Lecture Notes: Frank's Story and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) for Substance Use Disorders

Introduction to Frank

• Frank's early life:
  • Young and strong after boot camp
  • Boxer on the all-army team, known as "Frank the Tank"
• Life after service:
  • Built homes for veterans
  • Scout leader
  • Strong family man (husband, father, grandfather)

Frank's Recent Struggles

• Physical and emotional challenges:
  • Frequent doctor visits
  • Self-critical thoughts about life decisions
• Coping with substances:
  • Increased alcohol consumption
  • Started smoking weed
• Impact on work:
  • Lack of focus and punctuality
  • Job loss after repeated tardiness
• Social consequences:
  • Spent more time drinking away from family
  • Concern from wife, Ruth

Intervention by Dr. Stevens

• Old Navy doctor notices Frank's changes
• Frank shares problems with work and substance use
• Dr. Stevens introduces Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT):
  • Proven treatment for substance use disorders
  • Focuses on thoughts and behaviors linked to substance use

Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) for Substance Use Disorders

• Core Concepts:
  • Negative/extreme thoughts influence substance use
  • Behaviors also play a role
  • Aimed at coping with difficult thoughts/feelings
• Key Skills Taught in CBT:
  1. Managing urges for substances
  2. Refusing substances
  3. Addressing related problems (negative emotions, problem-solving, social support)
• Treatment Structure:
  • Typically 12 sessions
  • Focus on skills to tackle underlying problems, not just cessation

Frank’s Decision

• Initially skeptical about therapy
• Interested in CBT's focus on skills and past success with veterans
• Agrees to meet with a therapist to pursue CBT

Conclusion

• Encouragement to learn more about CBT
• Resource for veterans: treatmentworksforvets.org