Intensive Rehabilitation Program for Alcoholics at Nyírő Gyula Hospital
A behavioral addiction, such as gambling and alcohol addiction, poses serious social problems that complicate the lives of many families. The desire to seek solutions and the hope for recovery motivate many to seek professional help. The programs available at the Nyírő Gyula Hospital’s OPAI Addictionology Department offer a complex approach for those affected, taking into account the biological, psychological, and social dimensions of the problems, as well as the role of spirituality.
The treatment of behavioral addictions aims not only to change pathological habits but also to support emotional and spiritual development. Within these programs, participants confront their personal challenges and learn new methods for stress management, tension relief, and strengthening social connections. The treatment process focuses not only on addressing the illness but also on improving the quality of life.
The goal of the program is for patients to remain permanently free from behavioral addictions, thereby achieving a happier and healthier life.
Approach to Addiction and Treatment
Behavioral addictions, such as gambling and alcohol addiction, appear as chronic conditions from which anyone can recover if they have the right willingness and support. Modern medical approaches, such as the bio-psycho-socio-spiritual model, consider the individual as a whole, including biological, psychological, and social factors, as well as the impact of spirituality.
Spirituality does not only represent a religious aspect but also a type of value system that can aid in an individual’s development. Altruism, responsibility, and the search for meaning can all contribute to the healing process. According to new approaches, worldview, faith, and social connections all play important roles in the success of treatment.
The DSM-5, the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, no longer defines gambling addiction merely as a pathological habit but categorizes it as an addiction, thus emphasizing the complexity of treatment and the seriousness of addictions.
The Eight-Week Therapeutic Program
The eight-week therapeutic program available at the Nyírő Gyula Hospital offers an intensive and structured approach for individuals with addictions. The aim of the program is to achieve and maintain abstinence from gambling and alcohol, as well as to prevent relapse. During the first two weeks, patients are isolated from the distracting stimuli of the outside world and focus on themselves while participating in various group therapy sessions.
In group therapy, patients not only learn about their illness but also emphasize their emotional development. With the help of therapists and assistants, participants recognize and manage their emotions while learning new tension-relief methods. Starting from the third week, participants begin attending anonymous self-help groups, which provide further support during the recovery process.
Collaboration between professionals and patients is crucial throughout the program. During therapy, doctors, psychologists, and addiction consultants assist patients, while nurses also actively participate in group activities.
The Role of the Minnesota Model in Treatment
The Minnesota Model is one of the most well-known and effective approaches to treating behavioral addictions. This model was developed in the 1950s and has since been adopted by numerous institutions for the treatment of chemical dependencies and pathological gambling. The core principle of the model is that patients must accept their addiction as a disease and achieve complete abstinence for recovery.
Key elements of the Minnesota Model program include group therapy, where patients learn new ways of thinking and acting. The aim of presentations by professionals is to raise awareness of the illness, while the experiences of recovering addicts are also integrated into the program to help participants better understand their problems.
Family counseling is also part of the program, helping relatives of patients understand the effects of addiction and how to manage the situation effectively. Learning the 12-step program of Alcoholics Anonymous is also an important aspect of recovery, which is based on community support and sharing experiences.
Support for Relatives and the Application Process for the Program
The Nyírő Gyula Hospital OPAI offers help not only for those with addictions but also for their relatives. The aim of self-help groups is to help family members understand how to manage the behavior of the addicted individual and how to support them during recovery. During group sessions, participants share experiences and collaboratively seek solutions to problems.
The condition for applying to the program is that the applicant wishes to change on their own and expresses their commitment to change. The first step is an assessment interview, where professionals evaluate the applicant’s condition and motivation. Throughout the treatment cycle, patients encounter various stages of supportive interventions tailored to assist them in their recovery.
Collaboration between patients and their relatives is crucial for successful rehabilitation. Treatments conducted within the framework of the Minnesota Model provide long-term support, helping patients achieve their goals and return to a healthy lifestyle.
