We were at our wits end! We were about to give up, when we were referred to the ASV rehab at home program. We also participated in the family solutions program which was a great help to us all. Thanks ASV.
ADDICTION SOLUTIONS VICTORIA
When talking about addiction, it is essential to reiterate that addiction is not a choice but a complex issue that can stem from various genetic, social, environmental and psychological factors.
Addiction does not solely impact the individual. Often, family members are the first to seek help for their loved ones. Family involvement plays a vital role for an individual with an addiction to regain their dignity and move into the right mindset for achieving and maintaining their lifelong recovery goals.
Addiction is a complex brain disease that affects millions of people around the world.
Compulsive behaviours are centred around the use of a substance or activity, despite its negative consequences.
Recovery from addiction is challenging but achievable with the right approach and the right support.
WHAT IS ADDICTION?
Addiction is a chronic disorder characterised by compulsive drug or alcohol use and other behaviours such as gambling or shopping.
It is a brain disease that changes how the brain functions and is associated with various physical and psychological symptoms. Biological, psychological, and environmental factors cause addiction. These factors include genetic predisposition, mental health issues, traumatic experiences, and environmental influences.
THE SCIENCE OF ADDICTION
Addiction is a complex brain disease that involves changes in the brain's circuitry. It is characterised by changes in the reward pathways responsible for regulating motivation and reward-seeking behaviour. The reward pathways are activated in response to pleasurable experiences, such as the use of drugs or alcohol. This activation causes the release of dopamine, a neurotransmitter associated with pleasure and reward. Over time, the brain becomes accustomed to this dopamine response, leading to addiction. In addition, addiction is related to changes in the brain's stress pathways, which regulate fear and anxiety. This can lead to increased stress and anxiety, further driving addiction.
COMPONENTS OF ADDICTION RECOVERY
Recovery is possible with the right approach. The essential components of addiction recovery include:
1. Professional Treatment: Professional treatment is essential for long-term recovery. Treatment can consist of various modalities, such as cognitive-behavioural therapy, medication, and support groups.
2. Lifestyle Modification: Addressing lifestyle factors can be beneficial for recovery. This can include eating a healthy diet, exercising regularly, getting enough sleep, and engaging in activities that promote mental and emotional well-being.
3. Social Support: A strong social support system is essential for recovery. This can include family, friends, and support groups.
4. Relapse Prevention: Relapse is common for those in recovery. It is vital to develop strategies to prevent relapse and recognise the warning signs of relapse.
Addiction is a complex brain disease that can have devastating consequences.
However, recovery is possible with the right approach. Professional treatment, lifestyle modification, social support, and relapse prevention are essential components of addiction recovery.
With the right approach, recovery from addiction is achievable.
"At ASV, we understand the significance of family support in an individual's healing journey. That is why our evidence-based treatment programs offer hope to those struggling with addiction and genuine opportunities for successful rehabilitation and transformation - a complete recovery that endures over time." - Paul Watkins - ASV drug and alcohol rehab Melbourne 2023.
Let us be part of your path towards freedom from addiction.
ALCOHOL AND DRUG REHAB PROGRAMS
Since 2015, ASV has been committed to offering meaningful change and hope for individuals and their families affected by substance use.
The organisation prioritises providing quality addiction treatment options facilitated by professionals who bring in-depth knowledge of the challenges that accompany such disorders. With a community board of governance dedicated to delivering effective solutions, ASV is determined to guide those seeking lasting recovery towards better health outcomes.
In addition, a primary focus of the founding board was to provide practical and emotional support for families of people experiencing challenges with addiction.
ASV's mission is to give everyone seeking change an authentic opportunity to achieve sustainable recovery from addiction.
Our dedicated board and recovery support team are highly committed to delivering evidence-based rehabilitation programs that recognise the possibility of sobriety in any situation - no matter how severe the problem.
Our individually tailored programs are designed specifically for each client's needs while utilising evidence-based approaches for success. We offer various services, from interventions and rehab at home to family support, relapse prevention strategies and long-term support. Our treatment programs are dedicated to fulfilling the vision of creating a drug and alcohol-free Victoria by providing access to personalised rehabilitation.
INTENSIVE OUTPATIENT DRUG & ALCOHOL REHAB MELBOURNE
Addiction often manifests as a pattern of unhealthy behaviours such as excessive alcohol and drug use, but individuals can take control of their lives and overcome it. With the proper support and evidence-based treatment methods, individuals can break addictive patterns and replace them with healthy habits and coping skills to build the life they want.
