Psychoeducation for Addiction and Mental Health

When we think of treatment for addiction and mental health, individual or group counseling is often the first thing that comes to mind. Many people imagine a person sitting on a couch, talking about their concerns, while a therapist sits behind them and takes notes. In reality, there are many different types of treatment and therapy, and each one may utilize a wide variety of settings and approaches. 

Psychoeducation is a treatment approach that is especially helpful for Veterans, who often struggle with traumatic experiences they endure throughout their careers. This overview covers how psychoeducation works, what it’s used for and how it helps our clients at The Recovery Village Columbus. 

Did you know most insurance companies will cover the cost of treatment for drug and alcohol addiction? Check Your Benefits Online Now.

What Is Psychoeducation? 

Psychoeducation refers to a treatment method in which therapists systematically educate clients and their families about a mental health disorder and how it is treated. It is meant to teach clients and family members how to understand the illness and take responsibility for managing it. Psychoeducation can also help people learn strategies for coping with a mental health condition. 

The history of psychoeducation goes back to the 1980s, when researchers described it as a therapeutic tool that involved:

• Giving people a short summary of what to expect with their mental health condition
• Providing them with training on problem-solving
• Teaching them about communication
• Training them on assertiveness

Studies have found that psychoeducation is effective, and it has been used to treat the following conditions:

• Substance use disorder (addiction)
• Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)
• Schizophrenia 
• Bipolar disorder
• Major depression 
• Obsessive compulsive disorder
• Borderline personality disorder

Psychoeducation for PTSD

A recent study found that psychoeducation programs can reduce post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) symptoms. For Veterans living with PTSD, a psychoeducation program can help them: 

• Better understand PTSD
• Learn about symptoms of PTSD
• Identify ways for managing PTSD symptoms and coping with triggers 

In psychoeducation groups, Veterans with PTSD may learn relaxation techniques so that the symptoms become more manageable. They can also learn problem-solving skills that help manage PTSD and prevent it from interfering with functioning at work or at home. In some cases, psychoeducation groups can reduce PTSD symptoms so significantly that a Veteran may no longer meet diagnostic criteria for PTSD. 

Psychoeducation for Alcohol Abuse and Drug Addiction

People who do not receive adequate PTSD treatment may abuse drugs or alcohol as a way to cope with symptoms. Since psychoeducational programs are effective for treating PTSD, they can also benefit Veterans who are also struggling with substance abuse.

Research has already shown that psychoeducation is effective for addiction. In psychoeducation treatment, Veterans learn about the nature of addiction and identify triggers that might increase the risk of relapse. They also learn healthy skills for coping with stress and managing PTSD symptoms so they do not have to turn to drugs or alcohol. 

Veteran Recovery Is Our Mission

Our Veteran Advocates can help you navigate your VA health insurance and get you the help you need. At The Recovery Village Columbus, our FORTITUDE specialty track for veterans and first responders offers:

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• Exclusive group therapy sessions with your peers
• Experienced clinicians trained in military culture and veteran-specific care
• Dual diagnosis to treat addiction and mental health disorders together  
• EMDR: A revolutionary treatment that alleviates trauma symptoms

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Psychoeducation for Veterans

If you or a loved one is a Veteran who struggles with co-occurring PTSD and addiction, the FORTITUDE program can help. The program offers specialized substance abuse and mental health treatment for law enforcement officers, fire service members, corrections officers, paramedics, emergency room staff and other Veterans.

FORTITUDE is a specialty track for Veterans at The Recovery Village Columbus, a professional rehab facility that offers comprehensive addiction and mental health services. Our full continuum of care includes detox, inpatient treatment, partial hospitalization services, intensive outpatient treatment and long-term aftercare. We can also invite relatives for family sessions so they can support their loved one throughout their recovery.

The FORTITUDE program uses evidence-based treatment approaches, including psychoeducation and life skills groups, so you can learn how to manage symptoms and reduce the negative impact they have on daily functioning. We also offer specific therapies, including EMDR and cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), which can be effective for addressing trauma. Contact us to learn more about the FORTITUDE program at The Recovery Village Columbus, and get started on the path to a healthier, substance-free life.