Gateway Foundation Aurora

Alcohol
Using alcohol as a coping mechanism, or drinking excessively throughout the week, signals an alcohol use disorder.

Co-Occurring Disorders
A person with multiple mental health diagnoses, such as addiction and depression, has co-occurring disorders also called dual diagnosis.

Drug Addiction
Drug addiction is the excessive and repetitive use of substances, despite harmful consequences to a person’s life, health, and relationships.

Evidence-Based
A combination of scientifically rooted therapies and treatments make up evidence-based care, defined by their measured and proven results.

Twelve Step
Incorporating spirituality, community, and responsibility, 12-Step philosophies prioritize the guidance of a Higher Power and a continuation of 12-Step practices.

Medical
Medical addiction treatment uses approved medications to manage withdrawals and cravings, and to treat contributing mental health conditions.

Seeking Safety
Not looking to the past, patients improve their present circumstances. They work toward safety without detailing traumatic events.

1-on-1 Counseling
Patient and therapist meet 1-on-1 to work through difficult emotions and behavioral challenges in a personal, private setting.

Mindfulness Therapy
This ancient practice can be mental, emotional, and even spiritual. In meditation, you focus your attention on the present moment without judgement.

Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT)
This cognitive behavioral therapy teaches patients to accept challenging feelings and make the appropriate changes to reach personal goals.

Twelve Step Facilitation
12-Step groups offer a framework for addiction recovery. Members commit to a higher power, recognize their issues, and support each other in the healing process.

Medication-Assisted Treatment
Combined with behavioral therapy, prescribed medications can enhance treatment by relieving withdrawal symptoms and focus patients on their recovery.

Family Therapy
Family therapy addresses group dynamics within a family system, with a focus on improving communication and interrupting unhealthy relationship patterns.

Motivational Interviewing
Based on the idea that motivation to change comes from within, providers use a conversational framework to discover personalized methods for change.

Prescription Drugs
It’s possible to abuse any drug, even prescribed ones. If you crave a medication, or regularly take it more than directed, you may have an addiction.

Co-Occurring Disorders
A person with multiple mental health diagnoses, such as addiction and depression, has co-occurring disorders also called dual diagnosis.

Cocaine
Cocaine is a stimulant with euphoric effects. Agitation, muscle ticks, psychosis, and heart issues are common symptoms of cocaine abuse.

Benzodiazepines
Benzodiazepines are prescribed to treat anxiety and sleep issues. They are highly habit forming, and their abuse can cause mood changes and poor judgement.

Ecstasy
Ecstasy is a stimulant that causes intense euphoria and heightened awareness. Abuse of this drug can trigger depression, insomnia, and memory problems.

Opioids
Opioids produce pain-relief and euphoria, which can lead to addiction. This class of drugs includes prescribed medication and the illegal drug heroin.

Codependency
Codependency is a pattern of emotional dependence and controlling behavior. It’s most common among people with addicted loved ones.

Methamphetamine
Methamphetamine, or meth, increases energy, agitation, and paranoia. Long-term use can result in severe physical and mental health issues.

Heroin
Heroin is a highly addictive and illegal opioid. It can cause insomnia, collapsed veins, heart issues, and additional mental health issues.

Depression
Symptoms of depression may include fatigue, a sense of numbness, and loss of interest in activities. This condition can range from mild to severe.

Drug Addiction
Drug addiction is the excessive and repetitive use of substances, despite harmful consequences to a person’s life, health, and relationships.

Alcohol
Using alcohol as a coping mechanism, or drinking excessively throughout the week, signals an alcohol use disorder.

Anxiety
Anxiety is a common mental health condition that can include excessive worry, panic attacks, physical tension, and increased blood pressure.

Stress
Stress is a natural reaction to challenges, and it can even help you adapt. However, chronic stress can cause physical and mental health issues.

Anger
Although anger itself isn’t a disorder, it can get out of hand. If this feeling interferes with your relationships and daily functioning, treatment can help.