subject: Principles Of Successful Drug Addiction Treatment [print this page] There are no overnight cures for addictionThere are no overnight cures for addiction. Addiction treatment is an intensive, at times even arduous, process. But with the right course of treatment, and with the assistance of experienced counsellors, it is possible to treat addiction successfully, with positive long-term benefits.
In order to understand what the best treatments for addiction are, it helps to appreciate the nature of addiction. The destructive behaviours exhibited by addicts are damaging to addicts themselves and frequently harmful to those close to them. But such behaviour is a consequence of addiction rather than the root problem. That is why addiction treatment is not simply about stopping drug use.
Addictive behaviour indicates severe emotional difficulties that need to be dealt with in order to overcome addiction.
Of course, cessation is important, both because of the potential harm from the behaviour itself and as a first step towards treatment, but this does not in itself heal an addicts underlying emotional problems.
That is why counselling and other treatments are necessary components of successful addiction treatment.
The specific treatment approach may vary at different treatment centres, and different treatments may suit some people better than others, but in all cases the critical element of treatment is to work both on resolving the problems underlying the addiction and to create strategies to help addicts cope with daily life, without needing to resort to addictive behaviours.
A holistic approach to treating addiction
Counselling forms the core of addiction treatment. It provides ways to help addicts better cope with this, sometimes demanding, process and to encourage a generally more balanced and healthier lifestyle.
Exercise and a carefully managed diet, and even complementary activities like yoga, can help addicts find balance while working through the treatment process.
It is also often beneficial to enter the tranquillity and seclusion of a specialised treatment centre, away from the addicts everyday environment. This can provide the space to focus intently on the treatment process, and the inspiration to work through the programme.
It is important to appreciate that this seclusion is not a retreat from responsibility, but rather a chance to develop the skills and self-assurance necessary to return to society as a more productive and healthy member, ultimately benefiting both the addict and the addicts friends and family.
Individualised addiction therapy
While the fundamental nature of addiction treatment will remain the same, different individuals may require regimens that emphasise different approaches. An experienced counsellor can assess individuals and determine the optimum duration of treatment, and recommend individual or group therapy sessions, or a combination of both.
Individuals should learn how to cope with their feelings of fear and anger, as well as other feelings and emotions that they might have difficulty processing in order to express them healthily. While working through these difficult issues, addicts should be reassured that they are not alone, and that they have the support of their counsellors and peers. This environment of mutual support is in itself a source of encouragement.
Better managing their emotions, improving self-awareness and receiving support from peers and giving back support in return are some of the ways that professional addiction treatment centres empower addicts to reclaim their lives and cope in society.
