Glossary Terms

Jump to: A | B | C | D | E | F | G | H | I | L | M | N | O | P | R | S | T | V | W

A

Abstinence

The deliberate choice to stop using or completely avoid all mind- or body-altering substances.

Aftercare

Ongoing support services after completing treatment to reduce relapse risk.

Al-Anon / Alateen

Support groups for families affected by alcoholism.

Alcoholics Anonymous (AA)

A worldwide fellowship supporting sobriety through a 12-step program.

Alcoholism

A chronic disease characterized by inability to control alcohol use.

B

Biofeedback Therapy

A technique that helps control body functions like heart rate using real-time feedback.

Buprenorphine

A medication used to treat opioid addiction by reducing cravings and withdrawal.

C

Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)

A therapy that helps change negative thinking and behaviors.

Case Management

A coordinated approach helping patients access treatment and resources.

Co-Dependency

A pattern where someone focuses excessively on another person’s addiction.

D

Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT)

A therapy focused on emotional regulation and coping skills.

Dual Diagnosis

The presence of both addiction and mental health disorders.

E

Evidence-Based Treatment

Treatment methods proven effective through scientific research.

F

Family Therapy

Therapy that involves family members to improve recovery outcomes.

G

Group Therapy

Therapy sessions involving multiple people sharing experiences.

H

Hallucinogen

Substances that alter perception and thinking.

I

Inpatient Rehab

A 24-hour residential treatment program.

M

Medication-Assisted Treatment (MAT)

Treatment combining medications with therapy.

Methadone

A medication used to treat opioid addiction.

N

Naloxone

A medication that reverses opioid overdoses.

O

Opioid Use Disorder (OUD)

A chronic condition involving opioid misuse.

P

Pharmacotherapy

Using medication to treat addiction.

R

Recovery

An ongoing process of improving health and lifestyle.

Relapse

Returning to substance use after a period of abstinence.

S

SAMHSA

Federal agency addressing substance use and mental health.

Sober Living

Drug-free housing supporting recovery.

T

Telehealth

Healthcare services provided remotely.

V

Vivitrol

A monthly injection used to treat addiction.

W

Wrap-Around Services

Support services like housing and transportation for recovery.

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