Rational Emotive Behavior Therapy has its genesis in 1955 and is a part of cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT). The focus of this type of therapy is to eradicate negative thoughts that result from groundless notions and intends to help a person manage them in a logical and rational way. This therapy is based on the belief that irrational feelings and beliefs can meddle with a person’s normal way of functioning. Rational Emotive Therapy (REBT) has been shown to be effective in the treatment of substance abuse as well.
Role of Rational Emotive Behavior Therapy in Substance Abuse
Since REBT is based on the idea that our thoughts, feelings, and behaviors are all interconnected and that by changing our thoughts, we can change our feelings and behaviors, it can be quite effective in improving a person’s behavior towards addiction. Here’s how REBT can be used to treat substance abuse:
Reaching the root causes
REBT focuses on helping individuals identify and challenge irrational beliefs and replace them with rational ones. These irrational beliefs are often the root cause of substance abuse and can include beliefs such as “I can’t cope without drugs/alcohol” or “I need drugs/alcohol to have fun.” By challenging these beliefs, individuals can learn to develop healthier coping mechanisms and reduce their reliance on substances.
Understanding triggers
There are certain emotional triggers such as shame and guilt that arise as a result of SUD and lead to worsened condition. The creator of this theory believed that as long as a person holds onto these beliefs and stigma, there is no escape from substance abuse. Therefore, giving up on these feelings is one of the important parts of addiction recovery. REBT intends to rationalize these issues to resolve notions that lead to these triggers and thus SUD.
Challenging irrational beliefs
One of the key principles of REBT is that it is not the events themselves that cause us to feel a certain way, but rather our thoughts about those events. For example, if someone experiences a setback or disappointment, they may feel overwhelmed or defeated. However, by challenging their irrational beliefs about the situation and reframing it in a more positive light, they can reduce their negative feelings and avoid turning to substances as a coping mechanism.
Moving to self acceptance
REBT also emphasizes the importance of self-acceptance and self-compassion. Individuals who struggle with substance abuse often feel a great deal of shame and self-blame for their behavior. REBT helps individuals learn to accept themselves and their past mistakes without judgment, which can reduce the urge to turn to substances as a way to numb or escape these negative feelings.
Taking responsibility of your actions
Another important aspect of REBT is the emphasis on taking responsibility for one’s own behavior. Individuals who struggle with substance abuse often feel powerless to change their behavior or blame external factors for their addiction. REBT helps individuals recognize that they have the power to change their thoughts, feelings, and behaviors and that they are responsible for their own recovery.
Achieving small goals
Finally, REBT emphasizes the importance of setting achievable goals and celebrating small successes. Substance abuse can feel overwhelming, and individuals may feel like they have a long way to go in their recovery. REBT helps individuals break down their goals into smaller, more manageable steps and celebrate each accomplishment along the way. This can provide a sense of motivation and momentum that can help individuals stay on track in their recovery journey.
Advantages of REBT
There is empirical evidence that suggests that REBT is one of the effective therapeutic interventions when it comes to alcohol abuse. REBT is gaining popularity because can do the following:
- It can help a patient attain healthy coping mechanisms
- Underlying issues can be resolved
- Understanding and resolving triggers
- Helps those who are not inclined towards spirituality
- Individuals can feel more in control of their emotions.
- Self-sabotaging behaviors can be improved
- Helps understand that recovery is a lifelong process
It is important to remember that as effective as REBT or other CBT interventions are, there is no one-size-fit-all approach to addiction. Therefore, if you are a spiritually inclined person, AA meetings or 12-step rehabs may be helpful for you. For those, however, who cannot seem to benefit from spirituality-induced interventions, REBT can be more helpful.
If you are someone who struggles with substance use disorder, you should opt for an addiction center that offers comprehensive treatment. Usually, such a treatment includes medication-assisted treatment programs like Suboxone MAT coupled with CBT or group therapies to address addiction in the profound sense. Because addiction treatment has a wide spectrum, you can even opt for outpatient rehab if your addiction is not very severe.
Crux
In summary, Rational Emotive Therapy can be an effective tool in the treatment of substance abuse. By challenging irrational beliefs, developing healthy coping mechanisms, practicing self-acceptance, taking responsibility for one’s own behavior, and setting achievable goals, individuals can reduce their reliance on substances and develop a healthier, more fulfilling life. It is important to note that REBT is not a one-size-fits-all approach, and individuals may benefit from a combination of different therapies and interventions to support their recovery journey.