Drug addiction is a chronic illness that causes people to lose control over the use of a substance, despite the worsening consequences of that use. It is characterized by compulsive or uncontrollable drug seeking and use, and can lead to long-lasting changes in the brain. Fortunately, there are many treatment options available to help individuals overcome their addiction. The first step in treating drug addiction is to address the immediate problems and start a treatment program.
This may involve seeking help from a drug addiction specialist, such as a licensed alcohol and drug counselor, or a psychiatrist or psychologist. It is also important to set goals and have something to look forward to, as this can be a powerful antidote to drug addiction. The best treatment approach for drug addiction may vary depending on the person's age and the drugs involved. Treatment may include behavioral therapy, counseling from a licensed alcohol and drug counselor, or medication.
It is important to stay away from prescription medications that may be abused, and only use them when needed and with extreme caution. Family therapy sessions are also an important part of treating drug addiction. These sessions are conducted by a professional therapist and involve family members discussing their experiences with the addict and how they can best support them in their recovery. Finally, it is important for family members of drug addicts to seek support from trusted friends and family, or from a peer support group.
Expressing what you're going through can be very cathartic, so don't hesitate to reach out for help. The latest results from the annual National Survey on Drug Use and Health reveal the most commonly used drugs, as well as statistics on how trends in drug use have changed over time. This information can be used to better understand the scope of drug addiction and how it affects individuals in the criminal justice system as well as those in the general population.
