Britannica
Sources used in this answer
How can cognitive behavioral therapy support recovery from substance use disorder?
Created from Britannica articles
using AI.
AI can make mistakes, so verify using Britannica articles.
drug use
The use of psychoactive drugs, such as pain medications or illegal substances, often results in emotional, physical, and social harm.
Cognitive behavior therapy (CBT) supports recovery from substance use disorder by helping individuals identify and modify inaccurate or destructive patterns of thinking that influence their emotions and behaviors.12
Rather than focusing on the origins of the addiction, CBT provides practical strategies to help individuals manage stress and respond more effectively to life's challenges. The process typically involves:1
- Skill Building: Therapists teach specific techniques to replace negative thought patterns with more helpful ones.12
- Collaboration: Sessions often involve setting agendas and applying these strategies to real-world problems.3
- Practice: Homework is frequently assigned to encourage the daily application of these new coping mechanisms.3
- Flexibility: Treatment can be conducted individually or in groups and may be used alongside other therapies or medications.1345
By fostering these cognitive and behavioral changes, CBT empowers individuals to manage their recovery and reduce the likelihood of relapse.135