Because drug addiction affects so many areas of the individual’s life, many different types of drug addiction treatment are required. Treatment methods that address an individual’s specific situation and those with any other co-existing psychological, mental and physical problems can result in sustained recovery over time. There are three main types of drug addiction treatment, including behavioral therapy, medication treatment, and hospital care. Each of these programs offers an individual or group of individuals with addiction a chance to overcome their problem and become an effective member of society.
A doctor can prescribe medication to patients who are dealing with addiction from prescription medications. These medications are designed specifically to treat the psychological or physiological causes of drug abuse. Medication for drug addiction is not intended to replace or even mask the emotional, mental and physiological effects of drug abuse. It is not meant to be a replacement for professional counseling, support groups, or self-help groups. This type of treatment will only work if the addict is able to get back into a routine of work and family and if he or she is able to deal with the physical symptoms of the drug abuse on his or her own without assistance. Because this form of drug treatment may take several months to complete, the patient must have realistic expectations about how long it will take to fully recover.
Drug addiction can also be treated through behavioral therapy. In this process, the individual or group of patients will come together in a common setting and work through the issues that caused them to abuse drugs in the past. The goal of behavioral therapy is not to remove the drug from the person’s life but to help him or her overcome their drug addiction and move forward toward a drug-free lifestyle. This treatment is often recommended to people who need a short term intervention with the problem.