Recovery from addiction is a multi-step process that requires more than just addressing excessive drug and alcohol use.
Addiction Solutions Victoria Inc. (ASV) offers affordable and effective evidence-based programs for alcohol and drug rehab in Melbourne that are unlike any other in Australia.
The core of our treatment plans is based on research-backed methods developed by the esteemed Danya International Institute and endorsed by the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration in the USA.
Our signature rehab at-home program provides personalised, evidence-based addiction treatment through online, confidential services delivered directly to you in the comfort of your home. Participants in our rehab at-home programs receive the support and services they need while still having the flexibility to participate in their home and work lives.
Our ultimate goal is to assist individuals in making the internal emotional and psychological changes necessary to build healthy coping mechanisms and overcome addiction's toughest challenges.
"Established in 2015, ASV provides drug & alcohol rehab & family support programs across Melbourne & Victoria. Struggling with the effects of drug and alcohol abuse? ASV is here to answer your call. We provide comprehensive rehab and family support programs developed by Danya International (Hazelden Betty Ford Clinic). I am incredibly pleased with the efficacy of our 28-day intensive outpatient program for drug and alcohol addiction. This program has proven to be highly effective in helping individuals struggling with addiction to make positive changes in their lives. Our program consists of the use of evidence-based therapies such as cognitive-behavioural therapy and motivational interviewing. The results of our program have been impressive. Overall, I am incredibly proud of our program's effectiveness, and I look forward to continuing to help individuals struggling with addiction achieve long-term sobriety and wellness." - Jason Bowman - ASV drug and alcohol services, Melbourne rehab 2023.
FAQs
What is addiction, and how does it affect the brain?
Addiction is a chronic, relapsing brain disease characterised by compulsive drug seeking and use despite negative, harmful consequences. As noted by the Australian Government Department of Health, addiction leads to chemical changes in the brain that reinforce the cycle of dependence and affect the brain’s reward system. This reduces its sensitivity to everyday pleasures and impairs areas responsible for judgement, memory and self-control, making it harder to resist the substance over time and heightening the risk of long-term mental and physical harm.
How can family members support a loved one with addiction?
Helping a loved one through addiction starts with open, honest conversations rooted in care, not judgement. Set gentle but clear boundaries to protect your wellbeing and to create a safe space for healing. Encourage professional help, but do so with the understanding that addiction is a complex health issue, not a personal failing.
We know supporting someone through addiction can be challenging, both emotionally and practically, but you don’t have to do it alone. At ASV, we believe family involvement is key to long-term recovery, and our Family Support Program provides counselling, boundary-setting strategies and drug and alcohol addiction solutions to help families navigate this disease together.
What are the main components of addiction recovery?
Addiction rehab and recovery is a multifaceted process. According to the National Institute on Drug Abuse, the key components include:
- Abstinence — Often considered the foundation of recovery, abstinence means completely refraining from the substance associated with the addiction.
- Relapse prevention — This involves recognising and managing triggers, developing new coping strategies and building routines that support long-term recovery.
- Professional treatment — Evidence-based therapies like cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT), motivational interviewing (MI) and 12-step programs play a crucial role in recovery and are core elements of our Melbourne addiction treatment.
- Support systems — Lasting recovery requires connection. Strong networks of family, friends and professional guidance provide the emotional backbone of the healing process.
- Medication — In some cases, medication can help manage withdrawal symptoms and reduce relapse risk.
What strategies can help prevent relapse?
According to the Alcohol and Drug Foundation, viable options to prevent relapse may include:
- Identifying personal triggers such as stress, social environments or emotional states and developing plans to manage them.
- Creating healthy routines that include regular sleep, exercise and balanced nutrition.
- Building coping skills to manage cravings and navigate high-risk situations.
- Seeking support from professionals, peers or family to stay connected and accountable.
- Practising self-compassion, understanding that setbacks can be part of the process and learning how to respond constructively
At ASV, we integrate these strategies into counselling sessions, lifestyle planning and aftercare support. Our addiction rehab in Australia empowers individuals with the confidence and skills they need to prevent relapse and maintain lasting recovery.
How does ASV support individuals struggling with addiction?
At ASV, we provide flexible, non-residential drug and alcohol rehab in Melbourne through our Rehab at Home Program. We also offer personalised referrals to trusted residential rehabilitation centres and holistic support through our Family Solutions Program.
Rest assured that our team uses evidence-based therapies to address the root causes of addiction, helping individuals and families across Victoria find lasting recovery. We can help you take that first step — contact us today to learn more about rehabilitation in Victoria.