Scientific Research Shows That Effective Addiction Treatment Works

Drug rehab is the medical procedure of psychotherapeutic or medical treatment for addiction to psychoactive substances like alcohol, prescription medications, and street drugs like cocaine, crack, methamphetamines or methadone. The objective of drug rehab programs is to help patients regain their health, cope with the disabling effects of addiction and improve their quality of life. Unfortunately, drug addiction is one of the most misunderstood mental disorders. Many people, especially those within the medical field, view addiction as a disease. Unfortunately, not everyone suffering from addiction gets treatment, which only compounds the problem.

According to the National Comorbidity Study, the majority of individuals with a substance abuse problem do not receive any form of addiction treatment because they view it as a mental illness. They fail to see that addiction is a brain-based disorder that can be treated and overcome if the proper tools and resources are in place. Drug rehab programs are designed to address all aspects of substance use and dependency. Treatment includes medically supervised detoxification, individual and group therapy, education, support for the family of the addict, and participation in 12-step meetings and activities.

Many people erroneously believe that you can’t get help until you enter a hospital or nursing home for substance abuse treatment. The fact is, there are many quality inpatient substance abuse rehab programs that offer evidence-based addiction treatment in New York City. Many of these treatment programs offer a detoxification process that allows for quick, safe transition into recovery. Patients are then offered the ability to have ongoing support throughout their recovery at the substance abuse rehab program.

The process of detox is just the first step in an addiction treatment plan. Patients are exposed to substances of abuse and asked to gradually increase the amount of time they are on a detoxification schedule. Symptoms such as cravings, insomnia, anxiety, restlessness, irritability, mood swings, and tremors may occur. When this happens, it is wise to consult your doctor. He or she will advise you on the appropriate medications to take when you stop using drugs.

Another component of comprehensive addiction treatment in New York City is individual and group counseling and therapy. Individuals are encouraged to share their feelings and experiences with others. They learn coping skills, how to avoid addictive behaviors, improve confidence and control, social skills, how to trust in themselves and others, and how to remain sober. Group therapy and individual counseling can also help patients recognize triggers that cause them to crave alcohol addiction, which helps them develop healthy coping skills.

To sum it up, there is much scientific research to support the fact that an effective treatment plan including both inpatient and outpatient services can produce lasting sobriety. You do not have to suffer with addiction for the rest of your life. You can start your journey to a new life free from alcoholism by choosing an addiction treatment plan that incorporates all of the above mentioned recommendations.