Disease of Addiction
Addiction and the Brain
Multiple areas of the brain are involved in the neurobiology of addiction. Addiction especially impacts the neurotransmission, how parts of the brain “talk” to one another, and function of the brain’s reward system, also known as the mesolimbic dopamine pathway.
What is the Disease of Addiction?
Thomas W. Doub, PHd, CHC explains why addiction is a chronic disease, how it impacts the brain, and options for managing and treating this disease.
Effects of Addiction
The disease of addiction can impact an individual not only on a biological level but also on psychological, social, and spiritual levels.
Risk Factors for Addiction
Our Approach to Addiction Treatment
At AAC, we approach every individual as a whole person who is full of unique strengths and potential but may be facing multiple challenges.
Holistic Care
In addition to addiction treatment, we provide treatment for co-occurring mental illnesses and offer holistic care to promote physical, spiritual, social, and occupational well-being, thereby helping individuals overcome their struggles with addiction and live healthier, happier lives.
Types of Treatment
Depending on the facility, treatments available at AAC facilities may include individual psychotherapy, group therapy, medication assisted treatment (MAT), family therapy, alternative therapies, and holistic care.
Levels of Care
AAC offers several levels of care, including medical detox, residential treatment, intensive residential treatment, partial hospitalization programs, intensive outpatient programs, regular outpatient services, and sober living homes. Clients are referred to the appropriate level of care based on his or her individual needs as assessed through comprehensive evaluations at admission and throughout his or her participation in the program.
