers or avoid them altogether.
Repair Relationships
Addiction can cause deep strains in relationships with family, friends, and even co-workers. CBT can help individuals improve their communication skills, take accountability, and learn how to manage conflict. These can help build stronger relationships with loved ones and make amends with those who their addiction impacted negatively.
Residential Treatment for Substance Abuse in Michigan
Rushton Recovery understands the complex nature of drug & alcohol recovery. We prioritize your well-being, safety, and comfort during treatment. Our detox and residential treatment center in Michigan offers a healing space to embark on your journey toward sobriety.
We offer evidence-based therapies designed to evolve with your individual needs and address the root of your substance abuse. Let our team help you heal, repair relationships, and equip you with the skills to achieve long-term recovery. Reach out to our Admissions team now.
Sources
[1] Cognitive Behavior Therapy. 2023. National Library of Medicine.
[2] Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy for Substance Use Disorders. 2011. National Library of Medicine.
[3] Cognitive Distortions Worksheet. 2023. Therapist Aid.
