Polysubstance Addiction
Treatment
Polysubstance addiction—the simultaneous or alternating use of two or more substances—presents unique challenges that require specialized care. At Refine Recovery, located in the tranquil hills of Beverly Hills, California, we provide a safe and supportive environment to help individuals overcome the complexities of addiction. We empower our clients to achieve lasting recovery using evidence-based practices, compassionate care, and holistic therapies.
In Los Angeles County, substance misuse is a significant public health concern, with nearly 139,810 hospitalizations annually attributed to alcohol and drug-related conditions. This staggering figure underscores the critical need for comprehensive treatment programs tailored to the complexities of addiction. At Refine Recovery, we are dedicated to addressing these challenges through a personalized and compassionate approach.
What is Polysubstance Addiction?
Polysubstance addiction refers to the use of two or more substances concurrently or in alternation, resulting in physical dependence, psychological reliance, or both. Unlike single-substance addiction, this condition involves a combination of drugs or alcohol that may be used to amplify effects, manage withdrawal symptoms, or counterbalance the effects of other substances.
For instance, individuals might use stimulants like cocaine to offset the sedative effects of alcohol or opioids or combine alcohol with prescription medications to enhance euphoria. Such behaviors often stem from an individual’s attempt to achieve a more intense high, manage stress, or self-medicate underlying mental health issues.
Dangers of Polysubstance Addiction
The interaction of multiple substances in the body often results in unpredictable and severe consequences, including:
Increased Risk of Overdose
One of the most critical dangers of polysubstance addiction is the heightened risk of overdose. Certain drug combinations, such as opioids and benzodiazepines, suppress the central nervous system. This dual effect increases the likelihood of respiratory failure and can quickly become fatal. In fact, nearly 14% of overdose deaths involving opioids in 2021 also involved benzodiazepines, highlighting the deadly consequences of such combinations. Additionally, the interaction of multiple substances can mask symptoms of overdose, delaying critical medical intervention and further complicating recovery efforts.
Severe Health Complications
Chronic use of multiple substances places immense strain on the body, leading to severe health complications. Long-term polysubstance addiction can result in liver damage, cardiovascular issues, seizures, and cognitive impairments. These conditions often worsen over time and may become life-threatening without immediate and effective treatment.
Mental Health Challenges
Polysubstance addiction frequently coexists with mental health disorders such as anxiety, depression, and PTSD, often falling under the category of dual diagnosis. The interaction between addiction and mental health conditions creates a vicious cycle, with substance misuse exacerbating psychological symptoms and vice versa. This dual impact makes recovery more challenging, necessitating integrated care that simultaneously addresses both addiction and mental health.
Unpredictable Drug Interactions
Combining substances can produce unpredictable effects in the body. These interactions may lead to the formation of new metabolites, which can heighten toxicity and cause unique side effects. Because the effects of drug combinations are often unforeseen, individuals are at greater risk of adverse reactions, including organ damage, severe illness, and increased mortality.
Our Approach to Polysubstance Addiction Treatment
At Refine Recovery, we understand that polysubstance addiction requires a multifaceted approach. Every individual’s journey is unique, and our programs are designed to address recovery’s physical, mental, and emotional aspects.
Comprehensive Assessment
Our process begins with a thorough medical and psychological assessment. Our clinical team uses advanced diagnostic tools and personalized interviews to identify the substances involved, evaluate their impact on the individual, and pinpoint any underlying mental health conditions.
Medically Managed Detox
Detoxification is often the first step in addressing polysubstance addiction. Withdrawal symptoms can be more intense and unpredictable when multiple substances are involved, making medical supervision crucial. Our detox program provides 24/7 monitoring by experienced medical staff, ensuring safety and comfort during this critical phase.
- Symptom Management: We utilize evidence-based medications to alleviate withdrawal symptoms.
- Tailored Care: Each detox plan is customized based on the substances involved and the individual’s medical history.
Residential Inpatient Treatment
Following detox, clients transition into our residential inpatient program, where the real work of recovery begins. Clients are immersed in a supportive, structured environment that fosters healing and personal growth.
- Evidence-Based Therapies: Modalities such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), and trauma-focused therapy help clients understand and change destructive thought patterns.
- Holistic Practices: We incorporate experiential therapies, including yoga, Muay Thai, art, and music, to address the mind-body connection and promote overall wellness.
- Dual Diagnosis Support: Many clients struggling with polysubstance addiction also face co-occurring mental health disorders. Our integrated approach ensures that both conditions are treated simultaneously, improving long-term outcomes.
The therapeutic alliance between staff and clients is central to our philosophy at Refine Recovery. Our team employs motivational interviewing and peer-to-peer interactions to help clients uncover the root causes of their addiction and develop healthier coping mechanisms.
Why Choose Refine Recovery for Polysubstance Addiction Treatment?
A Culture of Compassion
Refine Recovery was born from a vision to provide treatment that prioritizes compassion and individualized care. Our owner-operated facility ensures that every staff member shares our commitment to delivering patient-centered, empathetic care.
Luxury Amenities
Nestled in the serene canyons of Beverly Hills, our facility offers a tranquil, therapeutic environment where clients can focus on their recovery. Amenities include:
- Private and semi-private rooms with ensuite bathrooms.
- An on-site pool for relaxation and stress reduction.
- Gourmet meals are prepared by a private chef who accommodates dietary needs.
- Access to outdoor lounge areas and serene gardens.
Tailored Aftercare Planning
Recovery doesn’t end when treatment concludes. Our team collaborates with clients to create a comprehensive aftercare plan that includes:
- Continued Therapy: Connections to trusted therapists in our network.
- Support Groups: Guidance on finding local recovery communities and alumni programs.
- Life Skills Coaching: Case management services to assist with employment, legal issues, and family dynamics.
Who Can Benefit from Polysubstance Addiction Treatment?
Polysubstance addiction treatment at Refine Recovery is designed for individuals navigating the challenges of using multiple substances, such as alcohol, opioids, and stimulants. It is particularly beneficial for those who experience withdrawal symptoms when abstaining from one or more substances or who struggle with co-occurring mental health disorders like depression or anxiety. This specialized treatment is also ideal for individuals who have faced previous treatment failures due to the complexity of their addiction. Suppose you or a loved one identify with these challenges. In that case, we encourage you to explore our What We Treat section for more information on our specialized programs, including methamphetamine addiction treatment.
Clinically Reviewed By:
Dr. Marisa Sisk
Dr. Marisa A. Sisk, , M.S., Psy.D., is the Chief Clinical Officer and founder of Refine Recovery, where she created its clinical curriculum. With advanced degrees in Clinical Psychology and Marriage and Family Therapy, she has extensive experience in behavioral health. Dr. Sisk also founded First Commercial Billing Company and has held leadership roles in residential treatment facilities, specializing in program development and patient advocacy.
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