Chemical Dependency

Recovering from Chemical Dependency

Chemical dependency involves both psychological and physical dependence. You may also hear chemical dependency referred to as addiction or substance abuse.

While alcohol is the most commonly abused legal drug, other addictive substances include:

• Marijuana
• Tobacco
• Prescription drugs, such as pain pills, stimulants, or anxiety pills
• Methamphetamine 
• Cocaine
• Opioids
• Anabolic steroids
• Hallucinogens
• Inhalants

Chemical dependency causes serious problems in every area of life, from work, to school, to personal relationships. Addiction results from repeated substance use.

How is Chemical Dependency Treated?

Treatment for addiction depends on each individual case. Factors that may influence your treatment path include:

• Age
• Overall health
• Severity of dependency
• How well you handle certain procedures, medicines and therapies 

People with chemical dependency cannot simply quit. Addiction results from a change in brain chemistry. Treatment is complex and may involve:

• Detoxification
• Medications that will help relieve withdrawal symptoms, lessen cravings, and restore brain function
• Behavioral therapy
• Counseling for you, as well as your family
• Long-term medical support to address any physical affects

Finding treatment for chemical dependency is not easy. At Sanford Health, we want to help you.

Sanford Health's licensed alcohol and drug counselors will guide you from addiction to recovery in a supportive environment.

You and your doctor will craft a treatment plan for you. We’ll design a path that is tailored to your individual needs that may include finding social support networks and learning coping skills. Most insurance companies cover addiction evaluation and treatment.

Find a Chemical Dependency Specialist

Our chemical dependency specialists want to help you feel like yourself again.

Find Treatment Near You

You need supportive care in a convenient location. Visit one of our treatment centers for the best possible care.