Addiction
is a very complex disease affecting behavior and brain function, and it is
treatable. Abusing drugs alter the
brain’s structure and function and can persist even after a length of time
after stopping the drug. There is no one single treatment available. Depending
on the drug of choice, severity of the addiction and any other co-occurring
disorders the person has will determine the proper treatment for the best
outcome.
The
availability of treatment is critical because when an addict is ready for
treatment any delay could result in the individual not getting the treatment
necessary. Another important factor for effective treatment is remaining in
treatment for an adequate amount of time. Many individuals who are addicted
also have other mental health issues which could be the underlying cause
resulting in the addiction. Effective treatment will address all issues as
treating just the addiction is not enough.
Detoxification
from the drug of choice is just the first step in treatment. Anyone can stop
taking drugs, but the goal of treatment centers is to help the individual find
other healthy choices and ways to remain clean and sober, return to being a
productive member of their family, workplace and community. Achieving this goal
is very difficult, even with the help of treatment centers, experienced
specialists and addiction counselors. It takes a combination of these and the
willingness of the individual to want to achieve lifelong sobriety.
Behavioral
therapies are the most frequently used forms of treatment in Rehab
Places. These can include individual, group or family counseling.
Behavioral therapy helps to provide incentives for change and motivation to
stay abstinent, alternative methods to avoid relapse, and a constructive plan
and goals for the future. The
implementation of a relapse plan when discharged is a vital part of therapy.
Contacts with such groups as Narcotics and Alcoholics Anonymous are imperative
for the continued success of the individual.
Are drug treatment programs
worth the cost?
The answer is yes! Can you put a
price on a loved one’s life or your own?
The
end result, with a good treatment center, the addict’s desire to get and stay
clean and the support from friends and family, is priceless.
Substance
abuse programs can help lower the nation’s cost of $600 billion dollars
annually. For the individual and society, major savings can be from a decrease
in drug related accidents, criminal justice costs, crime, thefts and medical
costs.
