Substance abuse, such as alcohol and drugs, usually causes significant physical and psychological dependence in people who are dealing with this issue. It is important to know that this is a situation that is unique to each person, including the context in which they grew up, their social circle and net, etc. Thus, in the case of addiction causing substance abuse, whatever the substance, it is relevant to seek the support of a social worker. We talk about this in more detail in this article!
Addiction, a complex situation
When a social worker intervenes with a person in a substance abuse and addiction situation, it is imperative that he or she show empathy and take the time to listen to his or her client.
Addiction is not something that develops in a day… It’s something that happens because of a whole range of factors. It’s something that happens because of a whole range of factors, from childhood trauma to a whole range of social, cultural, legal factors, etc.<1p>
It is important to understand that people who are in an addictive situation often have little support in their immediate environment. They may also feel isolated from those around them and from existing resources, an isolation that often stems from the substance use. In addition, there is an important parallel between mental health and overuse. People who have a fragile mental health or who have a condition are more at risk of substance abuse.
Social work intervention
In order to dissect the client’s situation and propose personalized solutions, the social worker must structure his intervention.
- Empathy and trust: especially in a situation of great vulnerability such as an addiction, it is essential to create a bond of trust with the client. To do so, it is necessary to show great empathy and to listen, without any form of judgment. The person who consults must feel that he or she is being listened to by someone who is impartial and has a good perspective on the reality of the situation.
- Analysis of the situation: the social worker must ask the necessary questions in order to understand the unique dynamics that have caused the abuse and dependency. This includes the intensity of abuse, times of use, family history, factors that trigger the desire to use, etc. All social and economic factors that impact the individual must also be considered.
- Action Plan: Based on the analysis and information gathered, a plan for dealing with the overuse can be developed. This plan may include a variety of resources, such as self-help groups, as well as the involvement of various health and social service professionals. Concrete help can then be offered.
Essential follow-up to monitor the evolution of the addiction
It is important to understand that the management of a problem of overconsumption is a gradual process that must be followed. The first step is, as mentioned above, to understand the individual’s current reality and the reasons that push him or her to seek help to get out of it.
Follow-ups are therefore necessary in order to evaluate the progress made and to support the person in their efforts. It is necessary to highlight the successes and to put in place the means to preserve the gains made by the person in terms of managing his or her addiction.
Online social work
At Clinique GO™, we have social work professionals who are ready to offer support, regardless of the reason for the consultation. Our social workers’ advice is provided via online consultation. This is a completely confidential and highly versatile modality of intervention that allows for quick and easy access to a therapist.
Approuvé par Francis Desjardins
