Drug Addiction: Treatment Approaches to Drug Addiction

by Johannes P Osterhoff

Drug addiction is a chronic illness characterized by compulsive drug seeking and use, which persist despite devastating consequences. It is a disease of the brain resulting in a change of the structure and function of the brain. The pathway to drug addiction might begin with the voluntary or involuntary decision of taking drugs, but over a period of time the consumption of drugs become an addiction. This can lead to a loss of self-control and the ability to make sound decisions, due to structural changes in the brain.

Since drug addiction and abuse affect a person in different ways, stopping this behavior is extremely challenging. The treatment is not simply a matter of will power but requires long term care to achieve the ultimate goal of sustained self-restraint. Fortunately, there are treatments that can help people counter the disrupting effects of addiction and help them regain control of their lives.

Addiction is a complex issue, yet it is completely treatable. There is no single treatment that works for everyone. An individual’s treatment and long term care plan must be evaluated constantly and tailored to the individual, in order to meet his or her changing needs.

Effective treatment involves a combination of medication and behavioral therapy, which are important elements of an overall therapeutic process. The process begins with detoxification, which can be done by medication. This helps in suppressing the symptoms of withdrawal. Once the physical addiction is over, treatment and relapse prevention remedies can begin.

Though there are medications available for people addicted to different drugs, there are people who are addicted to multiple drugs and suffer from severe addiction problems; such people would require treatment for all the drugs they use.

However, behavioral treatments help patients to connect with others in the treatment process. Their outlook and conduct associated with drug abuse is modified, providing them with healthy life choices. These treatments can also augment the use of medications and help people stay in treatment for a longer period of time. Behavioral treatment encompasses a number of programs, including cognitive behavioral therapy, multidimensional therapy, and motivational incentives.

Drug addiction can be treated successfully. However, like with other chronic diseases, relapses are not uncommon. Though a relapse is not a sign of failure, the individual may require a return to treatment. A spectrum of care that includes a tailored treatment regimen dealing with all aspects of a person’s life, including medical and mental health services, is crucial in attaining and sustaining a drug-free lifestyle.

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