subject: The most effective treatment for alcohol and drug addiction [print this page] The most effective treatment for alcohol and drug addiction
Like any addiction, drug and alcohol addiction are symptoms of often complex underlying problems within the addicted individual.
Drug addicts or alcoholics do not need to be punished or issued with ultimatums. In fact, this is one of the worst ways to attempt to change a drug addict or alcoholic's behaviour. The first step in treating drug and alcohol addiction starts with the addict themselves; they need to acknowledge that they have a problem and that they have lost control over their lives.
Once this has occurred, the addict can seek help through counselling and treatment. The most effective treatment for alcohol and drug addiction can be found at an extended primary care rehab facility. Long-term residential care has been show to be the most effective method of treating addictions.
Dealing with the root of addiction
Treating alcohol or drug addiction should not only deal with the symptoms, that is the "using". Taking drugs or drinking alcohol are not the root of the problem, they are a symptom of the fundamental problem.
Drug and alcohol rehab centres are a good place for addicts to receive treatment, provided they offer individual therapy, group counselling and a daily programme of recovery so that the addict may remain abstinent when they leave.
What happens in rehab?
When a client enters rehab, they are helped to become aware of their behaviour. They are asked to have a look at the impact of this behaviour on themselves and others. This is done through written work, peer group feedback, interpersonal group therapy and one-to-one counselling.
In primary care facilities, clients are taught put to one side damaging or self-defeating behaviours, and to recognise, label and manage feelings in a healthier way. Each client should be individually assessed as the length of stay and method of treatment will vary depending on the nature of the addiction and the individual's own disposition. Long-term residential care is recommended and is endorsed by international research. Adequate lengths of treatment deliver the best recovery rates.
12 Step Programmes
It is important that clients are encouraged and supported in their journey to overcoming their addictions. Daily routines include group and individual counselling, working a 12-Step Programme as well as the incorporation of healthy diet and exercise.
A spiritual component (not religion) is a part of the 12-Step Programme. Recognising that there is a power greater than us is emphasised. This can be interpreted as the need to ask for help from outside ourselves.
The 12 Step recovery programme's main foundations are staying clean and sober one day at a time, attending meetings, working with a sponsor (a more experienced member of the fellowship), service, literature and trusting in a higher power.
Drug and alcohol abuse can be fatal if they are not addressed and will get progressively worse. Addiction counselling, therapy, healthy living and a programme of recovery are the best chance an alcoholic or drug addict has of overcoming their addiction.
