There has been a drug problem in America that has affected families across the country. Drug addiction comes at a great cost, and many people don't know how to help their addicted family members find recovery and hope. The approach to treating drug addiction has changed in major ways in the last decade, and it has given addicts new reasons to hope for a brighter future.
Treating Addiction as a Medical Problem
It used to be that rehab clinics would simply take someone off the drugs and keep them away from the drug that person was addicted to. This approach could be successful for some, but not medical-assisted treatment is considered to be one of the most effective ways to help an addict recover from serious addiction. Using medicine and treatment from a doctor during the process of coming off of a drug helps an addict recover physically from a withdrawal with less physical pain and discomfort. Some people become addicted to drugs because of physical pain, and so treating the body for problems is a big step for recovery.
Treating the Psychological Issues
Aside from the physical effects of addiction, there are the psychological effects most addicts deal with. Coming off of a drug can lead to problems with the brain, but often it's a problem with mental illness that leads a person to drugs. With dual-treatment clinics, addicts are able to get treatment for mental illness and for the psychological impact of coming off of drugs. This is done with medicine as well as counseling. Treating both the mind and the body for addiction is a way to treat the whole problem and get lasting results.
Education Helps the Recovery
Another reason modern drug addiction clinics have great results is that they provide patients with education. They help addicts better understand their health issues and what drives them to use drugs. Part of the education process is giving addicts the tools to overcome temptation by creating awareness and techniques to deal with stressful situations. They also teach patients how to support other addicts in overcoming their problems.
With better treatments now available, there is more hope for people who have loved ones going through an addiction. It's scary to watch someone you love hurt themselves with drugs. Now there are clinics that can help them recover and stay off drugs for good. With more education, recovered addicts can help others find their way to a better life as well.