12 principles of effective treatment

 

NIDA: 12 Principles of Effective Addiction Treatment

 

 

If you are seeking treatment for addiction for yourself or a loved one, the National Institute on Drug Abuse has put together 12 principles for finding effective treatment. Consider the following before making your choice.

 

One size does not fit all. Find a treatment or facility that matches your own personal problems and needs.

 

Treatment should be accessible and readily available so the patient applicant doesn’t get lost.

 

Treatment must encompass the drug abuse, as well as physical and psychological issues and legal troubles.

 

Treatment should be flexible and grow and change with the patient’s recovery progress.

 

Adequate time should be given oneself for treatment. Three months is standard although some addicts may require more. Whether you succeed or not depends greatly on how much time you receive effective treatment.

 

Counseling, both group and individual is essential for learning new ways to cope with stress, learn constructive activities to replace drug using habits and learn to navigate interpersonal relationships.

 

Mental disorders often are misdiagnosed with addiction and should also be treated only after the addict is clean and sober for at least six months.

 

Medical detoxification is but a small part of the total treatment experience and is only the first stage in getting the addict on the road to recovery. It is useful; in decreasing symptoms of withdrawal.

 

Even if the patient does not voluntarily participate, treatment can be effective. Sanctions and enticements by relatives, employers and the criminal justice system can get an addict where he needs to be to get help.

 

Monitoring possible drug use during treatment encourages the patient to stay clean and should be a component of the program.

 

Assessments for HIV/AIDS, sexually transmitted and communicable diseases such as tuberculosis and hepatitis should be given. Counseling can help patients overcome high-risk behaviors.

 

Relapse is often an inevitable part of the recovery process and should not be viewed as a failure. On-going sessions and participation in self help programs after rehabilitation can increase the rate of success and recovery.

 

For help finding effective treatment for drug and alcohol abuse and to speak with an addiction conselor please call 1-877-744-3536